What to know when moving to Joliet, IL
TL;DR: Joliet at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with a median household income of $114,098 and only 8.9% of residents renting.
- The Major Draw:
- The nearby University of St Francis adds to the area's educational options.
- The Reality Check:
- Only 2.6% of the population uses public transit, indicating a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Median rent is $1,408, so budget accordingly.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Joliet features a population of 26,789 with a solid median household income of $114,098. The community is largely composed of homeowners, with only 8.9% of residents renting, which may appeal to those looking for stability. Education is also a focus, with 31.1% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher. However, with just 2.6% commuting via public transit, it is wise to plan for car travel.
Probably not your spot if: you prefer a public transit-friendly environment, as only a small fraction of the population utilizes this option.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $1,408, while the median home value is $275,100, making homeownership a significant investment.
- 31.1% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, contributing to the local community character.
- The poverty rate is low at 4.8%, indicating a relatively stable economic environment.
- With only 8.9% of residents renting, the area skews towards homeowners.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Illinois, the property crime rate stands at 1,549 per 100,000 residents, slightly above the national average of 1,547. However, the state has seen a 16.1% decrease in property crime since 2022, showing a positive trend. The violent crime rate is 245.7 per 100,000, which is 24.5% lower than the national average of 325.3. This represents a 28.7% decrease since 2022.
- Violent crime: 245.7 per 100,000, down 28.7% since 2022.
- Property crime: 1,549 per 100,000, down 16.1% since 2022.
- Notable trend: Homicide rates have dropped by 52.6% since 2022.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Illinois).
Schools & Higher Ed
Joliet has access to 11 postsecondary institutions within the surrounding area, including notable options like the University of St Francis and Larry's Barber College. This provides residents with a variety of educational opportunities close by.
- Total postsecondary institutions: 11
- With College Scorecard data: 11
- Nearby institutions include: University of St Francis, Larry's Barber College, and Professional's Choice Hair Design Academy
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Will County sees an annual precipitation of about 27.6 inches, with 104 rainy days per year. This means you'll want to keep an umbrella handy. For outdoor activities, there are several well-rated parks nearby, including Dellwood Park and Pilcher Park Nature Center, both offering a range of recreational options.
- Dellwood Park - 4.7 stars (2,125 reviews)
- Pilcher Park Nature Center - 4.7 stars (805 reviews)
- Haunted Trails Family Entertainment Center & Picnics - 4.3 stars (1,143 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Will County, the unemployment rate is 4.5% as of December 2025, with a labor force of approximately 389,897. The total employment in the county is 372,481, reflecting a stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 4.5% (December 2025)
- Labor force: 389,897
- Employed: 372,481
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.