DeKalb, IL vs Memphis, TN
Side-by-side comparison of housing, income, commute, safety, and quality of life.
Score Snapshot
No universal winner
Scores summarize the published model. Use the objective metric differences below and your own priorities to choose.
DeKalb
71.1
#1018 nationally
Memphis
76
#398 nationally
DeKalb leads in crime level (10.8 vs 68.5). DeKalb leads in walk score (38 vs 35). Memphis leads in cost of living index (91 vs 98).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | DeKalb, IL | Memphis, TN |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 71.1 (#1018) | 76 (#398) |
| Population | 40,211 | 618,639 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $266,477 | $144,877 |
| Median Household Income | $47,410 | $48,090 |
| Average Commute | 22.5 min | 21.6 min |
| Walk Score | 38 | 35 |
| Crime Level | 10.8 | 68.5 |
| School Rating | N/A | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 98 | 91 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+2.0 | D+25.4 |
C-
71.1 Score
DeKalb, IL
Small Illinois city with local appeal
Median Home
$266,477
Population
40,211
Crime
Moderate-High
Walk Score
38
Midwest
View DeKalb, IL →
C
76 Score
Memphis, TN
Major Tennessee city with a diverse economy
Median Home
$144,877
Population
618,639
Crime
Very High
Walk Score
35
Southeast
View Memphis, TN →