College Costs in Aurora, IL 2026
Compare tuition, housing, and financial aid across 7 colleges in Aurora, Illinois. Use our free calculator to estimate your total cost.
Avg Public Tuition
$15,400
per year
Avg Private Tuition
$38,000
per year
Avg Rent Near Campus
$780
per month
Colleges & Universities
7
institutions
Aurora Overview
Population
180,542
Student Population
10,432 (5.8%)
Cost of Living Index
92.8 (avg: 100)
Walk Score
61/100
Transit Score
28/100
Unemployment Rate
4.6%
College Cost Calculator for Aurora
Cost Inputs
Total Cost (4 Years, Public In-State)
$117,024
Total After Financial Aid
$117,024
Annual Cost
$29,256
Annual After Aid
$29,256
Cost Breakdown (4 Years)
If Financed (10-Year Loan at 6.5%)
| Loan Amount | $117,024 |
| Monthly Payment | $1,329 |
| Total Interest | $42,430 |
| Total Loan Cost | $159,454 |
Universities in Aurora
| University | Type | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Aurora State University | Public | $14,742 |
| University of Aurora | Public | $15,345 |
| Aurora Community College | Community | $5,489 |
Aurora has 7 total colleges and universities. Tuition figures are approximate annual in-state rates for the 2025-2026 academic year.
Cost of Living in Aurora vs. National Average
| Category | Aurora | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Tuition (In-State) | $15,400 | $10,940 | +$4,460 |
| Monthly Rent Near Campus | $780 | $1,050 | -$270 |
| Cost of Living Index | 92.8 | 100 | -7.200000000000003 |
Aurora's cost of living is below the national average. This makes it a more affordable city for students compared to many other college towns.
Student Life in Aurora
Walk Score
Somewhat Walkable
Transit Score
Minimal Transit
Student Population
10,432 students
Aurora has a total population of 180,542, with approximately 10,432 college students (5.8% of the population). While not primarily a college town, Aurora offers students access to urban amenities, diverse employment opportunities, and a wide range of cultural experiences.
Post-Graduation Outlook in Aurora
$43,634
Starting Salary
4.6%
Unemployment Rate
65%
Graduation Rate
~14 yrs
ROI Payback Period
Return on Investment Analysis
Graduates from colleges in Aurora earn a median starting salary of $43,634, which is $8,634 more per year than the average high school graduate salary of $35,000. At a 4-year public university cost of $117,024 (including room and board), it would take approximately 14 years of the salary premium to recoup the investment. With average financial aid of $14,682 per student per year, the net cost and payback period can be significantly reduced.
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13 colleges · Avg tuition $8,287
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Decatur
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