Wichita, KS vs Aurora, IL: 65 vs 100

$960/mo ↓ 37%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 60%

$63,072/yr ↓ 30%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 43%

$179,500 ↓ 31%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 45%

$994/mo ↓ 38%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 60%

396,488

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Wichita, KS and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 65 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $575/month cheaper in Wichita, saving renters about $6,900/year.

Median household income is $27,037/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Wichita is $179,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Wichita vs Aurora — common questions

Is Wichita or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Wichita is cheaper to live in with an index of 65 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Wichita and Aurora?

Median rent in Wichita is $960/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $575/month.

Which city has higher income, Wichita or Aurora?

Median household income is $63,072 in Wichita and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $27,037/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Kansas and Illinois?

Kansas has 5.7% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 1.41% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Wichita or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Wichita has a cost index of 65 with median rent of $960/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: Wichita, KS vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Wichita

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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