DeKalb, IL vs Swansea, IL

DeKalb, IL and Swansea, IL have a very similar cost of living, with only a 3% difference in their overall index. DeKalb scores 84 while Swansea scores 86 on the cost of living index, where 100 represents the national average. The day-to-day expenses for residents in both cities are comparable, though differences emerge when looking at specific categories.

On the housing front, median rent in DeKalb is $1,030/month compared to $1,178/month in Swansea — a 13% difference. Home values follow the same pattern: DeKalb is more affordable at $202,900 median vs $211,700.

Median household income in DeKalb is $46,564 compared to $84,367 in Swansea (-44.8%). While Swansea is more expensive, its higher salaries more than compensate — residents there may actually end up with more disposable income. Looking at affordability, residents of DeKalb spend roughly 26.5% of their income on rent, more than the 16.8% in Swansea.