2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Oak Park, IL vs Normal, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Normal older or younger than people in Oak Park?
- The Median Age in Normal is 14.8 years younger than in Oak Park.

Are housing costs cheaper in Normal or Oak Park?
- Normal housing costs are 48.2% less expensive than Oak Park housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Normal or Oak Park?
- The average commute for residents of Normal is 17.1 minutes shorter than it is for residents of Oak Park.

Things to do in Oak Park?
Oak Park, Illinois is a vibrant village situated on the West Side of Chicago. Featuring well-preserved architecture, charming tree-lined streets, and a variety of shops and restaurants, Oak Park provides a unique blend of city amenities and suburban charm. Families with children will appreciate its excellent school district, while cultural enthusiasts can explore its various art galleries and historic sites. From its laidback cafes to its tightknit community spirit, Oak Park is the perfect place for anyone looking to experience the best that Illinois has to offer!

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!

 Oak Park, ILNormal, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,446329,725,481
 Median Income$98,081  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$405,000  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time34.85  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Oak Park    7 Reviews

We've lived in Oak Park for 25 years, raising our two children here. Now, looking ahead a few years, the Cost of Living (127), is a major factor in searching for  More

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I have grew up in the Oak Park area and have lived in other cities in the country. Oak Park is located outside of the city of Chicago. Though located reasonably  More

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Over 15 years ago

If you don't know any better you might think Oak Park is perfect. However, if you are like me and have other places as a comparison, you know better. I will say that  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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