Living comfortably in Aurora, IL in 2025 requires an average gross monthly income of around $4,500 for a single person or $6,200 for a couple, according to recent estimates. Here’s a closer look at the major expenses that make up Aurora’s cost of living.
Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in Aurora’s cost of living. The median rent for a 2-bedroom apartment in Aurora is currently $1,450 per month. For those looking to purchase a home, a typical 3-bedroom house has a median mortgage payment of $1,850 per month.
HOA fees are relatively common in Aurora, especially for condos and townhomes in newer developments. These can range from $150-400 per month. Older neighborhoods tend to have lower or no HOA fees.
- Median 2BR apartment rent: $1,450/month
- Median 3BR house mortgage: $1,850/month
- Typical HOA fees: $150-400/month (if applicable)
Utilities and Energy Bills
Utility costs in Aurora are slightly higher than the national average. Expect to pay around $120 per month for electricity for a 2-bedroom apartment. Gas bills average $60 per month. Water, sewer, and trash are often included in apartment rents but can add $50-75 per month otherwise.
Keep in mind that electricity bills tend to spike in the summer months due to air conditioning costs. In July and August, cooling can easily double your usual electric bill.
| Utility | Typical Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $120 |
| Gas | $60 |
| Water/Sewer/Trash | $50-75 |
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Groceries in Aurora cost about $350 per month for a single person following a moderate diet. This assumes mostly cooking at home. Dining out will add to this total quickly, with a typical fast casual meal running $12-18 per person.
Don’t forget to factor in household goods and toiletries, which can easily add another $50-100 to your monthly shopping bill. For a couple, a realistic total is $800-1000 per month for all food and household items.
Taxes and Hidden Fees
Aurora’s property tax rate is 0.55%, which is included in the typical mortgage estimates above. However, there are other taxes and fees to be aware of:
- Sales tax in Aurora is 8.25%
- Vehicle registration is $151 per year
- Metra monthly train pass to Chicago: $116.75
- License plate sticker for passenger car: $151
Summary Monthly Budget
| Expense Category | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (rent/mortgage) | $1,450 | $1,850 | $2,200 |
| Utilities | $250 | $300 | $450 |
| Groceries & Dining Out | $500 | $900 | $1,400 |
| Transportation | $200 | $300 | $500 |
| Healthcare | $250 | $500 | $800 |
| Other Necessities | $400 | $600 | $1,000 |
| Monthly Total (Gross) | $4,500 | $6,200 | $8,500 |
Note: All figures are gross monthly income (pre-tax) estimates. Actual budgets may vary.
Lifestyle Considerations
Aurora offers a mix of urban and suburban amenities. Commute times to major employment centers like Naperville and Oak Brook average 30-40 minutes. Downtown Chicago is accessible via the Metra train in about an hour.
Newer homes and luxury apartments are concentrated on the east and north sides of Aurora, while the west side tends to have older, more affordable housing. Access to parks, shopping, and highly rated schools is good throughout the city.
Key tradeoffs to consider are affordability vs. commute times, and newer construction vs. more established neighborhoods. A $1,500 rent budget opens up many options, while a $2,000+ mortgage expands choices significantly, especially for newer homes with more space and amenities.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What salary do you need to live comfortably in Aurora?
A gross income of $54,000 ($4,500/month) allows a single person to live comfortably in Aurora. For a couple, aim for at least $74,000 ($6,200/month) to afford a typical 2-bedroom apartment or starter home. -
Is Aurora cheaper than Chicago?
Yes, Aurora’s housing costs are about 40% lower than Chicago on average. Groceries and utilities are also 10-20% less expensive, making Aurora significantly more affordable overall. -
What is a good hourly wage in Aurora?
With a living wage of $17.50 per hour, an individual working full-time can earn enough to get by in Aurora. However, a household with children will likely need $25+ per hour to live comfortably. -
How much is the average electric bill in Aurora?
Expect to pay around $120 per month for electricity in a 2-bedroom apartment. This can spike to $200+ in the summer months due to air conditioning costs. -
What is the sales tax rate in Aurora?
The sales tax in Aurora is 8.25% as of 2025. This includes both state and local taxes on most goods and services. -
Is Aurora a good place to retire?
Aurora can be a good retirement spot for those seeking a mix of affordability and access to amenities. However, harsh winters and relatively high taxes are important factors to consider. -
What is the median home price in Aurora?
As of 2025, the median home price in Aurora is $325,000. This typically buys a 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom house, though exact sizes and amenities vary by neighborhood.