Aurora, IL vs Joliet, IL: 100 vs 88

$1,535/mo ↑ 24%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↓ 19%

$90,109/yr ↑ 2%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↓ 2%

$260,400 ↑ 5%

Home Value

$248,600 ↓ 5%

$1,591/mo ↑ 8%

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ↓ 7%

179,867

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Aurora, IL and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 100 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $298/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $3,576/year.

Median household income is $2,083/year higher in Aurora. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Aurora is $260,400 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

Both cities share the same state tax structure since they are in Illinois.

Frequently Asked Questions

Aurora vs Joliet — common questions

Is Aurora or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 100 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Aurora and Joliet?

Median rent in Aurora is $1,535/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $298/month.

Which city has higher income, Aurora or Joliet?

Median household income is $90,109 in Aurora and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $2,083/year higher in Aurora.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Illinois?

Both cities are in Illinois and share the same state tax rates: 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Aurora or Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. Aurora has a cost index of 100 with median rent of $1,535/mo, while Joliet has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,237/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Aurora, IL vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Aurora

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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