2

DeKalb, IL Houses for Rent

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  • /19

    $1,875 Per Month

    • 3 Beds
    • 1.5 Baths
    • House for Rent

    240 W Locust St, DeKalb, IL 60115

    Charming 2-Story Brick Home Near Downtown & NIUThis meticulously kept 3-bedroom, 1.5-bath brick home offers the perfect blend of vintage character and modern convenience, located just blocks from Dekalb's downtown shops/dining/entertainment and close to Northern Illinois University campus.Step inside to a spacious, sun-filled living room featuring beautiful original hardwood

    240 W Locust St, DeKalb, IL 60115
  • /19

    $2,625 Per Month

    • 4 Beds
    • 2 Baths
    • House for Rent

    436 Russell Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115

    This spacious four bedroom plus study is conveniently located less than 5 minutes from the NIU campus, 5 minutes from downtown DeKalb, and 15 minutes from major shopping centers on Sycamore Road. The home features two full kitchens and baths, sizeable gathering spaces including a loft, one car garage, and a large back yard. Home includes all major appliances including washer and dryer, central

    436 Russell Rd, DeKalb, IL 60115

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to rent a single-family home in DeKalb, IL?
The median rent for a single-family home in DeKalb, IL is $2,000 per month, though prices vary by neighborhood, size, and property type. As of June 2026, condos tend to be the most affordable option while townhouses and single-family homes are currently more expensive.
How much do you need to make to afford rent in DeKalb, IL?
To comfortably afford the median rent in DeKalb, IL, a household needs to earn roughly $44,800 per year. This is based on the common guideline that households should spend no more than 30% of gross income on housing. Most landlords require monthly household income of at least 3x the monthly rent, and with a median rent of $1,120 per month in DeKalb, IL, renters typically need to show $3,360 per month in gross income to qualify. Actual affordability will vary depending on household debts, other living expenses, and overall budget.
Is it more affordable to rent or buy in DeKalb, IL?
In DeKalb, IL, the price-to-rent ratio is 19.7, which generally favors renting. This ratio divides the median home price by the annual median rent: below 15 typically favors buying, 15 to 20 is balanced, and above 20 typically favors renting. Your finances, how long you plan to stay, and costs like mortgage rates, taxes, and maintenance all factor into the decision.

Rental Home Trends in DeKalb, IL

Rental Home Trends

Number of Houses for Rent
2
Median Single Family Home Rent
$2,000
Median 3 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$1,850
Median 4 Bedroom Single Family Home Rent
$2,563
How to Rent a Home