Wheaton, IL vs. Aurora, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Relocating to the Chicago suburbs? This Wheaton vs Aurora cost of living comparison will help you choose the city that fits your budget and lifestyle in 2025. We’ll break down housing, utilities, groceries, and more to determine which is more affordable.
Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Wheaton and Aurora stack up for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Wheaton | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,600 | $1,400 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Aurora. Rent and home prices tend to be 10-20% lower in Aurora compared to Wheaton.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important monthly expense. In the Chicago area, expect to pay more for heating in the winter months. Typical utility costs for a 2BR apartment:
- Wheaton: $180/month
- Aurora: $160/month
🏆 Winner: Aurora has slightly lower utility bills on average, thanks in part to its renewable energy aggregation program.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
For a family of four, grocery costs in Wheaton and Aurora are fairly comparable – budget around $1,000/month. Restaurant prices are also similar, though Aurora has a few more budget-friendly chains.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly equal between the two cities.
Taxes and Fees
Illinois has the second highest property taxes in the U.S. In Wheaton, the median annual property tax is around $7,800 (1.73% rate). Aurora’s median is about $5,600 per year (1.6% rate).
🏆 Winner: Aurora. The typical homeowner pays around $2,200 less per year in Aurora compared to Wheaton.
Cost of Living in Wheaton vs Aurora
| Expense Category | Wheaton | Aurora |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $3,750 | $2,900 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $1,000 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $500 | $450 |
| Taxes (Property) | $650 | $470 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $6,580 | $5,480 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Aurora offers a lower cost of living overall, Wheaton has some lifestyle advantages:
- Shorter commute to Chicago (30 mins vs 45-60 from Aurora)
- More walkable downtown area
- Lower crime rates
However, Aurora’s housing is around 20% cheaper on average. It also offers more space and a small-town feel that some prefer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Wheaton more affordable than Aurora?
No, Aurora has a lower overall cost of living, primarily due to cheaper housing. See our cost of living guide for Wheaton.
Which city has lower rent?
Aurora’s rental prices are typically 10-15% lower than Wheaton. A 2BR apartment averages $1,400/month in Aurora compared to $1,600 in Wheaton.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Aurora’s median home price is around $350,000, while Wheaton’s is $450,000. Property taxes are also about 20% lower in Aurora.
Conclusion
For most households, Aurora offers a meaningfully lower cost of living than Wheaton – around $1,100 less per month for a typical family. The biggest savings are in housing, with lower rent, purchase prices, and property taxes.
However, Wheaton can still be a great fit for those prioritizing a convenient Chicago commute or highly walkable neighborhoods. As always, your specific housing needs and lifestyle preferences should guide your decision.
Considering other Chicago suburbs? Check out our monthly budget examples for Wheaton and other Illinois cities to compare.