2025 Compare Cities Overview:
West Des Moines, IA vs DeKalb, IL

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Highlights
Are people in DeKalb older or younger than people in West Des Moines?
- The Median Age in DeKalb is 11.0 years younger than in West Des Moines.

Are housing costs cheaper in DeKalb or West Des Moines?
- DeKalb housing costs are 27.0% less expensive than West Des Moines housing costs.

Which city has a longer commute, DeKalb or West Des Moines?
- The average commute for residents of DeKalb is 3.9 minutes longer than it is for residents of West Des Moines.

Things to do in West Des Moines?
West Des Moines, Iowa is a vibrant city located in the greater Des Moines area. This lively town offers an array of exciting attractions for visitors to explore such as the beautiful Living History Farms or the thrilling Adventureland Amusement Park. Residents here also enjoy plenty of outdoor activities at Raccoon River or Water Works Park. With its excellent school systems, thriving businesses, and wide range of recreational activities, it's no wonder why so many people choose to make West Des Moines their home.

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.

 West Des Moines, IADeKalb, ILUnited States
 Population  Unlock41,083329,725,481
 Median Income$76,564  Unlock$69,021
 Median Age  Unlock25.138.4
 Avg. Home Price$282,300  Unlock$338,100
 Unemployment Rate  Unlock7.0%6.0%
 Avg. Commute Time17.17  Unlock26.38
Reviews for West Des Moines    4 Reviews

Over 16 years ago

I just moved here from out-of-state a few months ago and have been pleasantly surprised by the broad range of activities and amenities available in this medium sized IA  More

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Over 16 years ago

Am contemplating a move to WDM from the East Coast (NYC). Might there be anyone out there that may have experienced this and could offer guidance or comment. Thanks.   More

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We just moved to West Des Moines and we love it here! We moved here three months ago and every weekend we have been able to do something different and fun. There is  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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