Let the numbers do the talking.
Arlington Heights, IL vs Joliet, IL
Arlington Heights, IL vs Joliet, IL: What the data shows
Arlington Heights, IL is in Arlington Heights, IL while Joliet, IL is in Joliet, IL — both in the same state. On home prices, Joliet, IL is the more affordable option at $171,200 median — $233,200 less than Arlington Heights, IL's $404,400. WYLT rates Arlington Heights, IL as “Good for now” — a solid choice worth serious consideration — and Joliet, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Arlington Heights, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Joliet, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Arlington Heights, IL has Low flood risk and Joliet, IL has High flood risk.
Arlington Heights, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Arlington Heights, IL scores 27/100 (mostly car-dependent) versus Joliet, IL's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Arlington Heights, IL has the higher school rating — Arlington Heights, IL rates 6.9/10 and Joliet, IL rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Arlington Heights, IL | Joliet, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Good for now | Think twice |
| Median Price | $404K | $171K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $118K ✓ Higher income | $61K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 27/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 2/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 18/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min ✓ Shorter commute | 61 min |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Good ✓ Cleaner air | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | suburban familiescommuters to Chicagohomebuyers with steady income | Budget buyersFamilies seeking affordable homesCommuters willing to drive to Chicago |
Bottom line
If your priority is affordability, especially for a tight budget, Joliet might be a fit, despite its limitations on amenities and commute. For those seeking a suburban family environment with decent schools, but still wanting reasonable access to Chicago, Arlington Heights is a more balanced choice, albeit with higher home costs and limited walkability. Ultimately, Arlington Heights offers a more well-rounded lifestyle, but at a higher price, making it the better option for those willing to make a higher upfront investment.
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