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What BestPlaces Users Say about DeKalb
DeKalb, Illinois is a small city located about 60 miles west of Chicago. It is home to Northern Illinois University and has a population of approximately 44,000 people. The city has a mix of urban and rural areas, and is known for its historic downtown, vibrant arts scene, and community events. The cost of living in DeKalb is relatively affordable compared to other cities in the state. With this information in mind, let's take a look at what some users have to say about living in DeKalb.
According to several user reviews on BestPlaces.net, living in DeKalb, Illinois has its positives and negatives. Many users enjoy the small-town feel and sense of community, while others feel that the city lacks diversity and job opportunities. User "Sandra" says, "I've lived in DeKalb for 20 years and have always felt very safe and welcomed by the community." In contrast, user "John" states, "There isn't much to do in DeKalb and the job market is limited, making it hard for young professionals to find work."
Another aspect that users seem to appreciate is the cost of living in DeKalb. User "Emily" shares, "I moved to DeKalb from Chicago and was pleasantly surprised by the affordable housing options and lower cost of living overall." However, user "Mark" notes, "The property taxes in DeKalb are quite high, making it difficult for homeowners on a fixed budget."
The quality of schools in DeKalb is also a topic mentioned by users. User "Rachel" praises, "The schools here are excellent and my children have received a great education." But user "David" argues, "While the schools may be good, there is a lack of diversity and cultural education in the curriculum."
In summary, users have mixed opinions about living in DeKalb, Illinois. Many enjoy the tight-knit community and affordable cost of living, while others feel there is room for improvement in job opportunities and diversity. Overall, it seems that DeKalb may be a great fit for those looking for a smaller, quieter city with a strong sense of community.
based on 2 ReviewsGet to know DeKalb with the latest comments and reviews from people who live in or have visited DeKalb
Not as good as it seems - 9/6/2008
While I love the cheaper rents then in the closer suburbs (to Chicago), the lack of high paying jobs for anyone without high degrees (Masters or higher) is disappointing. I've lived in DeKalb for the past 8+ years & have yet to find a job that pays as much as the one I have now. My current commute (from DeKalb to Aurora) is 30-45 minutes. That said, & taking gas prices out of consideration, the economic situation is just okay. Everything costs about the same & more & more retail chains are coming so you don't have to drive too far to get things. I just wish we had more diversity in the types of retail establishments (for example, more independant businesses & "quirky"
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DeKalb: A semi-rural college community - 11/15/2007
As a 37 year resident of DeKalb - an escapee of the Chicago suburbs, I am pleased to write a bit about my hometown. Originally a college town in a farming community, DeKalb (where barbed wire was developed and marketed) has evolved into a more suburban, yet still rural community. Surrounded by corn and soybean fields (a friend once said, "DeKalb has two seasons - Corn Up and Corn Down"), DeKalb has a combination of family owned businesses and national and regional chains that over time has dissolved some of our uniqueness. About 60 miles due west of Chicago, DeKalb residents can still access the great attributes of Chicago without too much trouble (the train which used to travel regularly between DeKalb and Chicago now only goes as far as Elburn, 20 minutes away) yet are able to avoid many of the negative aspects of the city and suburbs (congestion, traffic, pollution, etc.). To be happy in DeKalb weather-wise, you must enjoy the change of seasons as we can have extreme hot and cold
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