2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Gainesville, FL vs Normal, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Normal older or younger than people in Gainesville?
- The Median Age in Normal is 1.7 years younger than in Gainesville.

Are housing costs cheaper in Normal or Gainesville?
- Normal housing costs are 22.8% less expensive than Gainesville housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Normal or Gainesville?
- The average commute for residents of Normal is 0.1 minutes longer than it is for residents of Gainesville.

Things to do in Gainesville?
Gainesville, Florida is a lively city in Alachua County. Home to the University of Florida, this city is known for its vibrant college town atmosphere. With plenty of shops and restaurants along bustling downtown streets and nearby outdoor activities like canoeing and kayaking at Paynes Prairie State Park, there's no shortage of things to do here. Gainesville also has great schools and universities, as well as several parks where visitors can take in the beauty of nature. Whether you're looking for an exciting night out or a peaceful afternoon in nature, Gainesville is sure to have something for everyone.

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!

 Gainesville, FLNormal, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,446329,725,481
 Median Income$40,937  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$271,700  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.71  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Gainesville    60 Reviews

Over 3 years ago

I've lived here most of my life. It's changed a lot, and a lot of the locals don't like it. Because it's home to one of the largest universities in the country, we see a  More

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Lovely diverse city! People is nice and there is always something to do. Outdoors activities are awesome! The springs are beautiful and there are plenty of hiking  More

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Gainesville has the highest taxes and electrical rates in the state. The city is run by a bunch of liberals who have no idea what they are doing. Crime and homelessness  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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