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

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

Are housing costs cheaper in Normal or Elgin?
- Normal housing costs are 20.6% less expensive than Elgin housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Normal or Elgin?
- The average commute for residents of Normal is 10.6 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Elgin.

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!

Things to do in Normal?
Normal, Illinois is a vibrant city located in McLean County, just north of Bloomington-Normal. It is home to Illinois State University and has a bustling downtown area with numerous shops, restaurants, and businesses. Normal is a major hub in the region for healthcare, finance and education opportunities. There are abundant recreational options including natural areas, parks and trails that offer plenty of outdoor activities. A variety of cultural amenities are also available such as theater performances, festivals, art galleries and other entertainment venues that give residents something to do in their spare time. Normal is truly a wonderful place where people can come together to work, play, learn and live!

 Elgin, ILNormal, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,446329,725,481
 Median Income$79,757  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$264,200  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time28.39  Unlock26.38
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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Reviews for Normal    5 Reviews

While not a perfect town by any stretch of the imagination, I have lived in Normal my entire life and I have to say that there are FAR worse places one could live. The  More

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Over 16 years ago

I would like to know more about the quality of education at Illinois State  More

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With relatively low crime, good schools and excellent access to higher education, Normal is a great place to raise a family. The city is trying to update its city center  More

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