Your complete guide to business transactions in a dynamic university town. Northern Illinois University, agricultural heritage, and growing innovation economy.
DeKalb is home to Northern Illinois University (NIU), creating a vibrant college town atmosphere with a diverse economy. The city combines its agricultural heritage (birthplace of barbed wire) with modern technology and manufacturing sectors.
NIU's 16,000+ students and thousands of faculty and staff create consistent demand for restaurants, retail, and services. The city also hosts major employers like 3M and Nestle Purina, while the NIU Research Park fosters innovation and startups. DeKalb's location between Chicago and Rockford provides regional market access.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Population | 43,849 |
| Total Businesses | 1,900+ |
| Average Business Sale Price | $205,000 |
| Median Time to Sell | 11 months |
| Top Industries | Restaurants, Retail, Manufacturing, Professional Services, Healthcare |
| Region | Northern Illinois |
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