Worcester, MA vs Aurora, IL: 104 vs 100

$1,415/mo ↓ 8%

Median Rent

$1,535/mo ↑ 8%

$67,544/yr ↓ 25%

Median Income

$90,109/yr ↑ 33%

$339,500 ↑ 30%

Home Value

$260,400 ↓ 23%

$1,521/mo ↓ 4%

Owner Costs

$1,591/mo ↑ 5%

205,501

Population

179,867

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Worcester, MA and Aurora, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 104 and 100 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $120/month cheaper in Worcester, saving renters about $1,440/year.

Median household income is $22,565/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Worcester is $339,500 compared to $260,400 in Aurora.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Worcester vs Aurora — common questions

Is Worcester or Aurora cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Aurora is cheaper to live in with an index of 100 compared to 104 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Worcester and Aurora?

Median rent in Worcester is $1,415/month and in Aurora it's $1,535/month — a difference of $120/month.

Which city has higher income, Worcester or Aurora?

Median household income is $67,544 in Worcester and $90,109 in Aurora. Median household income is $22,565/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Massachusetts and Illinois?

Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Worcester or Aurora?

It depends on your priorities. Worcester has a cost index of 104 with median rent of $1,415/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: Worcester, MA vs Aurora, IL (2026)

Worcester

Aurora

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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