Lincoln, NE vs Normal, IL
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.
Lincoln
78.7
#164 nationally
Normal
76.8
#316 nationally
Lincoln leads in cost of living index (90 vs 97). Normal leads in average commute (17.2 min vs 18.4 min). Lincoln leads in walk score (42 vs 40).
Metric-by-Metric Breakdown
| Metric | Lincoln, NE | Normal, IL |
|---|---|---|
| WhereAtHome Score | 78.7 (#164) | 76.8 (#316) |
| Population | 295,222 | 52,618 |
| Typical Home Value (ZHVI) | $295,359 | $269,069 |
| Median Household Income | $63,126 | $63,965 |
| Average Commute | 18.4 min | 17.2 min |
| Walk Score | 42 | 40 |
| Crime Level | Low | 9.0 |
| School Rating | 7.4 | N/A |
| Cost of Living Index | 90 | 97 |
| Political lean County 2024 presidential margin — context only, not scored | D+4.3 | D+4.9 |
C+
78.7 Score
Lincoln, NE
University town with capital charm
Median Home
$295,359
Population
295,222
Crime
Low
Schools
B+
Midwest
View Lincoln, NE →
C
76.8 Score
Normal, IL
Illinois community balancing growth and livability
Median Home
$269,069
Population
52,618
Crime
Moderate
Walk Score
40
Midwest
View Normal, IL →