Phoenix, AZ vs Aurora, IL: 109 vs 100

$1,458/mo ↓ 5%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 5%

$77,041/yr ↓ 15%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 17%

$381,900 ↑ 47%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 32%

$1,430/mo ↓ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 11%

1,624,832

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Phoenix, AZ and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 109 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $77/month cheaper in Phoenix, saving renters about $924/year.

Median household income is $13,068/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Phoenix is $381,900 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Arizona has a lower income tax rate, making Phoenix slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Phoenix vs Aurora — common questions

Is Phoenix or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 109 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Phoenix and Aurora?

Median rent in Phoenix is $1,458/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $77/month.

Which city has higher income, Phoenix or Aurora?

Median household income is $77,041 in Phoenix and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $13,068/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Arizona and Illinois?

Arizona has 2.5% income tax, 5.6% sales tax, and 0.62% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Phoenix or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Phoenix has a cost index of 109 with median rent of $1,458/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: Phoenix, AZ vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Phoenix

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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