Raleigh, NC vs Aurora, IL: 110 vs 100

$1,468/mo ↓ 4%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 5%

$82,424/yr ↓ 9%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 9%

$377,800 ↑ 45%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 31%

$1,487/mo ↓ 7%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 7%

470,763

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Raleigh, NC and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 110 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $67/month cheaper in Raleigh, saving renters about $804/year.

Median household income is $7,685/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Raleigh is $377,800 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Raleigh slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Raleigh vs Aurora — common questions

Is Raleigh or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 110 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Raleigh and Aurora?

Median rent in Raleigh is $1,468/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $67/month.

Which city has higher income, Raleigh or Aurora?

Median household income is $82,424 in Raleigh and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $7,685/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Illinois?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Raleigh or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Raleigh has a cost index of 110 with median rent of $1,468/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: Raleigh, NC vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Raleigh

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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