2026 Compare Cities Overview:
Normal, IL vs West Lafayette, IN

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Highlights
Are people in West Lafayette older or younger than people in Normal?
- The Median Age in West Lafayette is 3.6 years younger than in Normal.

Are housing costs cheaper in West Lafayette or Normal?
- West Lafayette housing costs are 45.9% more expensive than Normal housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, West Lafayette or Normal?
- The average commute for residents of West Lafayette is 2.2 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Normal.

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!

Things to do in West Lafayette?
West Lafayette, IN is a vibrant city located in Tippecanoe County in north-central Indiana. Home to Purdue University, the community of West Lafayette offers its residents access to world-class education facilities and a thriving economy. The area features several parks and recreational areas perfect for outdoor activities such as biking along the Wabash River or playing baseball at Howard Park. Residents also appreciate being surrounded by a variety of restaurants, unique shops, art galleries and other amenities that make living here so enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to explore nature’s beauty or just want to experience a lively college town atmosphere, West Lafayette is sure to please!

 Normal, ILWest Lafayette, INUnited States
 Population  Unlock44,515329,725,481
 Median Income$58,564  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock21.538.4
 Avg. Home Price$209,800  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock2.9%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.8  Unlock26.38
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 17 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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Reviews for West Lafayette    11 Reviews

I am originally from Greencastle, Indiana, a nice friendly rural town and home to DePauw University. Presently, I live in West Lafayette, Indiana, due to my having been  More

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Over 12 years ago

It's a nice small town. It's too bad it's not closer to Indy. I think I would like it here  More

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Over 15 years ago

They have good schools, parks and always have events to  More

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