đź“Š Lifestyle Match
Visualizing the tradeoffs between Aurora and Philadelphia
Head-to-Head Analysis
Aurora vs Philadelphia
Detailed breakdown of cost of living, income potential, and lifestyle metrics.
đź“‹ The Details
Line-by-line data comparison.
| Category / Metric | Aurora | Philadelphia |
|---|---|---|
| Financial Overview | ||
| Median Income | $89,658 | $60,302 |
| Unemployment Rate | 4.4% | 4.7% |
| Housing Market | ||
| Median Home Price | $310,100 | $270,375 |
| Price per SqFt | $199 | $204 |
| Monthly Rent (1BR) | $1,231 | $1,451 |
| Housing Cost Index | 110.7 | 117.8 |
| Cost of Living | ||
| Groceries Index | 103.3 | 100.3 |
| Gas Price (Gallon) | $3.40 | $3.40 |
| Safety & Lifestyle | ||
| Violent Crime (per 100k) | 456.0 | 726.5 |
| Bachelor's Degree+ | 40.8% | 35.7% |
| Air Quality (AQI) | 33 | 40 |
Expert Verdict
AI-generated analysis based on current data.
Philadelphia vs. Aurora: The Ultimate Head-to-Head Showdown
You’re standing at a crossroads. On one side, the gritty, historic, and relentlessly energetic Philadelphia. On the other, the quieter, family-friendly, and fast-growing Aurora. One is a major East Coast metropolis; the other is a sprawling suburb of Chicago. The choice isn't just about geography—it's about the entire rhythm of your life.
As your relocation expert, I’m here to cut through the marketing brochures and give you the straight talk. We’re diving deep into the data, the vibe, and the real-world realities of living in these two cities. Grab a coffee, and let’s settle this.
The Vibe Check: Grit vs. Grass
Philadelphia is a city with a chip on its shoulder and a story in every brick. It’s the underdog of the Northeast corridor, where the energy is palpable. The vibe is a mix of old-world charm (hello, Independence Hall) and modern grit. You'll find world-class arts, a legendary food scene (cheesesteaks are just the start), and a passionate, diverse population. It’s walkable, loud, and unapologetically itself. Philadelphia is for the history buff, the foodie, the city-centric professional, and anyone who thrives on the hum of urban life. It’s a city that demands you engage with it.
Aurora, on the other hand, is the definition of Midwestern practicality. It’s the second-largest city in Illinois, but it feels like a collection of well-organized, family-centric neighborhoods. The vibe is "quiet competence." The Fox River runs through it, offering green space, and the focus is on schools, parks, and safe, suburban living. It’s less about nightlife and more about homeownership, community events, and easy access to the big-city amenities of nearby Chicago. Aurora is for the growing family, the commuter who values space, and anyone who prefers a lower decibel level.
Who is it for?
- Philadelphia: Urbanites, young professionals, families who value culture and walkability over a big backyard.
- Aurora: Commuters, families prioritizing schools and safety, and those who want a more traditional suburban lifestyle.
The Dollar Power: Where Does Your $100K Feel Like More?
This is where the rubber meets the road. Let’s talk about purchasing power. The first thing to note is a massive, game-changing difference in taxes: Pennsylvania has a flat state income tax of 3.07%, while Illinois has a flat state income tax of 4.95%. This simple fact is a huge lever in your financial decision.
Let's assume a household income of $100,000 for a clear comparison.
| Category | Philadelphia, PA | Aurora, IL | Winner & Insight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Median Income | $60,302 | $89,658 | Aurora. The higher median income suggests a stronger local economy and more middle-class professionals. |
| Median Home Price | $270,375 | $310,100 | Philadelphia. Surprisingly, Philly offers a lower entry point for homeownership, even in a major metro. |
| Rent (1BR) | $1,451 | $1,231 | Aurora. Rent is noticeably cheaper, giving you more square footage for your dollar. |
| State Income Tax | 3.07% | 4.95% | Philadelphia. This is a massive win for Philly. On a $100k salary, you'd pay $3,070 in PA vs. $4,950 in IL—nearly $2,000 more in your pocket in Philly. |
| Sales Tax | 8.0% | 8.75% (DuPage Co.) | Philadelphia. Slightly lower overall sales tax burden. |
The Salary Wars Verdict:
While Aurora boasts a higher median income, the tax advantage in Philadelphia is undeniable. That $2,000+ annual savings from state income tax alone can offset the slightly higher rent. If you're earning $100k, your take-home pay in Philadelphia will be higher, and your housing costs (whether buying or renting) are generally lower. Philadelphia wins on pure purchasing power. The "sticker shock" on a home is less severe, and your paycheck stretches further after the state takes its cut.
The Housing Market: Buy vs. Rent
Philadelphia:
The market here is a tale of two cities. You can find a historic rowhome in a neighborhood like Fishtown or Graduate Hospital for $400k+, or a more modest starter home in the Northeast for closer to the city median. The housing index of 117.8 (where 100 is the national average) shows it's above average, but not extreme. It's a seller's market in desirable areas, but inventory exists. Renting is viable, but long-term, the math often favors buying, especially with the lower entry price.
Aurora:
Aurora's market is classic suburban. You're buying space. For the median home price of $310,100, you'll typically get a single-family home with a yard, in a subdivision. The housing index is a bit lower at 110.7, but the competition is fierce for good school districts. This is a strong seller's market. Bidding wars are common, and you often pay a premium for the right neighborhood. Renting is cheaper, but the long-term wealth-building path is clearly through homeownership.
Verdict: If you want a foot in the door of homeownership at a lower price point, Philadelphia has the edge. If you're ready for a single-family home with a yard and can navigate a competitive market, Aurora delivers that classic American dream, albeit at a higher price.
The Dealbreakers: Quality of Life
Traffic & Commute
- Philadelphia: A major East Coast city with a dense core. Public transit (SEPTA) is extensive but aging. Driving can be congested, but the city is highly walkable. For regional travel, Amtrak is a major hub.
- Aurora: A car is non-negotiable. It's a sprawling city. While it has a Metra station for commuting to Chicago, daily life requires driving. Traffic is manageable compared to downtown Chicago but can be heavy on major arteries like I-88. The commute into Chicago is about 45-60 minutes by train or car.
Winner for Transit: Philadelphia. Winner for Space & Suburban Ease: Aurora.
Weather
- Philadelphia: Experiences four distinct seasons. Summers can be humid and hot (90°F+), winters see snow (20-30 inches annually), and spring/fall are beautiful. The humidity can be a dealbreaker for some.
- Aurora: Classic Midwest climate. Winters are harsh and long, with significant snowfall and temperatures regularly dipping below 20°F. Summers are hot and can be humid. The weather data of 21.0°F for Aurora reflects the brutal winter reality.
Verdict: This is a pick-your-poison scenario. If you hate deep cold, Philadelphia is slightly milder. If you hate humid summers, Aurora offers a slightly drier heat. Tie.
Crime & Safety
Let's be direct, because this is a major concern.
- Philadelphia: The violent crime rate is 726.5 per 100,000 people. This is significantly higher than the national average. Safety varies dramatically by neighborhood. Some areas are incredibly safe and family-oriented; others face serious challenges. This is the city's biggest dealbreaker.
- Aurora: The violent crime rate is 456.0 per 100,000 people. While lower than Philadelphia's, it's still above the US average. However, it's important to note that Aurora is generally safer than Chicago proper, and most crime is concentrated in specific pockets. The overall feeling in many suburban neighborhoods is one of safety.
The Honest Take: Aurora is statistically safer. However, in Philadelphia, your safety is highly dependent on your chosen neighborhood. This requires much more diligent research.
The Final Verdict: Which City Wins for YOU?
After breaking down the data and the lifestyle, here’s the final call.
🏆 Winner for Families: Aurora
Why: The combination of lower crime rates, more affordable single-family home availability (despite a higher median price), and a public school system geared toward suburban life gives Aurora the edge. The space, the yards, and the community feel are tailored for raising kids. The state income tax is a hit, but for many families, the safety and space are worth the trade-off.
🏆 Winner for Singles/Young Professionals: Philadelphia
Why: The purchasing power here is king. You can rent a room in a shared apartment for less, or find a studio for a price that’s manageable. The city’s energy, endless social and cultural opportunities, and walkability are perfect for this demographic. The lower tax burden means more money for exploring the city. Just do your neighborhood research meticulously.
🏆 Winner for Retirees: Aurora
Why: While Philadelphia has great walkability, the safety concerns in many areas can be a deterrent. Aurora offers a quieter, more predictable lifestyle with a strong sense of community. The proximity to Chicago provides world-class healthcare and cultural amenities without the constant hustle. For retirees looking for peace, space, and a lower-stress environment, Aurora is the safer bet.
At-a-Glance: Pros & Cons
Philadelphia
- PROS:
- Strong Purchasing Power: Lower taxes and median home prices.
- Walkable & Transit-Friendly: Easy to live without a car.
- Unmatched Culture: History, food, arts, and sports are world-class.
- Major Metro Hub: Easy access to NYC, D.C., and the Jersey Shore.
- CONS:
- High Crime Rate: Requires extreme neighborhood caution.
- Old Infrastructure: Aging transit, potholes, older housing stock.
- City Taxes: Philadelphia has its own wage tax (3.75% for residents), which erodes some state tax savings.
Aurora
- PROS:
- Safer Environment: Lower crime rates than Philly.
- Suburban Lifestyle: More space, yards, and single-family homes.
- Lower Cost of Living (Rent): More bang for your buck in rental market.
- Proximity to Chicago: Big-city access without the urban chaos.
- CONS:
- Car-Dependent: You will drive everywhere.
- Higher Income Tax: Illinois' flat rate hurts take-home pay.
- Colder Winters: Harsh, long winters with heavy snow.
- Less "Buzz": Quieter, less urban energy and nightlife.
The Bottom Line: If you crave city life and want your paycheck to go further, Philadelphia is your winner. If you prioritize safety, space, and a family-focused lifestyle, Aurora is the smarter choice. Your decision ultimately boils down to one question: Do you want a city that challenges you, or a suburb that comforts you?