2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Decorah, IA vs Crystal Lake, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Crystal Lake older or younger than people in Decorah?
- The Median Age in Crystal Lake is 5.4 years older than in Decorah.

Are housing costs cheaper in Crystal Lake or Decorah?
- Crystal Lake housing costs are 21.2% more expensive than Decorah housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Crystal Lake or Decorah?
- The average commute for residents of Crystal Lake is 18.5 minutes longer than it is for residents of Decorah.

Things to do in Decorah?
Living in Decorah, IA is an exciting and unique experience. The town is full of friendly people, charming architecture, and diverse culture. It offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking or biking through the nearby trails and hills, fishing in the Upper Iowa River, or exploring the local caves. There are also great restaurants and breweries where you can enjoy a variety of delicious food and drinks. The downtown area is bustling with quaint shops offering handmade gifts and art pieces. Decorah also hosts several annual festivals such as the Nordic Fest, Trout Run Music Festival, and Winterfest that celebrate local heritage, music, and art. With its peaceful atmosphere and many attractions, living in Decorah is a truly enjoyable experience!

Things to do in Crystal Lake?
Crystal Lake, Illinois is found in McHenry county giving its citizens access to top rated schools such as Crystal Lake South High School while also having shopping options at Crystal Point Mall and multiple restaurants including Wildfire Barbeque Co.

 Decorah, IACrystal Lake, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock40,082329,725,481
 Median Income$55,480  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$244,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time13.42  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Decorah    3 Reviews

ridiculously expensive housing for such a small town. The wages in the town do not even remotely compensate for the high cost of housing. Average housing prices start  More

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Over 15 years ago

I have been a resident of Decorah, IA for 26 years. Decorah is located in the northeast corner of Iowa. When we entertain out of town guests they always comment how  More

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Over 15 years ago

This college has the most extensive music program of any liberal arts college around, has a strong connection to public radio, and Decorah is reputed to be a lovely  More

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Reviews for Crystal Lake    7 Reviews

Over 11 years ago

Great area for recreational boating, fishing and biking. Great place to involve your kids as there are lots of opportunities' for football, baseball and dance. For  More

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Over 12 years ago

I have been living here for 12 years. It's a nice community with friendly people, but I hate the weather. It feels like winter is 6 months long with many overcast days,  More

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Over 12 years ago

A nice place to raise a family, but not a lot of diversity. We are looking to move from here and searching in the Colorado  More

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