DeKalb, IL vs Dixon, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Dixon is 21.1% cheaper than DeKalb. With a cost index of 69 vs 84, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Dixon to DeKalb should plan for substantially higher expenses across most categories.

On the housing front, median rent in DeKalb is $1,030/month compared to $865/month in Dixon — a 19% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Dixon is more affordable at $113,300 median vs $202,900.

Median household income in DeKalb is $46,564 compared to $58,371 in Dixon (-20.2%). Dixon offers a double advantage: higher earnings combined with a lower cost of living, giving residents significantly more purchasing power. Looking at affordability, residents of DeKalb spend roughly 26.5% of their income on rent, more than the 17.8% in Dixon.