2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Des Moines, IA vs Crystal Lake, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Crystal Lake older or younger than people in Des Moines?
- The Median Age in Crystal Lake is 5.3 years older than in Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in Crystal Lake or Des Moines?
- Crystal Lake housing costs are 68.8% more expensive than Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Crystal Lake or Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of Crystal Lake is 13.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Des Moines.

Things to do in Des Moines?
Des Moines, Iowa is an exciting city full of possibilities for those who want to experience something new. Nature lovers can explore the trails at Water Works Park and admire the views of downtown from the Des Moines Riverwalk. History buffs can visit the State Capitol Building or learn more about local culture at the African American Museum of Iowa and Salisbury House & Garden. Arts enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the many galleries in town while foodies can find delicious eats at a variety of restaurants in the area. Shopping fans will love browsing through Jordan Creek Town Center or Valley West Mall. With its wide selection of attractions, Des Moines is an absolute must-visit destination!

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.

 Des Moines, IACrystal Lake, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock40,082329,725,481
 Median Income$58,444  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock39.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$175,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time18.83  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Des Moines    53 Reviews

Des Moines is a ok and pretty quiet place but as a teen it could be dramatic because Des Moines do have is fair or violents places to avoid in Des Moines would be the  More

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Dude · 
Over 5 years ago

This city is violent, there are too many gangs especially on the north  More

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Over 6 years ago

Good for the old that like slow pace and cheap buffets. Also good for non-descript mid-westerners that don't like a lot of action. No nightlife or mountains to hike  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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