San Francisco, CA vs Joliet, IL: 267 vs 88

$2,419/mo ↑ 96%

Median Rent

$1,237/mo ↓ 49%

$141,446/yr ↑ 61%

Median Income

$88,026/yr ↓ 38%

$1,380,500 ↑ 455%

Home Value

$248,600 ↓ 82%

$2,620/mo ↑ 78%

Owner Costs

$1,472/mo ↓ 44%

836,321

Population

149,785

Detailed Comparison

When comparing San Francisco, CA and Joliet, IL, the overall cost of living indices are 267 and 88 respectively (national median = 100). Rent is $1,182/month cheaper in Joliet, saving renters about $14,184/year.

Median household income is $53,420/year higher in San Francisco. Home values also differ significantly — the median in San Francisco is $1,380,500 compared to $248,600 in Joliet.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

San Francisco vs Joliet — common questions

Is San Francisco or Joliet cheaper to live in?

Based on our cost index, Joliet is cheaper to live in with an index of 88 compared to 267 (US average = 100).

What is the rent difference between San Francisco and Joliet?

Median rent in San Francisco is $2,419/month and in Joliet it's $1,237/month — a difference of $1,182/month.

Which city has higher income, San Francisco or Joliet?

Median household income is $141,446 in San Francisco and $88,026 in Joliet. Median household income is $53,420/year higher in San Francisco.

How do taxes compare between California and Illinois?

California has 13.3% income tax, 7.25% sales tax, and 0.71% property tax. Illinois has 4.95% income tax, 6.25% sales tax, and 2.07% property tax.

Should I move to San Francisco or Joliet?

It depends on your priorities. San Francisco has a cost index of 267 with median rent of $2,419/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: San Francisco, CA vs Joliet, IL (2026)

San Francisco

Joliet

Tax Comparison

Affordability

Detailed Comparison

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