Aurora, Illinois
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| Aurora, Illinois | |
|---|---|
| Name | Aurora |
| Settlement type | City |
| Nickname | The City of Lights |
| Pushpin label | Aurora |
| Coordinates | 41, 45, 50, N... |
| Subdivision type | Country |
| Subdivision name | United States |
| Subdivision type1 | State |
| Subdivision type2 | Counties |
| Subdivision name1 | Illinois |
| Subdivision name2 | Kane, DuPage, Kendall, Will |
| Established title | Settled |
| Established date | 1834 |
| Established title2 | Incorporated (city) |
| Established date2 | 1857 |
| Government type | Mayor–council |
| Leader title | Mayor |
| Leader name | Richard Irvin |
| Unit pref | Imperial |
| Area total km2 | 118.55 |
| Area total sq mi | 45.77 |
| Area land km2 | 117.37 |
| Area land sq mi | 45.32 |
| Area water km2 | 1.18 |
| Area water sq mi | 0.46 |
| Elevation ft | 719 |
| Elevation m | 219 |
| Population total | 180,542 |
| Population as of | 2020 |
| Population density km2 | 1538.30 |
| Population density sq mi | 3983.77 |
| Timezone | CST |
| Utc offset | -6 |
| Timezone DST | CDT |
| Utc offset DST | -5 |
| Postal code type | ZIP Codes |
| Postal code | 60502–60507, 60568 |
| Area code | 630 and 331 |
| Blank name | FIPS code |
| Blank info | 17-03012 |
| Blank1 name | GNIS feature ID |
| Blank1 info | 2394036 |
| Website | www.aurora-il.org |
Aurora, Illinois. A historic city straddling the Fox River, it is the second-most populous municipality in the state after Chicago. Known as "The City of Lights" for being one of the first in the nation to use electric street lights, it serves as a major regional hub within the Chicago metropolitan area. Its growth was historically fueled by manufacturing and transportation along the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad.
History
Permanent settlement began in 1834 when brothers Joseph and Samuel McCarty established a community on the river's west side. The arrival of the Galena and Chicago Union Railroad in 1850 spurred significant growth, leading to its incorporation as a city in 1857. The city became a national manufacturing center, home to the Chicago, Burlington and Quincy Railroad shops and large factories like the Aurora Silverplate Manufacturing Company and the Aurora Brewing Company. In 1881, it earned its nickname by illuminating its streets with electric arc lamps, a pioneering feat. The 20th century saw the rise of major employers like the Chicago Premium Outlets, Lyon Metal Works, and a large manufacturing presence for companies like Caterpillar Inc. and Western Electric.
Geography
According to the United States Census Bureau, the city encompasses a total area of 45.77 square miles, primarily within Kane County and extending into DuPage, Kendall, and Will counties. The Fox River bisects the city into east and west sides, which historically functioned as separate municipalities. Key geographic features include the Blackberry Creek and the presence of several parks within the Fox Valley Park District. The city's topography is generally flat, characteristic of the Midwestern United States, with some rolling terrain near the river valleys.
Demographics
As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 180,542, making it the 144th-most populous city in the United States. The city is noted for its significant Hispanic or Latino population, which comprises approximately 42% of residents, contributing to a diverse racial and ethnic makeup. Other large demographic groups include non-Hispanic White and Black communities. This diversity is reflected in local institutions, media like the Aurora Beacon-News, and community events.
Economy
Historically dominated by heavy manufacturing, the economy has diversified into healthcare, education, and logistics. Major employers include Rush–Copley Medical Center, Waubonsee Community College, and the Chicago Premium Outlets. The presence of the BNSF Railway and proximity to Interstate 88 support a robust transportation and distribution sector. The downtown area has undergone revitalization efforts, attracting businesses and serving as a center for finance and government services alongside historic venues like the Paramount Theatre.
Culture and recreation
The city is a cultural center for the Fox Valley region, anchored by the restored Paramount Theatre, a renowned venue for Broadway tours and concerts. The SciTech Hands On Museum and the Aurora Historical Society operate several museums, including the David L. Pierce Art and History Center. Recreational amenities are provided by the Fox Valley Park District, which manages Phillips Park and its zoo, as well as the RiverEdge Park concert venue. The city also hosts annual events like the Aurora Pride Parade and is home to the Walter Payton Memorial.
Government
The city operates under a mayor–council form of government. The current mayor is Richard Irvin, and the city council consists of aldermen elected from ten wards. As a home rule municipality, it provides a full range of services, including police through the Aurora Police Department and fire protection. The city government shares jurisdiction with the overlapping Kane County government and is part of Illinois's 11th congressional district.
Category:Cities in Illinois Category:County seats in Illinois Category:Chicago metropolitan area