Aurora Apartments

Aurora is one of Chicago’s largest and most diverse suburbs—and Illinois’ second-largest city—located about 40 miles west of downtown. It spans Kane, DuPage, Will, and Kendall counties and blends historic roots with modern development. Once a manufacturing hub due to its strategic position on the Fox River and the arrival of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad, Aurora has evolved into a vibrant community known for its affordable housing, rich cultural diversity, and revitalized downtown. Nicknamed “The City of Lights” for pioneering electric street lighting in 1881, Aurora still shines with its arts scene, dining options, and civic infrastructure.

Renters are drawn to Aurora for its spacious homes, suburban value, and access to amenities like the Metra BNSF line, family-friendly parks, and a thriving food and entertainment scene. Whether you're commuting to the city or settling into a growing suburb, Aurora offers the right balance of space, affordability, and community character.

Demographics of Aurora

Aurora is one of Illinois' most demographically diverse cities. With a population over 180,000 and a median age just under 34, the city welcomes young professionals, families, and longtime residents alike. Aurora experienced a significant demographic shift in the 1980s with an influx of Hispanic residents, and today its diversity is reflected in everything from local festivals to its dining scene. The community places high value on education, civic engagement, and inclusive growth, which is evident in its strong public services and support for youth programs and local businesses.

Weather in Aurora

Aurora experiences all four seasons typical of the Chicagoland region. Winters bring snow and average highs in the 30s, while spring fills the city’s parks and riverwalk with blooms. Summers are ideal for outdoor festivals and farmers markets, and autumn provides crisp air and colorful foliage along the Fox River. Renters should prepare for seasonal transitions, especially in older rental homes that may not feature modern HVAC systems.

Overview of the Aurora Rental Market

Aurora offers one of the most affordable rental markets among major Chicago suburbs. More than a quarter of homes in the city are rentals, with housing options ranging from vintage apartments and duplexes to newer townhomes and complexes—especially concentrated on the East Side between the river and the Kane/DuPage county line. One-bedroom apartments typically rent from $1,100 to $1,500, while two-bedrooms average between $1,400 and $1,900. Downtown units and those near the river or Metra stations see higher demand, but renters across the city enjoy more space for their budget compared to neighboring suburbs.

Where to Eat and Drink in Aurora

Aurora has plenty of solid spots to eat and grab a drink. Two Brothers Roundhouse is a go-to for beer, live music, and a cool historic setting. For great Mexican food, locals love Taqueria El Tio and La Quebrada—no-frills, just good flavor. Altiro Latin Fusion offers creative small plates if you're in the mood for something different, and Hardware Gastropub just outside of town is worth the drive for steaks and craft cocktails. Need coffee? Tredwell Coffee is a local favorite. For brunch, try Mother’s Pancake House or Benny’s Place. And if it’s pizza night, go with Ach-N-Lou’s or Mike & Denise’s—both longtime crowd-pleasers.

Where to Eat and Drink in Aurora

Aurora has plenty of solid spots to eat and grab a drink. Two Brothers Roundhouse is a go-to for beer, live music, and a cool historic setting.

For great Mexican food, locals love Taqueria El Tio and La Quebrada—no-frills, just good flavor. Altiro Latin Fusion offers creative small plates if you're in the mood for something different, and Hardware Gastropub just outside of town is worth the drive for steaks and craft cocktails.

Need coffee? Tredwell Coffee is a local favorite. For brunch, try Mother’s Pancake House or Benny’s Place. And if it’s pizza night, go with Ach-N-Lou’s or Mike & Denise’s—both longtime crowd-pleasers.

Schools and Higher Education in Aurora

Public, Private, and Charter Schools

Aurora is served by several school districts, primarily East Aurora District 131 and West Aurora School District 129. Notable institutions include West Aurora High School and Fred Rodgers Magnet Academy.

Private and charter options include Aurora Christian Schools, Rosary High School, and Aurora Montessori.

Colleges and Universities

Aurora University anchors the city’s higher education landscape with undergraduate and graduate programs. Nearby options include Waubonsee Community College, North Central College, and branches of DePaul University and DeVry University.

Getting Around Aurora

Public Transportation

Aurora is the final stop on the Metra BNSF Railway Line, with service to downtown Chicago’s Union Station in just over an hour. The Aurora Transportation Center also connects riders to Pace Bus Routes, including Route 802 (Aurora–Naperville), Route 530 (West Aurora), and Route 529 (East Aurora). Bike trails along the Fox River offer scenic paths for commuting and recreation.

Parking

Downtown Aurora offers free and affordable parking options, with garages and metered spots near shops and venues. The Aurora Metra station has ample commuter parking, and most rentals include off-street parking or garages. Permits are not commonly required except during special events.

Traffic

High-traffic corridors like Route 59 and I-88 can see congestion during peak hours, but the city’s grid and highway access support efficient commuting to Naperville, Schaumburg, or Chicago. Weekend drives are typically smooth thanks to Aurora’s well-maintained regional roads.

History of Aurora, IL

Founded in the 1830s, Aurora grew around mills and river commerce before becoming an industrial powerhouse with the arrival of the railroad. Its downtown still showcases preserved architecture, including the Paramount Theatre, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and the restored Roundhouse. The nickname “City of Lights” dates back to its 1881 adoption of electric streetlights. Aurora’s downtown also plays host to Hollywood Casino Aurora and even served as the setting of the 1992 cult classic film Wayne’s World.