Philadelphia, PA vs Aurora, IL: 85 vs 100

$1,323/mo ↓ 14%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 16%

$60,698/yr ↓ 33%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 48%

$232,400 ↓ 11%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 12%

$1,233/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 29%

1,582,432

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $212/month cheaper in Philadelphia, saving renters about $2,544/year.

Median household income is $29,411/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Aurora — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Aurora?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $212/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Aurora?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $29,411/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Illinois?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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: Philadelphia, PA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Philadelphia

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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