Lexington, KY vs Aurora, IL: 82 vs 100

$1,101/mo ↓ 28%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 39%

$67,631/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 33%

$272,100 ↑ 4%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 4%

$1,160/mo ↓ 27%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 37%

321,122

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $434/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $5,208/year.

Median household income is $22,478/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Aurora — common questions

Is Lexington or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Aurora?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $434/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Aurora?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $22,478/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Illinois?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/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: Lexington, KY vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Lexington

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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