Joliet, IL
Population 149,785 · Illinois
About Joliet, IL
Joliet is a major city located in Illinois with a population of 149,785 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $88,026 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.3 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Joliet features a median home value of $248,600, which is 2% above the national median of $244,900. This positions Joliet in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $1,237, 6% above the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 53,636 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (37,015 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (13,633 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Joliet shows an unemployment rate of 5.8%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Joliet have an average one-way commute time of 29.4 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.0% of Joliet residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 30.2% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Black or African American, and 2.2% Asian residents, with 15.2% of the population being foreign-born.
How Joliet Ranks in Illinois
Cost of Living in Joliet, IL
Compared to national averages, Joliet has a median household income of $88,026 (17% above the national median of $75,149). Home values average $248,600, which is 2% above the national median. Monthly rent at $1,237 is 6% above the US average of $1,163. Within Illinois, Joliet's income is 17% above the state average of $75,072, and home values are 50% above the state median of $165,779.
Why Live in Joliet, IL?
Joliet offers a strong local economy with a median household income of $88,026, well above the national average, and a low poverty rate of 11.0%, better than the national average.
Joliet has a population of 149,785 with a median age of 35.3 years. Compare Joliet with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Illinois.
Similar Cities Near Joliet
Cities in Illinois with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Naperville | 149,424 | $150,937 | $509,900 | Compare |
| Rockford | 147,649 | $53,328 | $120,900 | Compare |
| Aurora | 179,867 | $90,109 | $260,400 | Compare |
| Elgin | 114,106 | $88,316 | $252,400 | Compare |
| Springfield | 113,714 | $65,537 | $155,200 | Compare |
| Peoria | 112,126 | $58,716 | $149,500 | Compare |
| Waukegan | 88,919 | $70,578 | $177,600 | Compare |
| Champaign | 88,822 | $57,544 | $199,700 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Illinois
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Joliet With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Joliet
What is the population of Joliet, IL?
The population of Joliet, IL is 149,785 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a major city in Illinois.
What is the median household income in Joliet?
The median household income in Joliet, IL is $88,026 per year, which is 17% above the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Joliet?
The median home value in Joliet, IL is $248,600, which is 2% above the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Joliet?
The median monthly rent in Joliet, IL is $1,237, which is 6% above the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Joliet?
The unemployment rate in Joliet, IL is 5.8%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Joliet, IL a good place to live?
Joliet offers above-average incomes, a competitive housing market, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 149,785 and a median age of 35.3, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Joliet, IL?
25.0% of residents in Joliet aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Joliet?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Joliet, IL: median home value is $248,600 (2% above national), median rent is $1,237/month, and median household income is $88,026. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Joliet?
The poverty rate in Joliet, IL is 11.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Joliet, IL?
Joliet's population is 30.2% White, 2.1% Hispanic or Latino, 2.2% Black or African American, 2.2% Asian, and 16.7% two or more races. 15.2% of residents are foreign-born.