Winston-Salem, NC vs Aurora, IL: 71 vs 100

$1,033/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 49%

$57,673/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 56%

$208,200 ↓ 20%

Home Value

$260,400 ↑ 25%

$1,040/mo ↓ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 53%

250,887

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Winston-Salem, NC and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 71 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $502/month cheaper in Winston-Salem, saving renters about $6,024/year.

Median household income is $32,436/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Winston-Salem is $208,200 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

North Carolina has a lower income tax rate, making Winston-Salem slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Winston-Salem vs Aurora — common questions

Is Winston-Salem or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Winston-Salem is cheaper to live in with an index of 71 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Winston-Salem and Aurora?

Median rent in Winston-Salem is $1,033/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $502/month.

Which city has higher income, Winston-Salem or Aurora?

Median household income is $57,673 in Winston-Salem and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $32,436/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between North Carolina and Illinois?

North Carolina has 4.5% income tax, 4.75% sales tax, and 0.8% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Winston-Salem or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Winston-Salem has a cost index of 71 with median rent of $1,033/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: Winston-Salem, NC vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Winston-Salem

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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