DeKalb, IL vs Sterling, IL

There is a significant gap in the cost of living between these two cities. Sterling is 26.7% cheaper than DeKalb. With a cost index of 66 vs 84, the difference would have a meaningful impact on a household's monthly budget. Someone relocating from Sterling 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 $780/month in Sterling — a 32% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: Sterling is more affordable at $107,800 median vs $202,900.

Median household income in DeKalb is $46,564 compared to $52,647 in Sterling (-11.6%). Sterling 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 Sterling.