Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Dekalb, IL
Considering a move to DeKalb, IL? Home to around 40,000 residents, DeKalb offers affordable living with a median home price of $190,000 and average rents near $1,100. With a youthful vibe thanks to Northern Illinois University, you'll enjoy a short 20-minute average commute, a cost of living well below the national average, and access to high-quality healthcare. DeKalb features diverse schools, a moderate crime rate, and classic Midwest seasons with 54% sunny days—making it a practical and friendly option for students, families, and professionals alike.
Demographics - Dekalb, IL
Demographics - Dekalb, IL
DeKalb, Illinois is a youthful and diverse city with a population of about 40,000 and a median age of 24.6, reflecting its vibrant college town atmosphere. The community is made up of a mix of backgrounds, with over half identifying as White and notable Black and Asian populations, plus 13.5% non-English speakers, creating a culturally rich environment.
Population:
40,290
Density:
2,900 per sq mi
Median Age:
24.6
Gender Ratio:
97 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
13.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
59.3%
Black:
16.8%
Asian:
5.0%
Others:
18.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Dekalb, IL?
Living in DeKalb is budget-friendly, with a median home price of $190,000 and average monthly rent around $1,100, making housing significantly more affordable than many parts of Illinois. The cost of living index is 88.6, meaning residents benefit from lower costs on essentials like groceries, utilities, and transportation.
Median House Value:
$190,000
Gross Rent:
$1,100
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$110
Auto Insurance:
$1,250
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,430
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$540
State Taxes:
Low:
4.95%
|
High:
4.95%
Cost Of Living Index:
88.6
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
72.0
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
93.5
Health Care:
95.4
Miscellaneous:
95.2
Crime
Is Dekalb, IL a safe place to live?
DeKalb experiences a moderate crime rate, with a 1 in 395 chance of being affected by violent crime and a 1 in 62 chance for property crime. While the city is safer than some urban areas, it's wise for residents to take standard precautions to protect themselves and their property.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
253
Property Crimes Per 100k:
1,624
Crime Index:
1,877
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 395
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 62
Weather
What is the weather like in Dekalb, IL year-round?
Residents of DeKalb enjoy classic Midwest seasons, experiencing warm summers with highs in the low 80s and cold winters dipping into the teens. The area receives about 37 inches of annual rainfall and sees sunshine 54% of the year, offering a balanced mix of weather throughout the seasons.
Winter
Min:
13°F
Max:
31°F
Spring
Min:
39°F
Max:
64°F
Summer
Min:
60°F
Max:
83°F
Fall
Min:
40°F
Max:
65°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
36.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
54%
Neighbors
DeKalb's neighborhoods are home to a wide range of residents, with the median household income at $51,800 and a poverty rate of 24.8%. Most adults have at least a high school education, and the average commute is a quick 20 minutes, making for a convenient and community-focused lifestyle.
Median Income:
$25,100
Household Income:
$51,800
Family Income:
$70,900
Per Capita Income:
$22,200
Income Male:
$31,000
Income Female:
$26,000
Poverty Rate:
24.8%
Non English Speakers:
13.5%
Rent:
$1,100
Unemployment Rate:
7.2%
Public Transport Usage:
2.2%
Commute Time:
20.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
92.4%
Bachelors or More:
32.9%
Education
How are the schools in Dekalb, IL?
DeKalb offers a strong educational environment, highlighted by public schools like DeKalb High School and a range of private options. The city is also home to Northern Illinois University, bringing higher education opportunities and a dynamic, youthful presence to the community.
Public Schools
Name:
DeKalb High School
Street:
501 W Dresser Rd
Phone:
815-754-2120
Students:
1,900
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.8
Name:
Clinton Rosette Middle School
Street:
650 N 1st St
Phone:
815-754-2226
Students:
750
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Private Schools
Name:
St. Mary Catholic School
Street:
210 Gurler Rd
Phone:
815-756-7905
Students:
220
Colleges
Name:
Northern Illinois University
City:
DeKalb
State:
IL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
15,600
Healthcare
Healthcare in DeKalb is anchored by Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital, providing comprehensive emergency and surgical services. With nearly 2 physicians per 1,000 residents and a 91% health insurance coverage rate, locals have access to quality healthcare close to home.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital
Address:
1 Kish Hospital Dr, DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone:
(815) 756-1521
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
91.0%
Health Care Index:
76.4
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Dekalb, IL?
The housing market in DeKalb is accessible, with median home prices at $190,000 and average rent for a two-bedroom apartment at $1,100. Homeownership rates are lower than average, reflecting the city's student population, while a steady home appreciation rate and low foreclosure rates contribute to a stable market.
Median Home Price:
$190,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,100
Owner Occupied Rate:
36.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.4%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
2.9%
New Construction Rate:
0.7%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.6%
DMV Information
Residents can handle their driving and vehicle needs at the Illinois Secretary of State Driver Services Facility located on Oakwood Ave. The office provides essential DMV services, and more information is available through the state's official website.
State:
Illinois
Department:
Illinois Secretary of State – Driver Services Facility
Address:
1360 Oakwood Ave, DeKalb, IL 60115
Phone:
(800) 252-8980
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.