Elmhurst, IL vs. Bolingbrook, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Which Chicago suburb gives you more for your money – Elmhurst or Bolingbrook? This article provides a cost of living comparison between Elmhurst and Bolingbrook perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real cost of living in these two cities in 2025. All income figures are expressed in gross monthly income (pre-tax).
1. Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Elmhurst and Bolingbrook compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Elmhurst | Bolingbrook |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $350,000 |
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook. Housing costs an estimated 10-20% less in Bolingbrook compared to Elmhurst for both renting and buying.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. In similar mid-size cities, utility bills for a 2BR apartment typically range from $180-250 per month. Expect air conditioning costs to rise about 20% in the peak of summer.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Elmhurst and Bolingbrook.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are about 5% lower in Bolingbrook compared to Elmhurst on average. A family of four might spend around $1,000/month on groceries in Bolingbrook vs $1,050 in Elmhurst.
Eating out is also slightly cheaper in Bolingbrook. A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages $60 in Bolingbrook compared to $70 in Elmhurst.
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook, with a slight edge on grocery and restaurant costs.
4. Taxes and Fees
Elmhurst has higher property taxes, with an average rate of 2.7% vs 2.4% in Bolingbrook. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of about $1,200 per year.
Both cities have similar sales tax rates around 8%. Utility taxes and fees are also comparable.
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook. The lower property tax rate gives Bolingbrook the advantage.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Elmhurst | Bolingbrook |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home)* | $2,900 | $2,400 |
| Utilities | $220 | $220 |
| Groceries | $1,050 | $1,000 |
| Transportation | $300 | $280 |
| Taxes | $900 | $800 |
| Misc | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,870 | $5,200 |
*Based on median 3BR home price with 20% down, 30-year fixed mortgage at 4% interest.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Elmhurst offers a quaint downtown area with more walkability, while Bolingbrook provides more space and newer housing for the money. Elmhurst averages about 5°F cooler than Bolingbrook in the summer months.
Commutes into Chicago are similar, at around 30-40 minutes by car or train. Bolingbrook has more public transportation options, with access to both Metra and Pace bus lines.
7. FAQ
Q: Is Elmhurst more affordable than Bolingbrook?
A: No, Bolingbrook is generally more affordable, with lower housing, grocery, and tax costs.
Q: Which city has lower rent?
A: Bolingbrook has lower rent prices on average, at around $1,650/month for a 2BR apartment vs $1,850 in Elmhurst.
Q: Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
A: Bolingbrook. The median price for a 3BR home is about $350,000 in Bolingbrook compared to $450,000 in Elmhurst.
8. Conclusion
While both are desirable Chicago suburbs, Bolingbrook comes out ahead in this cost of living comparison. A household moving from Elmhurst to Bolingbrook could save over $600 per month on housing, groceries, and taxes combined.
However, Elmhurst may still be worth the premium for buyers who value its historic charm, walkable downtown, and slightly cooler summer weather. Ultimately, the choice depends on your budget, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
Considering a move to Elmhurst or Bolingbrook? Be sure to check out our guides on how much it costs to live in Elmhurst each month and whether moving pods or trucks are best for your move.