2025 Compare Cities Overview:
DeKalb, IL vs Detroit, MI

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Detroit older or younger than people in DeKalb?
- The Median Age in Detroit is 9.9 years older than in DeKalb.

Are housing costs cheaper in Detroit or DeKalb?
- Detroit housing costs are 65.2% less expensive than DeKalb housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Detroit or DeKalb?
- The average commute for residents of Detroit is 5.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of DeKalb.

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.

Things to do in Detroit?
Detroit, Michigan is a vibrant city that offers an abundance of unique experiences to its visitors. From the bustling streets of Downtown Detroit to the stunning architecture of the Guardian Building, Motor City has plenty to explore and discover. Enjoy some retail therapy by shopping in the iconic malls or visit legendary sites like the Motown Museum, The Henry Ford and Comerica Park. For those looking for some outdoor fun, stroll through Belle Isle State Park or cast off a kayak on the Detroit River. There's something for everyone in this dynamic city – experience it all!

 DeKalb, ILDetroit, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock645,658329,725,481
 Median Income$45,591  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3538.4
 Avg. Home Price$206,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.6%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time21.06  Unlock26.38
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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Dekalb

Reviews for Detroit    116 Reviews

Over 2 years ago

Have lived in the area for over a year (suburb of Grosse Pointe), but I work in downtown Detroit. I'm amazed at how cool this city is. So much to do and see, tat we  More

   |    Reply

Spent some time in the city but lived in multiple suburban areas in the metro area. I lived in Farmington Hills, Novi, Birmingham, and Rochester. Really, all were great.  More

   |    Reply

Cold, unfriendly, envious people within the city limits. The unfriendliness can turn into aggression and sometimes even bullying. Crabs in a barrel reside here and the  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Detroit


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.