Lincoln, NE vs Aurora, IL: 77 vs 100

$1,045/mo ↓ 32%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 47%

$69,991/yr ↓ 22%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 29%

$248,200 ↓ 5%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 5%

$1,140/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 40%

291,932

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lincoln, NE and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 77 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $490/month cheaper in Lincoln, saving renters about $5,880/year.

Median household income is $20,118/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lincoln is $248,200 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Aurora slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lincoln vs Aurora — common questions

Is Lincoln or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lincoln is cheaper to live in with an index of 77 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lincoln and Aurora?

Median rent in Lincoln is $1,045/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $490/month.

Which city has higher income, Lincoln or Aurora?

Median household income is $69,991 in Lincoln and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $20,118/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Nebraska and Illinois?

Nebraska has 6.64% income tax, 5.5% sales tax, and 1.73% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Lincoln or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Lincoln has a cost index of 77 with median rent of $1,045/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: Lincoln, NE vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Lincoln

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons