2025 Compare Cities Overview:
DeKalb, IL vs Elgin, IL

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

Are housing costs cheaper in Elgin or DeKalb?
- Elgin housing costs are 28.3% more expensive than DeKalb housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Elgin or DeKalb?
- The average commute for residents of Elgin is 7.3 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 Elgin?
Elgin, Illinois is a delightful city located in the northwest suburbs of the Chicago metropolitan area. Its many attractions make it an ideal place to live or visit. Visitors can explore local history and culture at the Elgin History Museum, shop downtown boutiques and galleries, and enjoy delicious cuisine in its many restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can take advantage of nearby parks and nature trails, while sports fans can cheer on their favorite teams at sporting events held Downtown Elgin. With its diverse offerings and friendly atmosphere, Elgin is a great destination for all ages – come see for yourself!

 DeKalb, ILElgin, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock114,156329,725,481
 Median Income$45,591  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock3538.4
 Avg. Home Price$206,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock9.9%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

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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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Reviews for Elgin    9 Reviews

When I first moved to Elgin 2 years ago I did not like it. I lived in a mobile home park near the river and highway 90 in a senior community that over prices it's lot  More

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Hi, as a way of updating the post for Elgin and providing a rebuttal for some of the negative reviews, I've decided to post on this board. I've lived in Elgin since  More

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Over 15 years ago

I have lived in Elgin my whole life and it is very sad to read these comments about my town.... I'm a senior at South Elgin High School and I will be graduating this  More

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