Lexington, KY vs Joliet, IL: 82 vs 88

$1,101/mo ↓ 11%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↑ 12%

$67,631/yr ↓ 23%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↑ 30%

$272,100 ↑ 9%

Home Value

$248,600 ↓ 9%

$1,160/mo ↓ 21%

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ↑ 27%

321,122

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Lexington, KY and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 82 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $136/month cheaper in Lexington, saving renters about $1,632/year.

Median household income is $20,395/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Lexington is $272,100 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

Kentucky has a lower income tax rate, making Lexington slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Lexington vs Joliet — common questions

Is Lexington or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Lexington is cheaper to live in with an index of 82 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Lexington and Joliet?

Median rent in Lexington is $1,101/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $136/month.

Which city has higher income, Lexington or Joliet?

Median household income is $67,631 in Lexington and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $20,395/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Kentucky and Illinois?

Kentucky has 4.0% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 0.83% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Lexington or Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. Lexington has a cost index of 82 with median rent of $1,101/mo, while Joliet has a cost index of 88 with rent of $1,237/mo. Consider income potential, tax burden, and lifestyle preferences alongside raw cost data.

Cost of Living: Lexington, KY vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Lexington

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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