Aurora is Illinois’ second-largest city — and it doesn’t feel like a suburb pretending to be a city. It’s a real city on the Fox River, with a downtown of its own, a riverwalk, festivals, and neighborhoods that run from historic and walkable to brand-new subdivisions. It’s also one of the most diverse cities in the state, with a wide range of home styles and price points.
I’ve sold homes all over Aurora for 16 years, and I know how different the market is from one side of the river to the other. Whether you’re buying your first home, moving up, or selling a place you’ve lived in for years, I’ll tell you straight what your home is worth and what it will take to get it sold.
Neighborhoods to Know
Aurora is a big city, and its neighborhoods each have their own character. A few of the areas buyers ask me about most:
- Downtown Aurora — Historic buildings, the Fox River, and a growing arts and dining scene, with lofts, condos, and classic homes near the river.
- Orchard Valley — A well-established subdivision on the east side, known for its parks, mature trees, and family-friendly streets.
- Stonebridge — A newer, master-planned community with a golf course, trails, and a range of home styles.
- Tanner Trails — An established east-side neighborhood with a country club, golf course, and generous lots.
- Fox Valley — The area around the Fox Valley Mall, with newer subdivisions, shopping, and easy access to I-88.
Schools
Aurora is served by several school districts, including East Aurora School District 131, West Aurora School District 129, and Indian Prairie School District 204, which serves parts of Aurora’s far east side. Which district a home is in depends on its location — especially which side of the Fox River you’re on — so it’s one of the first things we confirm for any address you’re considering.
Getting Around
Aurora is the western terminus of the Metra BNSF line, with trains from the Aurora Transportation Center straight into Chicago Union Station. I-88 runs through Aurora, and Orchard Road is one of the city’s main north–south routes, so getting around the Fox Valley and into Chicago is straightforward.
Why Buy or Sell in Aurora With Keith
Aurora isn’t one market — it’s a collection of them, and the difference between a good price and a bad one often comes down to the side of the river, the district, and the street. I’ve been selling homes here for 16 years, with 51 sales in the last 12 months and over $250 million in career sales. I’ll give you a straight answer on your home’s value and a plan built around your timeline.
Aurora Real Estate FAQ
Is Aurora a good place to buy a home?
Yes. Aurora is Illinois’ second-largest city, with a real downtown on the Fox River, Metra access to Chicago, good schools, and a wide range of home styles and price points — from historic homes to new construction.
Which school district is a home in?
Aurora is served by several districts, including East Aurora 131, West Aurora 129, and Indian Prairie 204 on the far east side. The district depends on the exact location, and I can confirm it for any address you’re considering.
How long does it take to get to Chicago from Aurora?
The Metra BNSF line runs from the Aurora Transportation Center into Chicago Union Station. I-88 also connects Aurora to the city by car.
What neighborhoods should I look at in Aurora?
It depends on your budget and lifestyle. Downtown is great for walkability and character; Orchard Valley and Tanner Trails are established and family-friendly; Stonebridge offers newer homes and a golf course. Tell me how you live, and I’ll point you to the right pockets.
Should I sell my Aurora home now?
That depends on your home, your timeline, and what you want next. Call or text me at (630) 803-4150 and I’ll give you a straight answer on your home’s value and the market on your street — no pressure, no obligation.
Do you help buyers relocating to Aurora?
Yes — relocation is a big part of what I do. I help families moving into the area get oriented on neighborhoods, schools, and the commute, and I make the move as smooth as possible.
Thinking of Buying or Selling in Aurora?
Call or text (630) 803-4150. No pressure, no obligation — just a straight answer about your home and this market.
Explore: Home · Naperville real estate · Contact Keith. Keith McMahon – Compass, 55 S Main St #351, Naperville, IL 60540, (630) 803-4150.