2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Columbia, SC vs DeKalb, IL

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Highlights
Are people in DeKalb older or younger than people in Columbia?
- The Median Age in DeKalb is 3.1 years younger than in Columbia.

Are housing costs cheaper in DeKalb or Columbia?
- DeKalb housing costs are 0.9% more expensive than Columbia housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, DeKalb or Columbia?
- The average commute for residents of DeKalb is 5.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Columbia.

Things to do in Columbia?
Columbia, South Carolina is the state's vibrant capital city. Nestled in the Midlands area of the state, it offers plenty of attractions and activities for visitors to enjoy. From its popular Riverbanks Zoo and Garden to its nearby lakes and rivers, there are plenty of outdoor activities available to explore. Inside the city limits, you can find museums, a bustling downtown area with restaurants and shops, great schools and universities, and more. With its colorful history and unique culture, Columbia is sure to offer something for everyone.

Things to do in DeKalb?
DeKalb, Illinois sits within DeKalb County providing visitors great culture attractions from Egyptian Theater to Northern Illinois University Convocation Center as well as plenty of restaurants like Kishwaukee Tap.

 Columbia, SCDeKalb, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock41,083329,725,481
 Median Income$48,791  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$204,100  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time15.18  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Columbia    50 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

I love living in Columbia! I recently graduated from USC and plan to stay. I read the reviews posted here and it shows that like many cities, your experience will depend  More

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Loved living in Columbia, SC prior to my job transfer. It's the perfect size - plenty to do, but still a laid back place. People are extremely friendly, there are  More

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Columbia is such a unique and underrated place. It has a lot of character and history, and good nature trails. Everything feels accessible (by car) and you can get from  More

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Reviews for Dekalb    2 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

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  More

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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,  More

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