2025 Compare Cities Overview:
DeKalb, IL vs Grand Rapids, MI

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Highlights
Are people in Grand Rapids older or younger than people in DeKalb?
- The Median Age in Grand Rapids is 6.4 years older than in DeKalb.

Are housing costs cheaper in Grand Rapids or DeKalb?
- Grand Rapids housing costs are 20.3% more expensive than DeKalb housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Grand Rapids or DeKalb?
- The average commute for residents of Grand Rapids is 1.7 minutes shorter 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 Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids, Michigan is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions for everyone. Nature lovers can explore the banks of the Grand River or take a walk through one of the city's beautiful parks. History buffs should check out sites like the Gerald R. Ford Museum to learn more about Grand Rapids' past. Sports fans can catch a game at DeVos Place, while foodies can sample all kinds of delicious eats throughout town. Shopping lovers should head to The Shops at Centerpointe or Woodland Mall for good deals on all kinds of items. With its lively atmosphere and exciting activities, Grand Rapids is an amazing destination!

 DeKalb, ILGrand Rapids, MIUnited States
 Population  Unlock197,858329,725,481
 Median Income$45,591  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock31.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$206,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.3%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 Grand Rapids    62 Reviews

I've lived in Grand Rapids about 85% of my life and can confidently say it is a great place to live for anyone. I know countless people who dogged the city, moved  More

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Grand Rapids proper - the small city - is fairly OK. Nothing special stands out about it when judged against the nicer areas of the US, but it has some decent dining and  More

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Wow. “bland Rapids and everyone is Smug, uptight and part of the Christian Reformed Church. “ Someone is accurately describing Grand Rapids in 1985. Much has changed  More

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