Pittsburgh, PA vs Aurora, IL: 76 vs 100

$1,221/mo ↓ 20%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 26%

$64,137/yr ↓ 29%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 40%

$193,200 ↓ 26%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 35%

$1,136/mo ↓ 29%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 40%

303,620

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $314/month cheaper in Pittsburgh, saving renters about $3,768/year.

Median household income is $25,972/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Aurora — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Aurora?

Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $314/month.

Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Aurora?

Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $25,972/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 Pittsburgh or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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: Pittsburgh, PA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Pittsburgh

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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