Aurora, IL
Population 179,867 · Illinois
About Aurora, IL
Aurora is a major city located in Illinois with a population of 179,867 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $90,109 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.2 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Aurora features a median home value of $260,400, which is 6% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Aurora in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,535, 32% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 63,492 total housing units, 67% are owner-occupied (40,356 units) and 33% are renter-occupied (20,040 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Aurora shows an unemployment rate of 5.9%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 9.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Aurora have an average one-way commute time of 28 minutes.
Education & Demographics
37.2% of Aurora residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 36.8% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.4% Black or African American, and 3.2% Asian residents, with 25.7% of the population being foreign-born.
How Aurora Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Aurora, IL
Compared to national averages, Aurora has a median household income of $90,109 (20% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $260,400, which is 6% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,535 is 32% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Aurora's income is 20% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 57% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Aurora, IL?
Aurora offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $90,109, well above the national average, and a well-educated community where 37.2% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, and a low poverty rate of 9.8%, better than the national average.
Aurora has a population of 179,867 with a median age of 35.2 years. Compare Aurora with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Aurora
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joliet | 149,785 | $88,026 | $248,600 | Compare |
| Naperville | 149,424 | $150,937 | $509,900 | Compare |
| Rockford | 147,649 | $53,328 | $120,900 | Compare |
| Elgin | 114,106 | $88,316 | $252,400 | Compare |
| Springfield | 113,714 | $65,537 | $155,200 | Compare |
| Peoria | 112,126 | $58,716 | $149,500 | Compare |
| Waukegan | 88,919 | $70,578 | $177,600 | Compare |
| Champaign | 88,822 | $57,544 | $199,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Aurora With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Aurora
What is the population of Aurora, IL?
The population of Aurora, IL is 179,867 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Aurora?
The median household income in Aurora, IL is $90,109 per year, which is 20% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Aurora?
The median home value in Aurora, IL is $260,400, which is 6% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Aurora?
The median monthly rent in Aurora, IL is $1,535, which is 32% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Aurora?
The unemployment rate in Aurora, IL is 5.9%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Aurora, IL a good place to live?
Aurora offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 179,867 and a median age of 35.2, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Aurora, IL?
37.2% of residents in Aurora aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This above-average educational attainment often reflects a knowledge-based local economy.
What is the cost of living in Aurora?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Aurora, IL: median home value is $260,400 (6% above national), median rent is $1,535/month, and median household income is $90,109. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Aurora?
The poverty rate in Aurora, IL is 9.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Aurora, IL?
Aurora's population is 36.8% White, 2.6% Hispanic or Latino, 2.4% Black or African American, 3.2% Asian, and 10.5% two or more races. 25.7% of residents are foreign-born.