2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Carol Stream, IL vs Normal, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Normal older or younger than people in Carol Stream?
- The Median Age in Normal is 14.7 years younger than in Carol Stream.

Are housing costs cheaper in Normal or Carol Stream?
- Normal housing costs are 33.0% less expensive than Carol Stream housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Normal or Carol Stream?
- The average commute for residents of Normal is 11.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Carol Stream.

Things to do in Carol Stream?
Carol Stream, Illinois sits within DuPage county featuring numerous attractions such Red Gate Bridge Nature Preserve or Cantigny Park combined with stores like Stratford Square Mall and local food spots like Dairy Queen

Things to do in Normal?
Normal, Illinois is a vibrant city located in McLean County, just north of Bloomington-Normal. It is home to Illinois State University and has a bustling downtown area with numerous shops, restaurants, and businesses. Normal is a major hub in the region for healthcare, finance and education opportunities. There are abundant recreational options including natural areas, parks and trails that offer plenty of outdoor activities. A variety of cultural amenities are also available such as theater performances, festivals, art galleries and other entertainment venues that give residents something to do in their spare time. Normal is truly a wonderful place where people can come together to work, play, learn and live!

 Carol Stream, ILNormal, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,446329,725,481
 Median Income$95,342  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$313,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time29.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Carol Stream    1 Reviews

Great place to live and raise a family but, taxes are high. The winters are very  More

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Reviews for Normal    5 Reviews

While not a perfect town by any stretch of the imagination, I have lived in Normal my entire life and I have to say that there are FAR worse places one could live. The  More

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Over 16 years ago

I would like to know more about the quality of education at Illinois State  More

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With relatively low crime, good schools and excellent access to higher education, Normal is a great place to raise a family. The city is trying to update its city center  More

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