2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Decatur, IL vs Des Moines, IA

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Highlights
Are people in Des Moines older or younger than people in Decatur?
- The Median Age in Des Moines is 5.7 years younger than in Decatur.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Moines or Decatur?
- Des Moines housing costs are 110.7% more expensive than Decatur housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Moines or Decatur?
- The average commute for residents of Des Moines is 2.4 minutes longer than it is for residents of Decatur.

Things to do in Decatur?
Decatur, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the Midwestern United States. Home to attractions such as Scovill Zoo and Nelson Park, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and nature when visiting Decatur. There are also plenty of museums, galleries, and performance venues such as Macon County History Museum and Richland Community College Performance Center. For entertainment, visitors can explore downtown shopping districts and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Decatur has something for everyone!

Things to do in Des Moines?
Des Moines, Iowa is an exciting city full of possibilities for those who want to experience something new. Nature lovers can explore the trails at Water Works Park and admire the views of downtown from the Des Moines Riverwalk. History buffs can visit the State Capitol Building or learn more about local culture at the African American Museum of Iowa and Salisbury House & Garden. Arts enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the many galleries in town while foodies can find delicious eats at a variety of restaurants in the area. Shopping fans will love browsing through Jordan Creek Town Center or Valley West Mall. With its wide selection of attractions, Des Moines is an absolute must-visit destination!

 Decatur, ILDes Moines, IAUnited States
 Population  Unlock213,545329,725,481
 Median Income$45,111  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock34.238.4
 Avg. Home Price$83,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock5.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.47  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Decatur    14 Reviews

I was sent here by the company I worked for in the '90's and was not initially impressed with midwest living. However, over the years I got used to living in the "Pride  More

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I grew up in Decatur and I still have family there, but it depresses me to see what it has become. It has a high unemployment rate, many business have closed or are run  More

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Over 14 years ago

If you enjoy drinking & driving, Decatur's fifteen drive-thru liquor windows, three times the # of drive-thru's than the ten largest cities in Illinois, COMBINED, will  More

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Reviews for Des Moines    53 Reviews

Des Moines is a ok and pretty quiet place but as a teen it could be dramatic because Des Moines do have is fair or violents places to avoid in Des Moines would be the  More

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Dude · 
Over 5 years ago

This city is violent, there are too many gangs especially on the north  More

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Over 6 years ago

Good for the old that like slow pace and cheap buffets. Also good for non-descript mid-westerners that don't like a lot of action. No nightlife or mountains to hike  More

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