Cost of Living: Pittsburgh, PA vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Pittsburgh

Pennsylvania
76
VS

Joliet

Illinois
88

Pittsburgh is 14% cheaper than Joliet.

$1,221/mo ↓ 1%
Median Rent
$1,237/mo ↑ 1%
$64,137/yr ↓ 27%
Median Income
$88,026/yr ↑ 37%
$193,200 ↓ 22%
Home Value
$248,600 ↑ 29%
$1,136/mo ↓ 23%
Owner Costs
$1,472/mo ↑ 30%
303,620
Population
149,785

Tax Comparison

3.07%
Income Tax
4.95%
6.0%
State Sales Tax
6.25%
1.49%
Property Tax
2.07%

Affordability

22.8%
rent-to-income
Affordability
16.9%
rent-to-income

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Pittsburgh, PA and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 76 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is comparable in both cities, with less than $50/month separating them.

Median household income is $23,889/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Pittsburgh is $193,200 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Pittsburgh vs Joliet — common questions

Is Pittsburgh or Joliet cheaper to live in?
Based on our cost index, Pittsburgh is cheaper to live in with an index of 76 compared to 88 (US average = 100).
What is the rent difference between Pittsburgh and Joliet?
Median rent in Pittsburgh is $1,221/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $16/month.
Which city has higher income, Pittsburgh or Joliet?
Median household income is $64,137 in Pittsburgh and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $23,889/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 Pittsburgh or Joliet?
It depends on your priorities. Pittsburgh has a cost index of 76 with median rent of $1,221/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.
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More Comparisons

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