Let the numbers do the talking.
Aurora, IL vs Champaign, IL
Aurora, IL vs Champaign, IL: What the data shows
Aurora, IL is in Aurora, IL while Champaign, IL is in Champaign, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Champaign, IL is the more affordable option at $156,600 median — $20,900 less than Aurora, IL's $177,500. WYLT rates Aurora, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Champaign, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Aurora, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Champaign, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Aurora, IL has Low flood risk and Champaign, IL has High flood risk.
Champaign, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Aurora, IL scores N/A/100 versus Champaign, IL's 60/100 (somewhat walkable). For families weighing school quality, Champaign, IL has the higher school rating — Aurora, IL rates 6.8/10 and Champaign, IL rates 7.1/10.
| Category | Aurora, IL | Champaign, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $178K | $157K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $63K ✓ Higher income | $33K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | 60/100 ✓ More walkable |
| Transit Score | Minimal transit | 70/100 ✓ Better transit |
| Bike Score | N/A | 80/100 ✓ More bikeable |
| Commute | 60 min ✓ Shorter commute | 162 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Good ✓ Cleaner air |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.8/10 | 7.1/10 ✓ Better schools |
| Best for | FamiliesYoung ProfessionalsFirst-time Homebuyers | college studentsremote workersbudget‑conscious families |
Bottom line
If you’re looking for a more traditional suburban feel with solid schools and don’t mind a longer commute to Chicago, Aurora’s higher median price and car‑centric layout make it the safer pick. Champaign offers lower prices and better walkability, but the high flood risk, lower income levels and 2½‑hour drive to major jobs make it a riskier choice unless you can work remotely or stay local
Share this comparison