Joliet, IL vs Waco, TX: 88 vs 72

$1,237/mo ↑ 13%

Median Rent

$1,098/mo ↓ 11%

$88,026/yr ↑ 71%

Median Income

$51,468/yr ↓ 42%

$248,600 ↑ 25%

Home Value

$199,600 ↓ 20%

$1,472/mo ↑ 35%

Owner Costs

$1,094/mo ↓ 26%

149,785

Population

141,925

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Joliet, IL and Waco, TX, the overall cost of living indices are 88 and 72 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $139/month cheaper in Waco, saving renters about $1,668/year.

Median household income is $36,558/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Joliet is $248,600 compared to $199,600 in Waco.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Joliet vs Waco — common questions

Is Joliet or Waco cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Waco is cheaper to live in with an index of 72 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Joliet and Waco?

Median rent in Joliet is $1,237/month and in Waco it's $1,098/month — a difference of $139/month.

Which city has higher income, Joliet or Waco?

Median household income is $88,026 in Joliet and $51,468 in Waco. Median household income is $36,558/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Illinois and Texas?

Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax. Texas has 0% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 1.6% property tax.

Should I move to Joliet or Waco?

It depends on your priorities. Joliet has a cost index of 88 with median rent of $1,237/mo, while Waco has a cost index of 72 with rent of $1,098/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Joliet, IL vs Waco, TX (2026)

Joliet

Waco

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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