Oakland, CA vs Aurora, IL: 195 vs 100

$1,917/mo ↑ 25%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 20%

$97,369/yr ↑ 8%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 7%

$924,700 ↑ 255%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 72%

$2,164/mo ↑ 36%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 26%

438,072

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Oakland, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 195 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $382/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $4,584/year.

Median household income is $7,260/year higher in Oakland. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Oakland is $924,700 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Oakland vs Aurora — common questions

Is Oakland or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 195 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Oakland and Aurora?

Median rent in Oakland is $1,917/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $382/month.

Which city has higher income, Oakland or Aurora?

Median household income is $97,369 in Oakland and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $7,260/year higher in Oakland.

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 Oakland or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Oakland has a cost index of 195 with median rent of $1,917/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: Oakland, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Oakland

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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