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

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Highlights
Are people in DeKalb older or younger than people in Sterling?
- The Median Age in DeKalb is 17.6 years younger than in Sterling.

Are housing costs cheaper in DeKalb or Sterling?
- DeKalb housing costs are 84.9% more expensive than Sterling housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, DeKalb or Sterling?
- The average commute for residents of DeKalb is 5.0 minutes longer 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 DeKalb?
DeKalb, Illinois sits within DeKalb County providing visitors great culture attractions from Egyptian Theater to Northern Illinois University Convocation Center as well as plenty of restaurants like Kishwaukee Tap.

 Sterling, ILDeKalb, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock41,083329,725,481
 Median Income$47,778  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$111,400  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%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 Dekalb    2 Reviews

Over 17 years ago

While I love the cheaper rents then in the closer suburbs (to Chicago), the lack of high paying jobs for anyone without high degrees (Masters or higher) is  More

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As a 37 year resident of DeKalb - an escapee of the Chicago suburbs, I am pleased to write a bit about my hometown. Originally a college town in a farming community,  More

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