Riverside, CA vs Aurora, IL: 144 vs 100

$1,812/mo ↑ 18%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 15%

$88,575/yr ↓ 2%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 2%

$542,100 ↑ 108%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 52%

$1,880/mo ↑ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 15%

316,241

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Riverside, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 144 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $277/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $3,324/year.

Median household income is $1,534/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Riverside is $542,100 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Riverside vs Aurora — common questions

Is Riverside or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 144 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Riverside and Aurora?

Median rent in Riverside is $1,812/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $277/month.

Which city has higher income, Riverside or Aurora?

Median household income is $88,575 in Riverside and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $1,534/year higher in Aurora.

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 Riverside or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Riverside has a cost index of 144 with median rent of $1,812/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: Riverside, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Riverside

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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