Naperville, IL vs. Wheaton, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Naperville vs Wheaton. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Naperville vs Wheaton in 2025.
Housing Costs
Housing is typically the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how Naperville and Wheaton compare for common housing options:
| Housing Type | Naperville | Wheaton |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR House Price | $450,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Wheaton. Housing costs an estimated 10-20% less in Wheaton compared to Naperville.
Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility costs are fairly similar between the two cities. Typical households in both Naperville and Wheaton can expect to pay around $200-250 per month for electricity, gas, water, and waste.
Both cities experience cold winters and hot summers. Energy usage and bills tend to be highest in July and January. Look for off-peak savings plans from ComEd and Nicor Gas.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Utility costs are comparable in Naperville and Wheaton.
Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery costs are similar in Naperville and Wheaton, with Naperville trending about 5% higher on average. A gallon of milk is $3.50 in Naperville vs $3.35 in Wheaton. Eating out is also pricier in Naperville, where a basic meal out for two averages $50 compared to $45 in Wheaton.
🏆 Winner: Wheaton has a slight edge for everyday expenses and groceries.
Taxes and Fees
Naperville has higher property taxes, with an average rate of 2.5% vs Wheaton’s 2.2%. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of $1200 per year.
Both cities have similar vehicle sticker fees and utility taxes. In Naperville, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, while these are usually separate in Wheaton.
🏆 Winner: Wheaton. The lower property tax rate gives Wheaton the advantage.
Cost of Living in Naperville vs Wheaton: Summary
| Category | Naperville | Wheaton |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Utilities | $225 | $225 |
| Groceries | $500 | $475 |
| Transportation | $150 | $150 |
| Taxes | $1000 | $880 |
| Misc | $500 | $450 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,225 | $3,830 |
Lifestyle Fit
While Wheaton is more affordable, Naperville offers more space, newer housing options, and highly rated schools. Wheaton has better walkability and more public transit.
Naperville is about 5°F warmer than Wheaton in summer.
Commuting to Chicago takes 35-50 minutes from Naperville vs 50-70 minutes from Wheaton.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Naperville more affordable than Wheaton? No, Wheaton has a lower overall cost of living than Naperville by about 10%.
- Which city has lower rent? Wheaton has lower average rent prices, with a typical 2BR apartment renting for $1,650 vs $1,850 in Naperville.
- Where is it cheaper to buy a home? Wheaton has lower median home prices, with a 3BR house averaging $375,000 compared to $450,000 in Naperville.
Conclusion
Wheaton offers a lower overall cost of living for most households, with more affordable housing, lower taxes, and slightly cheaper groceries and daily expenses. However, Naperville delivers more space, newer homes, top schools, and a shorter commute to Chicago.
Wheaton is ideal for:
- Budget-conscious families
- Retirees seeking walkability
- Renters who work remotely
Naperville is perfect for:
- High-earning professionals
- Families prioritizing education
- Those seeking newer homes and amenities
Considering a move to Naperville or Wheaton? Check out our Monthly Budget Examples for Naperville Residents and full Cost of Living in Naperville (2025 Guide) for more insights.