Columbus, GA vs Joliet, IL: 69 vs 88

$1,072/mo ↓ 13%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↑ 15%

$56,622/yr ↓ 36%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↑ 55%

$182,300 ↓ 27%

Home Value

$248,600 ↑ 36%

$1,064/mo ↓ 28%

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ↑ 38%

204,383

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Columbus, GA and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 69 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $165/month cheaper in Columbus, saving renters about $1,980/year.

Median household income is $31,404/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Columbus is $182,300 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

Illinois has a lower income tax rate, making Joliet slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Columbus vs Joliet — common questions

Is Columbus or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Columbus is cheaper to live in with an index of 69 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Columbus and Joliet?

Median rent in Columbus is $1,072/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $165/month.

Which city has higher income, Columbus or Joliet?

Median household income is $56,622 in Columbus and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $31,404/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Georgia and Illinois?

Georgia has 5.49% income tax, 4.0% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Columbus or Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. Columbus has a cost index of 69 with median rent of $1,072/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: Columbus, GA vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Columbus

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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