San Diego, CA vs Aurora, IL: 197 vs 100

$2,223/mo ↑ 45%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 31%

$104,321/yr ↑ 16%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 14%

$848,500 ↑ 226%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 69%

$2,308/mo ↑ 45%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 31%

1,385,061

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Diego, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 197 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $688/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $8,256/year.

Median household income is $14,212/year higher in San Diego. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Diego is $848,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Diego vs Aurora — common questions

Is San Diego or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 197 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Diego and Aurora?

Median rent in San Diego is $2,223/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $688/month.

Which city has higher income, San Diego or Aurora?

Median household income is $104,321 in San Diego and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $14,212/year higher in San Diego.

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 San Diego or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. San Diego has a cost index of 197 with median rent of $2,223/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: San Diego, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

San Diego

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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