Milwaukee, WI vs Aurora, IL: 67 vs 100

$1,033/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 49%

$51,888/yr ↓ 42%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 74%

$172,000 ↓ 34%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 51%

$1,082/mo ↓ 32%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 47%

569,756

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Milwaukee, WI and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 67 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $502/month cheaper in Milwaukee, saving renters about $6,024/year.

Median household income is $38,221/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Milwaukee is $172,000 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Milwaukee vs Aurora — common questions

Is Milwaukee or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Milwaukee is cheaper to live in with an index of 67 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Milwaukee and Aurora?

Median rent in Milwaukee is $1,033/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $502/month.

Which city has higher income, Milwaukee or Aurora?

Median household income is $51,888 in Milwaukee and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $38,221/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 Milwaukee or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Milwaukee has a cost index of 67 with median rent of $1,033/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: Milwaukee, WI vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Milwaukee

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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