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

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Highlights
Are people in Rockford older or younger than people in DeKalb?
- The Median Age in Rockford is 12.5 years older than in DeKalb.

Are housing costs cheaper in Rockford or DeKalb?
- Rockford housing costs are 35.6% less expensive than DeKalb housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Rockford or DeKalb?
- The average commute for residents of Rockford is 0.5 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 Rockford?
Rockford, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the heart of Winnebago County. Home to the beautiful Sinnissippi Park and Settlers Park, visitors can explore nature at its finest when visiting Rockford. There are also plenty of cultural attractions including museums, galleries, and performance venues such as the Coronado Performing Arts Center. For entertainment, visitors can explore boutique shops and restaurants along with movie theaters and live music clubs. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an exciting night out, Rockford has something for everyone!

 DeKalb, ILRockford, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock148,942329,725,481
 Median Income$45,591  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock37.638.4
 Avg. Home Price$206,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock10.1%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 Rockford    54 Reviews

Over 5 years ago

I've lived here my whole life . I love  More

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I was raised in the area and lived here 3/4 of my life. Rockford has definitely made efforts to bring events into the area so there are things to do and they have  More

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Over 6 years ago

Rockford has made great strides in the past 20 years. Downtown used to be a ghost town. Now, there are activities almost every weekend. City government has worked to  More

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