Providence, RI vs Joliet, IL: 99 vs 88

$1,333/mo ↑ 8%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↓ 7%

$66,772/yr ↓ 24%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↑ 32%

$322,800 ↑ 30%

Home Value

$248,600 ↓ 23%

$1,467/mo ≈ Same

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ≈ Same

190,214

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing Providence, RI and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 99 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $96/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $1,152/year.

Median household income is $21,254/year higher in Joliet. Home values also differ significantly — the median in Providence is $322,800 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Providence vs Joliet — common questions

Is Providence or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 99 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between Providence and Joliet?

Median rent in Providence is $1,333/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $96/month.

Which city has higher income, Providence or Joliet?

Median household income is $66,772 in Providence and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $21,254/year higher in Joliet.

How do taxes compare between Rhode Island and Illinois?

Rhode Island has 5.99% income tax, 7.0% sales tax, and 1.53% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to Providence or Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. Providence has a cost index of 99 with median rent of $1,333/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: Providence, RI vs Joliet, IL (2026)

Providence

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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