Madison, WI vs Aurora, IL: 103 vs 100

$1,364/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 13%

$76,983/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 17%

$346,900 ↑ 33%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 25%

$1,476/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 8%

275,568

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Madison, WI and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 103 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $171/month cheaper in Madison, saving renters about $2,052/year.

Median household income is $13,126/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Madison is $346,900 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Madison vs Aurora — common questions

Is Madison or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 103 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Madison and Aurora?

Median rent in Madison is $1,364/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $171/month.

Which city has higher income, Madison or Aurora?

Median household income is $76,983 in Madison and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $13,126/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Wisconsin and Illinois?

Wisconsin has 7.65% income tax, 5.0% sales tax, and 1.61% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Madison or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Madison has a cost index of 103 with median rent of $1,364/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: Madison, WI vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Madison

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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