Chicago, IL vs. Joliet, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Chicago vs Joliet. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Chicago vs Joliet in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here's how typical rent and mortgage prices compare between Chicago and Joliet:
| Housing Type | Chicago | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,950 | $1,450 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $280,000 |
🏆 Winner: Joliet. Housing costs are significantly lower in Joliet compared to Chicago proper, with savings of $500/month on a typical apartment and over $150K on a median home purchase.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills also factor heavily into monthly budgets. In Chicago, expect to pay around $180/month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Joliet utility costs are slightly lower, averaging $160/month.
Both cities experience cold winters that drive up heating costs. Chicago offers programs like ComEd's Hourly Pricing to save on off-peak usage.
🏆 Winner: Joliet. While utility costs are comparable, Joliet comes out slightly ahead with an estimated $20/month in savings.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to spend around $400/month per person on food and daily goods in either location.
Restaurant prices are about 10% higher in Chicago. A meal out for two averages $80 in the city compared to $70 in Joliet.
🏆 Winner: Joliet has a slight edge on daily expenses, especially for those who eat out frequently. But the difference is minor compared to housing.
4. Taxes and Fees
Illinois has a flat income tax rate of 4.95%. But property taxes and local fees vary:
- Chicago's property tax rate is 2.1% vs Joliet's 2.8%
- Chicago charges a 0.5% property transfer tax on home sales
- Many Chicago HOA fees include services like trash and snow removal
🏆 Winner: Chicago. While exact costs depend on your property's value, Chicago's lower property tax rate can lead to long-term savings for homeowners.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Expense | Chicago | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (Mortgage/Rent) | $1,950 | $1,450 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $400 | $400 |
| Transportation | $100 | $120 |
| Misc | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $3,130 | $2,530 |
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
Cost is just one factor in choosing where to live. Also consider:
- Commute: Joliet offers an easier drive to the Chicago suburbs, while the city has more public transit
- Space: Your housing budget goes much further in Joliet in terms of square footage
- Walkability: Chicago is far more pedestrian-friendly, with shops and restaurants in walking distance
- Noise: Joliet offers a quieter environment away from the bustle of the city
Chicago averages 5°F colder than Joliet in winter months. Both cities get their share of snow and wind.
7. FAQ
- Is Chicago more affordable than Joliet? No, Joliet has a lower overall cost of living, especially for housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Joliet rent prices are about 25% lower than comparable apartments in Chicago.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Joliet home prices are significantly lower. The median home costs $280K in Joliet vs $450K in Chicago.
8. Conclusion
While both great cities, Joliet offers a lower cost of living than Chicago across most categories. A household moving from Chicago to Joliet could easily save $500/month or more on living costs.
Joliet is ideal for those seeking more space on a budget and who don't mind a longer commute. Chicago remains appealing for its walkability, public transit, and vibrant neighborhoods - for those willing to pay a premium.
Budgeting is highly personal. For more insights, check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Chicago Residents and Cost of Living in Chicago (2025 Guide).