Mesa, AZ vs Aurora, IL: 107 vs 100

$1,478/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 4%

$78,779/yr ↓ 13%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 14%

$364,300 ↑ 40%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 29%

$1,404/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 13%

507,478

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Mesa, AZ and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 107 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $57/month cheaper in Mesa, saving renters about $684/year.

Median household income is $11,330/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Mesa is $364,300 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Mesa slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Mesa vs Aurora — common questions

Is Mesa or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 107 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Mesa and Aurora?

Median rent in Mesa is $1,478/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $57/month.

Which city has higher income, Mesa or Aurora?

Median household income is $78,779 in Mesa and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $11,330/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Illinois?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Mesa or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Mesa has a cost index of 107 with median rent of $1,478/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: Mesa, AZ vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Mesa

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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