Naperville, IL vs. Joliet, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Naperville vs Joliet. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Naperville vs Joliet in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Naperville and Joliet stack up for typical housing:
| Housing Type | Naperville | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| 2BR Apartment (Monthly Rent) | $1,800 | $1,400 |
| 3BR House (Median Price) | $450,000 | $300,000 |
🏆 Winner: Joliet. Housing costs are significantly lower in Joliet compared to Naperville, with savings of $400/month on a typical apartment rental.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another key cost of living factor. In Naperville and Joliet, expect to pay:
- Electricity: $120-180/month
- Natural gas: $40-100/month (higher in winter)
- Water/sewer/trash: $60-90/month
- Internet: $50-80/month
Both cities have similar utility costs. Joliet residents can save with municipal aggregation programs that secure lower electricity supply rates.
🏆 Winner: Joliet, but only slightly. Naperville utility costs are comparable.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
For groceries and everyday items, Naperville and Joliet are quite similar. Expect to spend around $400-600/month per adult on groceries, toiletries, and basic household goods in either city.
Restaurant prices are also comparable, with a meal out ranging from $12-15 per person for fast casual to $30-40 per person for upscale dining.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Grocery and daily living costs are nearly identical in Naperville and Joliet.
4. Taxes and Fees
Illinois has a flat income tax rate of 4.95%. However, some key differences emerge in local taxes:
- Naperville sales tax: 7.75%
- Joliet sales tax: 8.75%
- Naperville property tax rate: 2.08% (lower than Joliet)
- Joliet property tax rate: 2.81%
In Naperville, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400/month. Joliet has fewer properties with HOAs.
🏆 Winner: Naperville. Although Joliet has lower housing costs, Naperville’s lower property and sales tax rates make it more affordable overall.
5. Cost Summary
| Category | Naperville | Joliet |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR house) | $3,000 | $2,000 |
| Utilities | $270 | $250 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $200 | $150 |
| Taxes | $600 | $400 |
| Misc | $500 | $400 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $5,070 | $3,700 |
6. Lifestyle Fit
While Joliet offers lower housing costs, Naperville provides a more walkable downtown area and highly-rated schools. Naperville averages a 15 minute shorter commute to Chicago. However, Joliet’s urban amenities are growing, with more public transportation options and an expanding arts scene.
Ultimately, Naperville suits those prioritizing top schools and a quaint suburban feel, while Joliet appeals to buyers seeking affordability and more space. A typical 2,000 sq. ft. home in Joliet costs $150,000 less than in Naperville.
7. FAQ
Is Naperville more affordable than Joliet?
Overall, Joliet offers a lower cost of living than Naperville, primarily due to more affordable housing. However, Naperville’s lower property taxes help offset some cost differences for homeowners.
Which city has lower rent?
Joliet has lower rental prices, with a typical 2BR apartment costing $1,400/month compared to Naperville’s $1,800/month.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Joliet has significantly lower home prices. The median price for a 3BR house is around $300,000 in Joliet versus $450,000 in Naperville.
8. Conclusion
When comparing the cost of living in Naperville vs Joliet, Joliet emerges as the more affordable option. However, Naperville’s higher costs come with perks like top-rated schools, a thriving downtown, and a shorter commute to Chicago.
For more insights, read our [Monthly Budget Examples for Naperville Residents](/naperville-il/monthly-budget/) or [Cost of Living in Naperville (2025 Guide)](/naperville-il/cost-overview/).
Ultimately, the right choice depends on your lifestyle priorities and budget. We hope this comparison of Naperville versus Joliet helps you make an informed decision!