Modesto, CA vs Aurora, IL: 120 vs 100

$1,609/mo ↑ 5%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 5%

$77,899/yr ↓ 14%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 16%

$415,600 ↑ 60%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 37%

$1,613/mo ↑ 1%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 1%

218,614

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Modesto, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 120 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $74/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $888/year.

Median household income is $12,210/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Modesto is $415,600 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Modesto vs Aurora — common questions

Is Modesto or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 120 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Modesto and Aurora?

Median rent in Modesto is $1,609/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $74/month.

Which city has higher income, Modesto or Aurora?

Median household income is $77,899 in Modesto and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $12,210/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between California and Illinois?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Modesto or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Modesto has a cost index of 120 with median rent of $1,609/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: Modesto, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Modesto

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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