Cost of Living: Joliet, IL vs Ann Arbor, MI (2026)

Joliet

Illinois
88
VS

Ann Arbor

Michigan
121

Joliet is 27% cheaper than Ann Arbor.

$1,237/mo ↓ 20%
Median Rent
$1,552/mo ↑ 25%
$88,026/yr ↑ 9%
Median Income
$81,089/yr ↓ 8%
$248,600 ↓ 43%
Home Value
$435,100 ↑ 75%
$1,472/mo ↓ 10%
Owner Costs
$1,638/mo ↑ 11%
149,785
Population
121,179

Tax Comparison

4.95%
Income Tax
4.25%
6.25%
State Sales Tax
6.0%
2.07%
Property Tax
1.38%

Affordability

16.9%
rent-to-income
Affordability
23.0%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Joliet, IL and Ann Arbor, MI, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 121 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $315/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $3,780/year.

Median household income is $6,937/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Joliet is $248,600 compared to $435,100 in Ann Arbor.

Michigan has a lower income tax rate, making Ann Arbor slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Joliet vs Ann Arbor — common questions

Is Joliet or Ann Arbor cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 121 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Joliet and Ann Arbor?
Median rent in Joliet is $1,237/month and in Ann Arbor it's $1,552/month — a difference of $315/month.
Which city has higher income, Joliet or Ann Arbor?
Median household income is $88,026 in Joliet and $81,089 in Ann Arbor. Median household income is $6,937/year higher in Joliet.
How do taxes compare between Illinois and Michigan?
Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Michigan has 4.25% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.38% property tax.
Should I move to Joliet or Ann Arbor?
It depends on your priorities. Joliet has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,237/mo, while Ann Arbor has a cost index of 121 with rent of $1,552/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.
View Joliet details → View Ann Arbor details →

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