Joliet, IL vs Lowell, MA: 88 vs 119

$1,237/mo ↓ 23%

Median Rent

$1,603/mo ↑ 30%

$88,026/yr ↑ 16%

Median Income

$76,205/yr ↓ 13%

$248,600 ↓ 37%

Home Value

$395,100 ↑ 59%

$1,472/mo ↓ 12%

Owner Costs

$1,672/mo ↑ 14%

149,785

Population

114,799

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Joliet, IL and Lowell, MA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 119 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $366/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $4,392/year.

Median household income is $11,821/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Joliet is $248,600 compared to $395,100 in Lowell.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Joliet vs Lowell — common questions

Is Joliet or Lowell cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 119 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Joliet and Lowell?

Median rent in Joliet is $1,237/month and in Lowell it's $1,603/month — a difference of $366/month.

Which city has higher income, Joliet or Lowell?

Median household income is $88,026 in Joliet and $76,205 in Lowell. Median household income is $11,821/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Massachusetts?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Massachusetts has 9.0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.15% property tax.

Should I move to Joliet or Lowell?

It depends on your priorities. Joliet has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,237/mo, while Lowell has a cost index of 119 with rent of $1,603/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Joliet, IL vs Lowell, MA (2026)

Joliet

Lowell

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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