San Jose, CA vs Aurora, IL: 254 vs 100

$2,617/mo ↑ 70%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 41%

$141,565/yr ↑ 57%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 36%

$1,187,800 ↑ 356%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 78%

$2,775/mo ↑ 74%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 43%

990,054

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Jose, CA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 254 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,082/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $12,984/year.

Median household income is $51,456/year higher in San Jose. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Jose is $1,187,800 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Jose vs Aurora — common questions

Is San Jose or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 254 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Jose and Aurora?

Median rent in San Jose is $2,617/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $1,082/month.

Which city has higher income, San Jose or Aurora?

Median household income is $141,565 in San Jose and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $51,456/year higher in San Jose.

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 Jose or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. San Jose has a cost index of 254 with median rent of $2,617/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 Jose, CA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

San Jose

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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