Joliet, IL vs Santa Maria, CA: 88 vs 137

$1,237/mo ↓ 33%

Median Rent

$1,842/mo ↑ 49%

$88,026/yr ↑ 4%

Median Income

$84,617/yr ↓ 4%

$248,600 ↓ 48%

Home Value

$478,200 ↑ 92%

$1,472/mo ↓ 18%

Owner Costs

$1,789/mo ↑ 22%

149,785

Population

109,880

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Joliet, IL and Santa Maria, CA, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 137 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $605/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $7,260/year.

Median household income is $3,409/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Joliet is $248,600 compared to $478,200 in Santa Maria.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Joliet vs Santa Maria — common questions

Is Joliet or Santa Maria cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 137 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Joliet and Santa Maria?

Median rent in Joliet is $1,237/month and in Santa Maria it's $1,842/month — a difference of $605/month.

Which city has higher income, Joliet or Santa Maria?

Median household income is $88,026 in Joliet and $84,617 in Santa Maria. Median household income is $3,409/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and California?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax.

Should I move to Joliet or Santa Maria?

It depends on your priorities. Joliet has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,237/mo, while Santa Maria has a cost index of 137 with rent of $1,842/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Joliet, IL vs Santa Maria, CA (2026)

Joliet

Santa Maria

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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