Philadelphia, PA vs Joliet, IL: 85 vs 88

$1,323/mo ↑ 7%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↓ 7%

$60,698/yr ↓ 31%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↑ 45%

$232,400 ↓ 7%

Home Value

$248,600 ↑ 7%

$1,233/mo ↓ 16%

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ↑ 19%

1,582,432

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Philadelphia, PA and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 85 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $86/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $1,032/year.

Median household income is $27,328/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Philadelphia is $232,400 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

Pennsylvania has a lower income tax rate, making Philadelphia slightly more tax-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Philadelphia vs Joliet — common questions

Is Philadelphia or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Philadelphia is cheaper to live in with an index of 85 compared to 88 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Philadelphia and Joliet?

Median rent in Philadelphia is $1,323/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $86/month.

Which city has higher income, Philadelphia or Joliet?

Median household income is $60,698 in Philadelphia and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $27,328/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Pennsylvania and Illinois?

Pennsylvania has 3.07% income tax, 6.0% sales tax, and 1.49% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Philadelphia or Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. Philadelphia has a cost index of 85 with median rent of $1,323/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: Philadelphia, PA vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Philadelphia

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

Frequently Asked Questions

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