Aurora : Illinois
Living a College Town Lifestyle in Aurora, Illinois
The City of Lights, and an interesting small college city, Aurora has a population of just over 150,000. It is located to the east of Chicago in northeastern Illinois.
The city has a long history of manufacturing. Many historical buildings were created during its most prosperous era, and some of them remain today, such as the Paramount Theater. Aurora University is within the town, adding the spark and culture that comes with a college in the community.
Photo of Paramount courtesy of Wikipedia and Serhii Chrucky.
Where to Retire in Aurora and Home Prices
There are many potential neighborhoods for retirees to live in, as well as at least one active adult community. The median home value was $213,970. in mid-2021, according to Zillow. The nearby towns of Batavia, St. Charles, and Geneva are much more charming and lower scale.
What Is Special about Aurora
Close to Chicago with many historic buildings and interesting neighborhoods. Sri Venkateswara Swami Temple of Greater Chicago, is a major Hindu temple.
What Is Not Special about Aurora
Winters are cold, property taxes are high.
Climate and Physical Environment
Aurora is southwest of Chicago near Naperville. The average July high temperature is 84 and the average January low is 10. The wettest month is July (4")
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
Paramount Theatre and the Riverfront Playhouse offer live theatre.There are numerous festivals held downtown during the year, such as Blues on the Fox and Downtown Alive. There is a good public library.
Crime
Aurora's property crime rate is lower than the national average. It's violent crime rate has dropped from a very high rate during the 1990's and the early 2000's, but is still a little above the national average.
Medical Facilities
There are 2 hospitals - Provena Mercy Center and Rush-Copley Medical Center.
Transportation
The Aurora Municipal Airport has general aviation and acts as a relief valve for Chicago's O'Hare and Midway. The Metra commuter railroad connects with Chicago. Aurora is considered above average in walkability when compared to other towns.
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