Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington Heights, IL vs Aurora, IL
Arlington Heights, IL vs Aurora, IL: What the data shows
Arlington Heights, IL is in Arlington Heights, IL while Aurora, IL is in Aurora, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Aurora, IL is the more affordable option at $177,500 median — $226,900 less than Arlington Heights, IL's $404,400. WYLT rates Arlington Heights, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Aurora, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington Heights, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Aurora, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington Heights, IL has Low flood risk and Aurora, IL has Low flood risk.
Arlington Heights, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington Heights, IL scores 27/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Aurora, IL's N/A/100. For families weighing school quality, Arlington Heights, IL has the higher school rating — Arlington Heights, IL rates 6.9/10 and Aurora, IL rates 6.8/10.
| Category | Arlington Heights, IL | Aurora, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Good for now |
| Median Price | $404K | $178K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $118K ✓ Higher income | $63K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 27/100 ✓ More walkable | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 60 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low | Low |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.8/10 |
| Best for | suburban familiescommuters to Chicagohomebuyers with steady income | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsFirst-time Homebuyers |
Bottom line
If you prioritize a slightly shorter commute and are willing to pay a premium for it, Arlington Heights might be the better choice, but for those on a budget, Aurora offers significantly more affordable housing options with only slightly lower school ratings. For first-time homebuyers or families looking for value, Aurora is likely the more appealing option. Ultimately, the decision comes down to how much you value a shorter commute versus a lower cost of living.
Share this comparison