DeKalb, IL vs Springfield, IL

Springfield is moderately more affordable than DeKalb, with a 14.5% lower cost of living index. DeKalb scores 84 compared to 73 for Springfield, where the US average is 100. This difference means residents of DeKalb can expect to pay noticeably more for everyday expenses, housing, and services.

On the housing front, median rent in DeKalb is $1,030/month compared to $945/month in Springfield — a 9% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Springfield is more affordable at $155,200 median vs $202,900.

Median household income in DeKalb is $46,564 compared to $65,537 in Springfield (-29%). Springfield 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 17.3% in Springfield.