Cost of Living in Aurora, OR

With a cost of living index of 148, Aurora, OR is one of the most expensive cities in the United States. Living here is 48% more expensive than the national average and 42% above the Oregon state average of 106. Aurora is a small community of 1,104 residents.

Housing costs are the biggest factor in Aurora's cost of living. The median monthly rent is $2,313 (75% above the US median of $1,319), and the median home value sits at $514,800 (69% above the national median of $304,900). At current prices, the median home costs roughly 4.5x the median household income — a moderately affordable ratio by today's standards.

The median household income in Aurora is $115,187, which is 53% higher than the national median of $75,149. Residents spend roughly 24% of household income on rent. This is a comfortable ratio, well below the 30% threshold that financial experts recommend as a maximum. While incomes are above average, they more than offset the higher cost of living.

Climate is another factor for anyone considering a move to Aurora. The area sees an average annual temperature of 54.8°F, with summers averaging 68°F and winters around 43°F. Annual rainfall totals 39.6 inches spread over roughly 166 days.

Everyday prices in the Salem, OR (Metropolitan Statistical Area) metro area tend to run above the national average. Out of 6 common grocery and utility items tracked by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 5 are priced higher than the US average. These real-world prices — from groceries to electricity — add up and should be factored into any cost of living comparison.

Data sources: US Census Bureau (ACS 2023), Zillow Home Values, HUD Fair Market Rents, BEA Regional Price Parities, BLS Average Prices, and NOAA Climate Normals. Updated monthly.