2025 Compare Cities Overview:
Sterling, IL vs Carbondale, IL

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Highlights
Are people in Carbondale older or younger than people in Sterling?
- The Median Age in Carbondale is 17.9 years younger than in Sterling.

Are housing costs cheaper in Carbondale or Sterling?
- Carbondale housing costs are 4.3% more expensive than Sterling housing costs.

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

Things to do in Sterling?
Sterling is an incorporated city located in Whiteside County, Illinois offering plenty of attractions such as exploring its multiple trails ideal for biking or jogging plus nearby Rock Falls Rapids Nature Preserve provides amazing views close by. There are also numerous shops and eateries providing unique itemsor delicious cuisine perfectfor anyone looking to have a meal out during their visit here!

Things to do in Carbondale?
Carbondale, Illinois is a vibrant city located in the heart of Southern Illinois. Visitors will find plenty to do and explore, including popular attractions like the Giant City State Park and Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge. The town boasts a thriving cultural scene with festivals, events, and live music venues all year round. Shopping enthusiasts will enjoy browsing through the abundance of eclectic specialty stores and boutiques. Those looking for outdoor adventure can take part in activities like kayaking or mountain biking at nearby Shawnee National Forest. With its diverse culture and plenty of recreational opportunities, Carbondale is an ideal destination for visitors looking to experience the best that Southern Illinois has to offer.

 Sterling, ILCarbondale, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock22,388329,725,481
 Median Income$47,778  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock24.838.4
 Avg. Home Price$111,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock6.7%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time16.11  Unlock26.38
Reviews for Sterling    1 Reviews

Over 4 years ago

my child was not veery safe in his manger. many storms, too dangerous, lost kid in storm. a twelve year old tried to sell me nicotine!!!!! <3  More

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Reviews for Carbondale    7 Reviews

I've lived in C'dale for over 30 years. I got an excellent education here - Giant City School was great, though fairly insular and not very diverse (among its drawbacks  More

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Over 17 years ago

I like Carbondale. It is relaxing and an easy way to go about getting a college degree. It has its ups and downs, mainly with the people in the town not recognizing the  More

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All of the comments are negative here and seem to me to be misleading. The idea that you have to have a lot of money in Carbondale is ridiculous. The price of cultural  More

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