Wheaton, IL vs. Bolingbrook, IL: Cost of Living Comparison (2025)
This article provides a cost of living comparison: Wheaton vs Bolingbrook. It is perfect for families relocating, professionals choosing between job offers, or anyone comparing the real-life cost of Wheaton vs Bolingbrook in 2025.
1. Housing Costs
Housing is often the biggest factor in cost of living. Here’s how typical housing expenses compare between Wheaton and Bolingbrook:
| Housing Type | Wheaton | Bolingbrook |
|---|---|---|
| Median 2BR Apartment Rent | $1,850 | $1,650 |
| Median 3BR Home Price | $450,000 | $375,000 |
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook. Housing costs tend to be 10-20% lower in Bolingbrook compared to Wheaton.
2. Utilities and Energy Costs
Utility bills are another important monthly expense. In Wheaton, expect to pay around $180 per month for electricity, gas, water, and trash. Costs may be slightly higher in the winter.
In Bolingbrook, a typical household spends about $160 monthly on utilities. The village offers an optional off-peak electricity plan that can help reduce bills.
🏆 Winner: Bolingbrook has a slight edge on utility costs.
3. Groceries and Daily Expenses
Grocery prices are fairly similar between the two cities. Budget around $400-500 per month for a couple’s groceries in either location. Dining out is also comparable, with a nice meal for two ranging from $60-100.
🏆 Winner: Tie. Expect similar daily living costs in Wheaton and Bolingbrook.
4. Taxes and Fees
Wheaton has a slightly higher property tax rate of 2.31% compared to Bolingbrook’s 2.18%. For a $400K home, that’s a difference of about $520 per year.
In Wheaton, HOA fees often include landscaping and trash, ranging from $200-400 monthly. Bolingbrook HOAs are similar at $150-350/month.
🏆 Winner: Wheaton has a minor edge on property taxes, but it’s close.
5. Cost Summary Table
| Expense | Wheaton | Bolingbrook |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (3BR Home) | $2,800 | $2,400 |
| Utilities | $180 | $160 |
| Groceries | $500 | $500 |
| Transportation | $200 | $180 |
| Taxes & Fees | $800 | $700 |
| Misc Expenses | $500 | $500 |
| Estimated Monthly Total | $4,980 | $4,440 |
Note: These are pre-tax monthly income estimates. Actual budgets vary by household. See our Monthly Budget Examples for Wheaton Residents for more.
6. Lifestyle Fit
Wheaton offers a charming downtown, highly rated schools, and a slightly shorter commute to Chicago. However, it comes with higher housing costs and less public transit than Bolingbrook.
Bolingbrook has more affordable homes, a diverse community, and convenient highway access. But it’s further from the city and has fewer walkable areas compared to Wheaton.
Wheaton averages 5°F cooler than Bolingbrook in July. Both have similar winter weather.
7. FAQ
Is Wheaton more affordable than Bolingbrook?
Overall, Bolingbrook is more affordable. Housing and utilities tend to be 10-20% cheaper than Wheaton.
Which city has lower rent?
Bolingbrook has lower apartment rents on average, by about $200/month for a 2-bedroom.
Where is it cheaper to buy a home?
Bolingbrook home prices are around 15% lower than comparable homes in Wheaton.
8. Conclusion
Wheaton and Bolingbrook offer different benefits for varying budgets and lifestyles. Bolingbrook is ideal for those prioritizing affordability, easy highway access, and diversity. Wheaton suits families seeking top schools, a quaint downtown, and a quicker commute.
We recommend Bolingbrook for most budget-conscious households. Wheaton is great for those willing to spend more for amenities and location.
Considering other Chicago suburbs? Read our Cost of Living in Wheaton (2025 Guide) for helpful comparisons.