DeKalb County Map, Illinois

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: April 26, 2026 | 14:30 ET

Map of DeKalb County - DeKalb County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. DeKalb County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is DeKalb County located in the map, major cities in DeKalb county, population, areas, and places of interest.

DeKalb County Map, Illinois

DeKalb County Map, Illinois

About DeKalb County Map, Illinois: The map showing the county boundary, county seat, major cities, highways, water bodies and neighbouring counties.

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DeKalb County, Illinois

DeKalb County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. It's county seat is Sycamore. As per 2020 census, the population of DeKalb County is 100414 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 631 sq mi (1,634 km2). DeKalb County was established on 1837.

Facts about DeKalb County, Illinois

CountryUnited States
StateIllinois
RegionNorthern Illinois
County SeatSycamore
Named AfterJohann de Kalb
Established1837
Organized1837
Coordinates41.93° N, 88.77° W
Total Area~635 sq mi
Land Area~631 sq mi
Water Area~4 sq mi
Population (2020)~100,420
Population RankOne of the more populous counties in Illinois
Largest CityDeKalb
Main IndustriesEducation, Manufacturing, Agriculture, Healthcare
Major UniversityNorthern Illinois University
Time ZoneCentral Time (UTC−06:00)
Known ForHigher education, agricultural research, suburban growth
Websitehttps://www.dekalbcounty.org

Ctities in DeKalb county

City NameTypePopulation (2020)Pop. DensityArea
CortlandTown4,3981,205.3/sq mi (465.4/km2)3.649 sq mi (9.45 km2)
DeKalbCity40,2902,494.7/sq mi (963.2/km2)16.15 sq mi (41.83 km2)
GenoaCity5,2982,045.6/sq mi (789.8/km2)2.59 sq mi (6.71 km2)
HinckleyVillage2,0062,368.4/sq mi (914.4/km2)0.847 sq mi (2.19 km2)
KingstonVillage1,1081,126.0/sq mi (434.8/km2)0.984 sq mi (2.55 km2)
KirklandVillage1,6501,345.8/sq mi (519.6/km2)1.226 sq mi (3.18 km2)
MaltaVillage1,1431,867.6/sq mi (721.1/km2)0.612 sq mi (1.59 km2)
ShabbonaVillage863672.6/sq mi (259.7/km2)1.283 sq mi (3.32 km2)
SycamoreCity18,5771,835.7/sq mi (708.8/km2)10.12 sq mi (26.21 km2)
WatermanVillage1,433987.6/sq mi (381.3/km2)1.451 sq mi (3.76 km2)
SandwichCity7,2211,524.7/sq mi (588.7/km2)4.736 sq mi (12.27 km2)
SomonaukVillage1,786717.8/sq mi (277.2/km2)2.488 sq mi (6.44 km2)
Maple ParkVillage1,433665.3/sq mi (256.9/km2)2.154 sq mi (5.58 km2)
LeeVillage3131,580.8/sq mi (610.4/km2)0.198 sq mi (0.51 km2)

Roads and Highways in DeKalb County, Illinois

DeKalb County is well-connected by major highways that provide easy access to Chicago, Rockford, and surrounding parts of northern Illinois.

  • Interstate 88 – runs east-west through the county, connecting DeKalb to Chicago and the Quad Cities
  • U.S. Route 30 – parallels I-88, linking DeKalb to Rochelle and Aurora
  • Illinois Route 23 – runs north-south, connecting Sycamore to DeKalb and Sandwich
  • Illinois Route 38 – runs east-west, linking DeKalb to Rochelle and Geneva
  • Illinois Route 72 – crosses the northern part of the county, connecting Kirkland to Genoa

Neighboring Counties of DeKalb County

  • Boone County (north)
  • McHenry County (northeast)
  • Kane County (east)
  • Kendall County (southeast)
  • LaSalle County (south)
  • Lee County (west)
  • Ogle County (northwest)

Top Attractions in DeKalb County, Illinois

DeKalb County offers a mix of college-town energy, historic sites, and outdoor recreation centered around DeKalb and Sycamore.

  • Northern Illinois University – A major campus known for its events, museums, and scenic grounds.
  • Ellwood House Museum – A historic mansion and museum in DeKalb showcasing local history.
  • Sycamore Historic District – Features charming streets, historic homes, and local shops.
  • Hopkins Park – A popular park with trails, sports facilities, and community events.
  • Kishwaukee River Forest Preserve – Offers hiking, fishing, and scenic river views.
  • Egyptian Theatre – A historic theater hosting live performances and films.
  • Shabbona Lake State Park (nearby) – Known for fishing, camping, and outdoor recreation.
  • Downtown Sycamore – A vibrant area with dining, shopping, and seasonal festivals.

Distance from DeKalb County to Nearby Cities

  • DeKalb to Chicago – 65 mi (105 km)
  • DeKalb to Rockford – 35 mi (56 km)
  • DeKalb to Aurora – 30 mi (48 km)
  • DeKalb to Joliet – 60 mi (97 km)
  • DeKalb to Naperville – 45 mi (72 km)

FAQs about DeKalb County

Where is DeKalb County located?

DeKalb County is located in northern Illinois, west of Chicago and near several suburban and rural communities.

What is DeKalb County known for?

The county is known for Northern Illinois University, historic sites, and its mix of urban and rural landscapes.

What is the county seat of DeKalb County?

Sycamore is the county seat of DeKalb County.

Are there outdoor activities in DeKalb County?

Yes, visitors can enjoy parks, forest preserves, rivers, and nearby state parks for outdoor recreation.

How can I reach DeKalb County?

DeKalb County is accessible via Interstate 88, U.S. Route 30, and several Illinois state highways.