Arlington Heights, IL vs Joliet, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Joliet is 29.4% cheaper than Arlington Heights. With a cost index of 94 vs 121, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Joliet to Arlington Heights should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in Arlington Heights is $1,727/month compared to $1,237/month in Joliet — a 40% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Joliet is more affordable at $248,600 median vs $403,200.

Median household income in Arlington Heights is $118,532 compared to $88,026 in Joliet (+34.7%). While Arlington Heights is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of Arlington Heights spend roughly 17.5% of their income on rent, more than the 16.9% in Joliet.