Naperville, IL vs. Bolingbrook, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
Bolingbrook residents pay $220 less per month on average for housing compared to those in neighboring Naperville. This article provides a detailed cost of living comparison between Naperville and Bolingbrook. It is perfect for families relocating to the Chicago suburbs, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Naperville vs Bolingbrook in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is the biggest factor in the cost of living difference between Naperville and Bolingbrook. Typical monthly costs for common housing types:
| Housing Type | Naperville | Bolingbrook |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,950 | $1,720 |
| 3BR Home Mortgage | $2,850 | $2,640 |
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are similar between the two cities, with Bolingbrook having a slight edge. Expect monthly utility bills around:
- Electricity: $110-$140 (Naperville), $100-$130 (Bolingbrook)
- Natural Gas: $80-$120 in winter, $30-$50 in summer (both)
- Water/Sewer/Trash: $60-$90 (Naperville), $50-$80 (Bolingbrook)
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are comparable in Naperville and Bolingbrook, with no major price differences for staples. Restaurant prices are about 5% higher in Naperville.
Monthly grocery costs average $380 for a single person in both cities. Dining out 2-3 times per week adds around $200 in Naperville vs $190 in Bolingbrook.
🏆 Winner: Tie
4. Taxes and Fees
Both cities have similar property tax rates around 2.5%. However, Naperville’s higher home values mean larger tax bills. City service fees are comparable.
In Naperville, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, adding $100-$300/month. Bolingbrook HOA fees are lower on average.
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook
5. Cost Summary Table
| Category | Naperville | Bolingbrook |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR) | $2,850 | $2,640 |
| Utilities | $280 | $260 |
| Groceries | $380 | $380 |
| Transportation | $350 | $300 |
| Taxes/Fees | $1,100 | $950 |
| Misc | $400 | $350 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,360 | $4,880 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
Naperville offers a vibrant downtown with great walkability, while Bolingbrook provides more space and lower density. Commute times are similar, with Bolingbrook having more public transportation options to Chicago.
Naperville’s highly rated schools come at a cost—real estate prices average 15% higher than Bolingbrook. Bolingbrook’s relative affordability suits young families and first-time buyers.
7. FAQ
- Is Naperville more affordable than Bolingbrook? No, Bolingbrook has a lower overall cost of living, especially for housing.
- Which city has lower rent? Bolingbrook rent prices average 10-15% less than comparable apartments in Naperville.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Bolingbrook homes typically cost $50K-$100K less than similar houses in Naperville.
8. Conclusion
Bolingbrook offers a lower cost of living for most lifestyles, making it ideal for budget-conscious families and young professionals. Naperville’s higher costs get you top-notch schools, a lively downtown, and excellent amenities—perfect for established families willing to pay a premium.
For more insights, read our guides on Monthly Budget Examples for Naperville Residents and Cost of Living in Naperville (2025 Guide). Explore cost of living breakdowns for other Chicago suburbs to find your perfect fit!