Elgin, IL vs. Joliet, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Elgin vs Joliet. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Elgin vs Joliet in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living differences. Here’s how Elgin and Joliet stack up:
| Housing Type | Elgin | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,450 | $1,550 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $325,000 | $295,000 |
🏆 Winner: Joliet. While apartment rents are slightly higher, the significantly lower home prices in Joliet give it the edge for housing affordability.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Expect to pay around $150-200 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash for a typical apartment. Costs may be 10-20% higher in winter months due to heating needs.
Both cities offer optional programs like off-peak electricity plans that can help save on energy bills.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Elgin and Joliet.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are very similar between Elgin and Joliet. Expect to spend around $400-500 per month on groceries for a single person, or $800-1,000 for a family of four. Restaurant prices are also nearly identical.
🏆 Winner: Tie. The cost of food and daily goods is almost the same in both cities.
4. Taxes and Fees
Illinois has a flat income tax rate of 4.95%. However, there are some differences in local taxes:
- Elgin’s property tax rate is 2.88%, while Joliet’s is 2.81%
- Elgin charges a 0.75% local sales tax on top of the state rate, while Joliet’s is 0.25%
- Vehicle stickers cost $25-45 in Elgin but only $15-25 in Joliet
In Elgin, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, while in Joliet they are more likely to only cover common area maintenance.
🏆 Winner: Joliet. The lower property taxes and fees give Joliet a slight edge.
5. Cost of Living Summary
| Category | Elgin | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,450 | $1,350 |
| Utilities | $180 | $180 |
| Groceries | $450 | $450 |
| Transportation | $60 | $55 |
| Taxes | $350 | $325 |
| Misc | $250 | $250 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $2,740 | $2,610 |
Note: All income and cost figures are expressed as gross monthly amounts (pre-tax).
6. Lifestyle Fit
While the cost of living is fairly similar, each city has a different vibe:
- Elgin offers more downtown walkability and a slightly shorter commute to Chicago
- Joliet has more spacious housing for the price and convenient access to I-80
- Elgin averages 2°F cooler than Joliet in the summer months.
7. Frequently Asked Questions
Is Elgin more affordable than Joliet?
Joliet has a slight edge in overall affordability, mainly due to lower housing and tax costs. However, the difference is minor.
Which city has lower rent?
Joliet has lower apartment rents on average, by about $100/month for a 2-bedroom unit.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Joliet takes the lead here, with median home prices around $30,000 less than in Elgin.
8. Conclusion
While Joliet comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison, both cities offer a relatively affordable lifestyle compared to other Chicago suburbs. Elgin may be a better fit for those prioritizing a walkable downtown area and shorter commute, while Joliet appeals to buyers looking for more space for their money.
Budgeters can dive deeper with these resources: