Seattle, WA vs Aurora, IL: 196 vs 100

$1,998/mo ↑ 30%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 23%

$121,984/yr ↑ 35%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↓ 26%

$912,100 ↑ 250%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 71%

$2,220/mo ↑ 40%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 28%

741,440

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Seattle, WA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 196 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $463/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $5,556/year.

Median household income is $31,875/year higher in Seattle. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Seattle is $912,100 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Seattle residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Seattle vs Aurora — common questions

Is Seattle or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 196 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Seattle and Aurora?

Median rent in Seattle is $1,998/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $463/month.

Which city has higher income, Seattle or Aurora?

Median household income is $121,984 in Seattle and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $31,875/year higher in Seattle.

How do taxes compare between Washington and Illinois?

Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Seattle or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Seattle has a cost index of 196 with median rent of $1,998/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: Seattle, WA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Seattle

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons