Tacoma, WA vs Aurora, IL: 126 vs 100

$1,597/mo ↑ 4%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↓ 4%

$83,857/yr ↓ 7%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 7%

$454,600 ↑ 75%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 43%

$1,747/mo ↑ 10%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↓ 9%

220,482

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Tacoma, WA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 126 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $62/month cheaper in Aurora, saving renters about $744/year.

Median household income is $6,252/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Tacoma is $454,600 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Tacoma vs Aurora — common questions

Is Tacoma or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 126 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Tacoma and Aurora?

Median rent in Tacoma is $1,597/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $62/month.

Which city has higher income, Tacoma or Aurora?

Median household income is $83,857 in Tacoma and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $6,252/year higher in Aurora.

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 Tacoma or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Tacoma has a cost index of 126 with median rent of $1,597/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: Tacoma, WA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Tacoma

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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