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

Change Cities
Highlights
Are people in Normal older or younger than people in Springfield?
- The Median Age in Normal is 14.6 years younger than in Springfield.

Are housing costs cheaper in Normal or Springfield?
- Normal housing costs are 57.4% more expensive than Springfield housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, Normal or Springfield?
- The average commute for residents of Normal is 0.3 minutes longer than it is for residents of Springfield.

Things to do in Springfield?
Springfield, Illinois is a vibrant and charming city in the heart of the state. Known for being the home of Abraham Lincoln, this city is steeped in history, offering museums and tours that explore its incredible legacy. However, it's also an incredibly modern city, full of great restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping opportunities. Sports fans can enjoy a range of professional teams while outdoor enthusiasts have access to numerous nearby parks and trails. With a pleasant climate year-round, Springfield is an excellent destination for anyone looking to explore Central Illinois!

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!

 Springfield, ILNormal, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock53,446329,725,481
 Median Income$57,596  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$133,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock4.4%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.55  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Springfield    25 Reviews

I've lived here for over 40 years. Springfield is a decent place to raise a family. Solid midwestern values, and I've always felt safe. Opportunities exist, but there  More

   |    Reply

I moved (back) to Springfield after living in various cities and towns around the country - as large as Milwaukee, as small as Baker, NV - and can say without  More

   |    Reply

hugh · 
Over 4 years ago

whole town smells like dirty ***** and  More

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Springfield

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

   |    Reply

Over 16 years ago

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

   |    Reply

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

   |    Reply

Start Your Review of Normal


Premium Subscription
Includes Cost of Living compares for child care, utilities, transportation, health, taxes, housing for home owners vs renters, weather, insurance premiums and so much more.


The premier source for comprehensive city data for over 30 years.

© Best Places. All rights reserved.