Minneapolis, MN vs Aurora, IL: 102 vs 100

$1,329/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 16%

$80,269/yr ↓ 11%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 12%

$345,600 ↑ 33%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 25%

$1,513/mo ↓ 5%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 5%

426,845

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Minneapolis, MN and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 102 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $206/month cheaper in Minneapolis, saving renters about $2,472/year.

Median household income is $9,840/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Minneapolis is $345,600 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Minneapolis vs Aurora — common questions

Is Minneapolis or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 102 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Minneapolis and Aurora?

Median rent in Minneapolis is $1,329/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $206/month.

Which city has higher income, Minneapolis or Aurora?

Median household income is $80,269 in Minneapolis and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $9,840/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Minnesota and Illinois?

Minnesota has 9.85% income tax, 6.875% sales tax, and 1.11% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Minneapolis or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Minneapolis has a cost index of 102 with median rent of $1,329/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: Minneapolis, MN vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Minneapolis

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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