Let the numbers do the talking.
Chicago, IL vs Joliet, IL
Chicago, IL vs Joliet, IL: What the data shows
Chicago, IL is in Chicago, 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 — $315,800 less than Chicago, IL's $487,000. WYLT rates Chicago, IL as “Settle here” — an excellent place to put down roots — and Joliet, IL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Chicago, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Joliet, IL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Chicago, IL has Low flood risk and Joliet, IL has High flood risk.
Chicago, IL is the more walkable neighborhood. Chicago, IL scores 70/100 (very walkable) versus Joliet, IL's 2/100 (car-dependent). For families weighing school quality, Chicago, IL has the higher school rating — Chicago, IL rates 6.9/10 and Joliet, IL rates 6.2/10.
| Category | Chicago, IL | Joliet, IL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Settle here | Think twice |
| Median Price | $487K | $171K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $2K | $1K ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $120K ✓ Higher income | $61K |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | 70/100 ✓ More walkable | 2/100 |
| Transit Score | 62/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 76/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 7 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 | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 6.9/10 ✓ Better schools | 6.2/10 |
| Best for | Young professionalsFamilies with school‑age kidsCollege students | Budget buyersFamilies seeking affordable homesCommuters willing to drive to Chicago |
Bottom line
If you value a walkable lifestyle, access to top-rated schools, and a relatively short commute to the city, choose Chicago. If you prioritize saving money on a home and are willing to make significant trade-offs in terms of commute time, flood risk, and amenities, Joliet might be a fit. However, for most professionals and families, Chicago's benefits outweigh the costs.
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