Is Aurora or Chicago more affordable?
Aurora has a median rent of $1,650/month, while Chicago is $1,209/month. Chicago is more affordable for renters.
City comparison
Aurora, CO vs Chicago, IL
Side-by-side comparison of cost of living, taxes, climate, and quality of life between Aurora and Chicago.
2
Aurora wins
of 5 metrics
tracked
3
Chicago wins
CO
Aurora
vs
IL
Chicago
Overview
388,568
Population
2,742,119
$60,817
Median Income
+8.2%$65,781✓
Cost of Living
$1,650
Median Rent / mo
-26.7%$1,209✓
$440,000
Median Home Price
-36.9%$277,600✓
33%
Rent-to-Income %
22%
Taxes
4.40%✓
State Income Tax
4.95%
8.00%
Local Tax Rate
0.00%
Climate & Weather
65°F
Avg High Temp
54.12°F
38°F
Avg Low Temp
49.03°F
300 days✓
Sunny Days / Year
N/A
15"
Annual Rainfall
N/A
Who should choose
Aurora, CO
Aurora is a city in Colorado with a population of 388,568.
Read full Aurora guide →Who should choose
Chicago, IL
Chicago is a city in Illinois with a population of 2,742,119.
Read full Chicago guide →Aurora vs Chicago — Common Questions
Which city has lower taxes — Aurora or Chicago?
Colorado has a 4.40% state income tax. Illinois has a 4.95% state income tax. Aurora wins on state income tax.
What is the weather difference between Aurora and Chicago?
Aurora gets 300 sunny days/year. Avg high in Aurora: 65°F. Avg high in Chicago: 54.12°F
Which city is better for families — Aurora or Chicago?
Aurora. Chicago. The right choice depends on your priorities — income, affordability, taxes, and climate all play a role.
More city comparisons
Data sourced from U.S. Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, and NOAA. Green values indicate a better outcome for that metric.