About Our City

Prime Location

The City is accessible through 5 interchanges on the East/West Tollway Corridor. Corporate offices and commercial growth on the City's east and west sides continue to expand the City's boundaries, now stretching from Route 59 on the east to portions beyond Orchard Road on the west.

Shopping & Housing

The Far East Side of the City includes the regional Fox Valley Mall and residential areas and is projected to house 60,000 people within the next 20 years. The Near East side includes the internationally known Chicago Premium Outlets.

Four Counties Within The City

Six School Districts Within City Limits

Demographics

History

Joseph McCarty, a pioneer from New York State, came west seeking a new home. Reaching the Fox Valley, he built the first campfire in April of 1834 on the island, which is now the site of downtown Aurora. He thought that the Fox River location was an ideal place for a new community and told his brother, Samuel.

It was not long before Samuel arrived, family was sent for, and a permanent settlement was taking roots. The settlement was named McCarty mills for the brothers' grist mill and sawmill. In 1837, when a Post Office was established, the village became Aurora, goddess of the dawn. Later, when the City was the first in the United States to use electric lights for publicly lighting the entire City, it achieved the nickname of "City of Lights."

The modest camp of 1834 has grown into a teeming city. With a population of 197,899 according to the 2010 census, the City has steadily grown throughout the years to become the second largest city in the state. For an in depth look into our history, please visit our historic preservation section.

Bright Future

The City of Aurora is rich in history and pride. The future for the "City of Lights" looks bright as the community continues to grow and prosper.