A data-driven snapshot comparing property taxes, sales taxes, state income taxes, and school quality across both locations. Free preview — 4 key metrics.
| Metric | 📍 Aurora, IL | 🎯 Portage, IN |
|---|---|---|
| Property Tax Rate | 2.20% | 1.00% |
| Sales Tax Rate | 8.25% | 7.00% |
| State Income Tax Rate | 4.95% | 3.45% |
The Midwest consistently ranks among the most affordable regions in the country. Comparing Aurora to Portage within the Tri-State area highlights just how much variance exists even between cities that are geographically close.
Unlike most states, Illinois taxes groceries — at a reduced 1% rate, not the full 8.25% rate. For Aurora residents, this carve-out softens the impact on household food budgets, but other everyday purchases still hit the full rate.
At a 2.2% effective property tax rate, a $350,000 home in Aurora costs roughly $7,700/year in property taxes alone — compared to $3,500/year at Portage's 1.0% rate.
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