San Francisco, CA vs Aurora, IL: 267 vs 100

$2,419/mo ↑ 58%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 37%

$141,446/yr ↑ 57%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 36%

$1,380,500 ↑ 430%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 81%

$2,620/mo ↑ 65%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 39%

836,321

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $884/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $10,608/year.

Median household income is $51,337/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Aurora — common questions

Is San Francisco or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Aurora?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $884/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Aurora?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $51,337/year higher in San Francisco.

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 Francisco or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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 Francisco, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

San Francisco

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons