2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Madison, WI vs Des Plaines, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Des Plaines older or younger than people in Madison?
- The Median Age in Des Plaines is 10.8 years older than in Madison.

Are housing costs cheaper in Des Plaines or Madison?
- Des Plaines housing costs are 20.7% less expensive than Madison housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Des Plaines or Madison?
- The average commute for residents of Des Plaines is 8.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of Madison.

Things to do in Madison?
Madison, Wisconsin is a vibrant city with a unique mix of culture and history. Take a stroll through State Street and explore the city's many art galleries, bookstores and some of the best restaurants in the Midwest. Visit University of Wisconsin-Madison for some stunning architecture and inspiring scientific research, or take in an outdoor concert at Breese Stevens Field. With its beautiful lakeshore backdrop, lively farmers markets, and incredible cultural events,Madison is an ideal place to live and visit!

Things to do in Des Plaines?
Des Plaines, Illinois is a vibrant and thriving city located just outside of Chicago. This bustling town offers a unique mix of small town charm and big city energy with plenty of shops, restaurants, parks, and attractions. There are also several concert venues, theatres, and museums to explore while in Des Plaines. Visitors can also enjoy a wide array of activities from antiquing to golfing if they're looking for something more active. Whatever you choose to do there's no doubt that Des Plaines will make your stay enjoyable!

 Madison, WIDes Plaines, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock60,413329,725,481
 Median Income$70,466  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock42.338.4
 Avg. Home Price$337,500  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time19.43  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Madison    78 Reviews

Unfortunately, a number of these reviews are politically based. Madison remains the only shining star in Wisconsin’s economy. The economy is broadly based, with  More

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Have been living in Madison for almost 3 years. It’s very safe, ppl generally friendly and for a town of its size it has fair number of good restaurants and interesting  More

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Lacks balance and zero accountability.   More

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Reviews for Des Plaines    4 Reviews

Over 15 years ago

low  More

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Over 16 years ago

The historic center of des plaines is also downtown. Fairly easy commute to Chicago. The metra is right there. Also there is the Des Plaines public library with a great  More

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Over 18 years ago

Changing of the seasons is good. But it's too cold for too  More

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