Berwyn, IL vs. Joliet, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which city gives you more for your money – Berwyn or Joliet? This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between these two Chicago suburbs. It’s perfect for families relocating to the area, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone wanting to compare the real costs of living in Berwyn vs Joliet in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Berwyn and Joliet:
| Housing Type | Berwyn | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,250 | $1,100 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $325,000 | $275,000 |
🏆 Winner: Joliet. Housing costs, both renting and buying, tend to be 10-15% lower in Joliet compared to Berwyn.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another major monthly expense. In Berwyn, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a 2BR apartment. Costs are similar in Joliet, averaging $175 monthly.
Both cities experience cold winters and hot summers, so budget for higher heating and A/C bills seasonally. Joliet offers an off-peak discount plan for electric that can help save.
🏆 Winner: Joliet, but only slightly. Utility costs are comparable between the two cities.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Can you afford to live in Berwyn on your current salary? Don’t forget to factor in food and daily living costs. Groceries run about 5% cheaper in Joliet than Berwyn on average. A gallon of milk is $3.50 in Joliet compared to $3.75 in Berwyn, for example.
Eating out is also more affordable in Joliet. A basic meal out for two averages $40 in Joliet vs $45 in Berwyn. But both suburbs offer cheaper dining than in downtown Chicago.
🏆 Winner: Joliet. Expect to spend a bit less on groceries and restaurants in Joliet.
Taxes and Fees
Illinois has the 2nd highest property taxes in the U.S. The average rate in Berwyn is 2.81% vs 2.73% in Joliet. So for a $300K house, annual taxes would be $8,430 in Berwyn and $8,190 in Joliet.
Both cities charge a vehicle sticker fee: $45 in Berwyn and $40 in Joliet. Berwyn has slightly higher water/sewer fees.
🏆 Winner: Joliet. While taxes are high in both places, Joliet has a slight edge with lower property tax and city fees.
Cost Summary
| Expense | Berwyn | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Rent) | $1,250 | $1,100 |
| Utilities | $180 | $175 |
| Groceries | $350 | $325 |
| Transportation | $75 | $70 |
| Taxes (Property) | $702 | $682 |
| Misc | $250 | $225 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,807 | $2,577 |
Lifestyle Fit
Berwyn is a bit closer to downtown Chicago, with a 20 minute drive or 30 minute train ride. Joliet is further out, about 45 minutes by car or an hour by train. So Berwyn may appeal more to commuters.
Joliet has more space and newer housing on average. Lots are typically 20% larger in Joliet than in Berwyn. So you get more yard for your money in Joliet.
Both suburbs are relatively walkable, with downtown areas, parks, and decent access to public transit. Berwyn is a bit more dense and urban, while Joliet has more of a small-town feel.
FAQ
Is Berwyn more affordable than Joliet?
No, Joliet has a lower overall cost of living than Berwyn, by about 10% for an average family.
Which city has lower rent?
Joliet has cheaper apartment rents, with a typical 2BR renting for $1,100 vs $1,250 in Berwyn.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
House prices and property taxes are lower in Joliet. A median 3BR home costs about $50,000 less in Joliet than Berwyn.
Conclusion
While both Berwyn and Joliet are affordable Chicago suburbs, Joliet comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. Housing, food, and taxes are all cheaper in Joliet, adding up to significant monthly savings for a typical family.
Berwyn may still be worth the premium for some – it’s closer to the city and has a more urban vibe. But purely based on cost, Joliet offers better value in 2025. Of course, this doesn’t factor in job opportunities, schools, or other decision points.
Planning a move to Chicagoland? Be sure to check out our guide to the best moving companies. And for more cost of living breakdowns, read our comparison of other Illinois cities and towns.