Joliet, IL vs Kent, WA: 88 vs 145

$1,237/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$1,833/mo ↑ 48%

$88,026/yr ↓ 3%

Median Income

$90,416/yr ↑ 3%

$248,600 ↓ 54%

Home Value

$537,500 ↑ 116%

$1,472/mo ↓ 23%

Owner Costs

$1,915/mo ↑ 30%

149,785

Population

135,015

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Joliet, IL and Kent, WA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 145 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $596/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $7,152/year.

Median household income is $2,390/year higher in Kent. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Joliet is $248,600 compared to $537,500 in Kent.

Washington has no state income tax, giving Kent residents a significant tax advantage over Illinois's 4.95% rate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Joliet vs Kent — common questions

Is Joliet or Kent cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 145 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Joliet and Kent?

Median rent in Joliet is $1,237/month and in Kent it's $1,833/month — a difference of $596/month.

Which city has higher income, Joliet or Kent?

Median household income is $88,026 in Joliet and $90,416 in Kent. Median household income is $2,390/year higher in Kent.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Washington?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Washington has 0% income tax, 6.5% sales tax, and 0.92% property tax.

Should I move to Joliet or Kent?

It depends on your priorities. Joliet has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,237/mo, while Kent has a cost index of 145 with rent of $1,833/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Joliet, IL vs Kent, WA (2026)

Joliet

Kent

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

More Comparisons