Knoxville, TN vs Aurora, IL: 74 vs 100

$1,116/mo ↓ 27%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 38%

$50,994/yr ↓ 43%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 77%

$214,000 ↓ 18%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 22%

$1,075/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 48%

193,721

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Knoxville, TN and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 74 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $419/month cheaper in Knoxville, saving renters about $5,028/year.

Median household income is $39,115/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Knoxville is $214,000 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Tennessee has no state income tax, giving Knoxville residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Knoxville vs Aurora — common questions

Is Knoxville or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Knoxville is cheaper to live in with an index of 74 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Knoxville and Aurora?

Median rent in Knoxville is $1,116/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $419/month.

Which city has higher income, Knoxville or Aurora?

Median household income is $50,994 in Knoxville and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $39,115/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Tennessee and Illinois?

Tennessee has 0% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 0.64% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Knoxville or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Knoxville has a cost index of 74 with median rent of $1,116/mo, while Aurora has a cost index of 100 with rent of $1,535/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Knoxville, TN vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Knoxville

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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