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Best Places To Live in Illinois

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Best Places To Live in Illinois

Rich in history, culture and farmland, Illinois is a great place to hang your hat. Read on to explore the best places to live in Illinois!

By Livability on February 22, 2024

Most people who make their home in Illinois can tell you the state has a rich and varied history. It played a crucial role in the United States’ westward expansion, acting as a gateway to the frontier, hosting momentous events like the Lincoln-Douglas debates and contributing significantly to the Union cause during the Civil War. Today, life in Illinois offers a diverse and vibrant quality of life, albeit a more modern one. 

Chicago, the state’s largest city, is a global hub for culture, commerce and innovation, renowned for its famous architecture, engaging museums and international cuisine. Bountiful farmlands, picturesque rural communities, and the natural beauty of places like Starved Rock State Park and Shawnee National Forest also characterize the state. With a thriving economy, excellent educational institutions and a wealth of recreational opportunities, Illinois is a great place to live for people who want to enjoy the best of both urban sophistication and rural tranquility. Read on to explore the best cities to live in Illinois.

Bloomington

City Hall building in historic downtown Bloomington, Illinois. Bloomington is one of the best cities to live in Illinois.
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City Hall in historic downtown Bloomington, Illinois. Abraham Lincoln practiced law in this building.

Why Bloomington is one of the best cities to live in Illinois.

Just over 175,000 people make their homes in Bloomington, and they would quickly share that their reasons are plentiful. From the lively urban atmosphere to the iconic Midwestern hospitality, few things detract from putting down roots in this cheerful and friendly community. One of the significant perks of making a home here is the convenient location. Because three major roads run through the city, it’s easy for commuters to hop over to Chicago, St. Louis and Indianapolis. You can also use the train and bus stations to navigate various parts of the city depending on where you want to go and when. 

Transportation aside, Bloomington has something to offer everyone. From historic highlights and art galleries to craft breweries and live performances, the city boasts activities and events for people of all ages and walks of life. Families, particularly, appreciate the strong schools and many indoor and outdoor amenities. Young professionals find work-balance satisfaction with the combination of significant employers, such as State Farm Insurance and Rivian, and a lower-than-average cost of living. With plenty to do and see and enough wiggle room in the budget to live a high quality of life, it’s no surprise people are eager to settle down in Bloomington. 

What is Bloomington known for?

Ask 10 different people what Bloomington is known for, and you’ll hear 10 different answers. Some associate it with the Corn Belt because of its central location in the state. Others would say that it’s because Bloomington is home to Illinois Wesleyan University but is also conveniently located near Illinois State University, Heartland Community College and Eureka College in the greater Bloomington-Normal metro area. But others, in a funny turn of events, might inform you that Bloomington is the birthplace of the well-known brand of bar snacks, Beer Nuts.

Read more about living in Bloomington, IL.

Champaign

A couple walking through downtown Champaign, Illinois.

Why is Champaign one of the best places to live in Illinois?

It won’t take long to see the appeal of Champaign. This is especially true for foodies, art enthusiasts and anyone seeking a life rich in outdoor adventure, but that just scratches the surface of the many reasons Champaign is a great place to live. For starters, this steadily growing city of more than 89,000 people earned the title of Midwest Living’s Greatest Midwest Food Town. Furthermore, they boast an abundance of public art, live performance venues and lively festivals and events that draw in residents and tourists alike. And if that weren’t enough, you could spend ages exploring the wealth of parks and forest preserves, including Homer Lake Forest Preserve, which is notably a family-friendly favorite with its unique natural playscape. 

As far as the economy is concerned, the city boasts a robust local landscape driven by its role as a major educational and technological hub in the state. Champaign is anchored by the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which serves as a steady source of employment and an engine for research and innovation. The technology sector includes Research Park and several high-tech companies, and the health care, retail and manufacturing industries are also growing. The stable economy here also makes Champaign an excellent place for entrepreneurs to launch their businesses. Tack on the reasonable cost of living and attractive affordability for young professionals and growing families alike, and you might find yourself keen on moving to Champaign, too.

How is the school system in Champaign?

The Champaign Unit 4 School District oversees the city’s public schools and operates several elementary, middle, and high schools and alternative and magnet programs. Many schools in Champaign have received recognition for their achievements, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign contributes even more resources to the community. Families can also take advantage of the local libraries, museums, and community centers that provide enrichment for residents of all ages. 

Read more about living in Champaign, IL.

Downers Grove

Aerial view of Downers Grove, IL, in summer.
Shutterstock/Jacob Boomsma
An aerial view of Downers Grove, Illinois, a Chicago suburb known for beautiful neighborhoods and plentiful parks.

Why Downers Grove is one of the best cities to live in Illinois.

Living in Downers Grove means you can soak up the best of suburban charm and modern amenities. This vibrant community has a growing reputation for beautiful neighborhoods, excellent schools, and a deep-rooted sense of community among neighbors, all at a significantly lower price than you’d find in Chicago. Plenty of recreational opportunities, including parks, nature trails and several annual events, make it an ideal place to raise a family. The historic downtown acts as a bonus and features everything from delectable restaurants to burgeoning boutiques. The village is also known for having a robust public school system, making it an attractive destination for those hoping to raise their children in a safe and flourishing environment. 

One of the most notable features of Downers Grove is its dedication to preserving natural beauty. The village boasts an impressive network of parks, like the scenic Lyman Woods, an urban forest preserve that nature enthusiasts are guaranteed to enjoy. Throughout the year, you’ll also find many events and festivals to attend, including the popular Heritage Festival, which brings everyone together for music, feasting and fun. Whether you want to spend your days exploring the landscape, participating in cultural activities or taking advantage of family-friendly amenities, Downers Grove is a serious contender for anyone hoping to put down roots somewhere that combines work and play. 

What is the economy like in Downers Grove?

Downers Grove is strategically located in the Chicago metropolitan area, which means residents have convenient access to the wealth of job opportunities downtown and in its surrounding suburbs. The village itself is home to many corporate headquarters and office parks, and some of its major industries include health care, technology, finance and professional services.

Read more about living in Downers Grove, IL

Evanston

An aerial view of the Grosse Pointe Lighthouse in Evanston, Illinois.

What makes Evanston a great place to live in Illinois?

Home to the widely recognized Northwestern University, Evanston is a town of around 75,000 people located 30 minutes north of downtown Chicago. In addition to the renowned university, you can also find local gems like Evanston History Center in a chateau-style mansion called the Charles Gates Dawes House, the Halim Time & Glass Museum that features more than 1,1000 pieces of stained glass, the watchful Grosse Point Lighthouse, and just under 90 different restaurants and cafes that range from French and Asian to Italian and Japanese. If that weren’t enough, consider that there are enough breweries to satisfy even the pickiest drinker, including hotspots like Peckish Pig and Temperance Beer Company. 

Because Evanston is the first suburb you find north of the city, which is easily accessible by the Chicago Transit Authority, it’s inarguably a solid home base for those who want to save a little money and are planning to commute downtown for work. But it’s worth noting that Evanston presents plenty of jobs in industries like education, health care and research, as well as retail and professional services in the vibrant downtown district. Northwestern University is undoubtedly a significant employer in academia and its associated fields, and the university draws plenty of recent graduates who want to plant roots in the community. Still, Evanston Hospital, Evanston/Skokie School District 65, and Rotary International are among the top employers in the area. 

What is there to do outside in Evanston?

The proximity to Lake Michigan makes Evanston a great place to get outside. Lakefront parks like Clark Street Beach and Lighthouse Beach are local favorites for sunbathing, swimming and picnicking in the warmer months, and the extensive network of parks like Dawes Park with its outdoor events and concerts and Ladd Arboretum with its nature trails and green spaces add to the local landscape. The Evanston Ecology Center and Perkins Woods Nature Preserve are equally worth a visit, and the Robert Crown Community Center is the place to go for ice skating and other athletic ventures all year round.

Read more about living in Evanston, IL.

Naperville

A view of the riverwalk in Naperville, Illinois. Naperville is a best place to live in Illinois.
iStock/DenistangneyJr
A view of the riverwalk in Naperville, Illinois. Naperville is considered the wealthiest area in the Midwest.

Why Naperville is a best place to live in Illinois.

Naperville is known for being one of the largest suburbs of Chicago, but there’s much more to this burgeoning community than meets the eye. The proximity to downtown is an obvious perk, especially for those who anticipate a commute throughout the week, but another major perk of joining the 149,000 people who make their home here includes the family-friendly atmosphere. Naperville schools are considered top-notch, and the crime rate is an astonishing 91% lower than the national average. Those numbers make it an objectively safe place to live — not just in the state of Illinois but in the entire country. You’ll also find a multitude of child-friendly activities and attractions, such as the DuPage Children’s Museum and Knoch Knolls Nature Center. 

Not everyone wants to make the 28-mile drive into Chicago during the week. Fortunately, Naperville boasts its own lively economic market, with a wealth of job opportunities for those keen on building their career alongside their families and personal lives. Technology, education, health care and agriculture are among the top industries in the city, which is further enhanced by the great public transportation system that reduces the amount of time you spend in the car each morning. Coupled with the abundance of restaurants, parks and cultural attractions, Naperville is one excellent place to put down roots for anyone wanting to make their home in Illinois.

How is the cost of living in Naperville?

Naperville is a great place to live, but it comes at a price. The cost of living in Naperville is around 44% higher than the national average and 18% higher than the cost of living in Chicago. It’s considered the wealthiest area in the Midwest, meaning housing is in high demand. If you want to live in Naperville, make sure you take the cost into account. 

Read more about living in Naperville, IL.

Oak Park

This cozy street in downtown Oak Park features brick paved roads, restaurants, gorgeous architecture, and home to Frank Lloyd Wright and Ernest Hemingway.
iStock/Joe Hendrickson
This cozy street in downtown Oak Park, IL, features brick paved roads, restaurants and gorgeous architecture.

What makes Oak Park a great place to live in Illinois.

With a standing reputation for architecture and history and a burgeoning distinction as one of the best cities in the state, Oak Park earns high marks as a great place to live in the Midwest. This popular village just west of Chicago is a hotspot for professionals and families alike, and many of the homes in the community were designed by the legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright. It’s also home to the famous Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, which draws in tourists from all over the globe. The city is naturally home to a vibrant and lively arts and culture scene that includes theaters, galleries and cultural events, and residents enjoy all manner of tree-lined streets, parks and deep community ties. Paired with the top-notch schools and easy transportation to Chicago via the Green Line “L” train, it’s no surprise this is a desirable place to live. 

Many praise Oak Park’s diverse and welcoming community, reflected in its wide range of dining and cultural festivals. Downtown is known as the “Arts District, ” a bustling epicenter rich in charming boutiques, eclectic restaurants and suburban cafes. Many locals attend the Oak Park Farmers’ Market in the warm months and linger among the numerous parks, trails, and other green spaces designed with outdoor recreation and community gatherings in mind. Whether you stroll through the historic neighborhoods, attend an annual festival, or dine at one of the many top-tier restaurants, you’ll likely find Oak Park a great place to settle down. 

What are some things to do for families in Oak Park? 

Touring the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, soaking up the sun at the Scoville Park splash pad, and exploring the Wonder Works Children’s Museum are just the start of the family-friendly activities available in Oak Park. The Oak Park Conservatory, with its vast collection of plants, and the Oak Park Public Library, with its multitude of story times, craft activities and educational workshops, are other popular pastimes among families in the area. Oak Park also has several parks with playgrounds, sports fields, and walking and biking paths, like Rehm Park and Longfellow Park. 

Read more about living in Oak Park, IL.

Peoria

View of Peoria's river front showing downtown buildings, bridge, the Illinois river, blue sky in background.
iStock/ghornephoto
Peoria, IL, is perched on the Illinois River, and its riverfront is lined with restaurants and cultural attractions.

Why is Peoria a great place to live in Illinois?

Peoria is a hidden gem in the heart of the Midwest, offering an irresistible quality of life that’s hard to pass up. Affordability is inarguably one of the city’s most attractive features, especially for young professionals and growing families who want to remain within driving distance of Chicago. The cost of living is significantly lower here than in many major metropolitan areas, which makes it easy to stretch your dollars without sacrificing quality-of-life amenities. Newcomers will find all manner of housing options, from charming historic homes to modern apartments, as well as many rental opportunities. 

Many people celebrate the strong sense of community in Peoria, and visitors are quick to agree that the neighborly vibe is both welcoming and friendly. The city hosts several cultural events and boasts a wealth of recreational opportunities, ranging from quality museums and theaters to a bustling arts scene and plenty of parks and green spaces. Exploring the Peoria Riverfront Museum, catching a show at the Peoria Civic Center, or wandering local art galleries are common pastimes. Ask any outdoor enthusiast what they like to do in Peoria, and you’ll probably hear something like boating, fishing and hiking along the Illinois River and other nearby parks. Another boon to the community is the number of excellent schools and health care facilities, which appeal to growing families and retirees alike. 

What is Peoria known for? 

Historically, Peoria was a hub of industry and innovation, particularly in manufacturing and agriculture. It was even known as a significant center for the production of alcoholic beverages, which earned it the nickname “Whiskey City.” Peoria is also closely associated with Caterpillar Inc., a global leader in heavy machinery manufacturing, which was founded in the city.

Read more about living in Peoria, IL.

Rockford

A view of the evening lights in downtown Rockford, Illinois. Rockford is a best place to live in Illinois.
iStock/DenisTangneyJr
A view of the evening lights in downtown Rockford, Illinois.

What makes Rockford a best place to live in Illinois?

Living in Rockford combines urban amenities and natural beauty. But it’s also known for having a vibrant community and diverse cultural attractions. The city hosts a lively art scene with many museums, theaters and galleries, like the popular Rockford Art Museum and the Coronado Performing Arts Center. Residents can easily access ample dining options, ranging from locally-owned eateries to internationally acclaimed restaurants. Locals also get to spend their time playing in what is arguably the wealthiest outdoor landscape in the county, complete with parks, forest preserves and the scenic Rock River, which means hiking, biking and water-based activities are just a hop, skip, and a jump away from your backdoor. Nature enthusiasts also cite the proximity to Rock Cut State Park and Anderson Japanese Gardens as a boon. 

Rockford has a strong sense of community, and residents take pride in their thriving hometown. The cost of living is affordable, making it an attractive place to raise a family or launch a career. The diverse economy includes a variety of industries, but the major players are often considered to be health care, manufacturing, and aerospace. Education is also a focal point, with a range of public and private schools, as well as the presence of Rockford University

What is Rockford known for? 

The earliest occupants of Rockford nicknamed it the “Forest City” because of its abundant woodland. Today, many call it the “City of Gardens” because it boasts a remarkable 7,000 acres of parks, tree-lined streets and a uniquely green downtown district that includes everything from magnificent public gardens to its iconic scenic river trail.

Read more about living in Rockford, IL.

Springfield

A views of the Illinois State Capitol Building in Springfield, IL, framed by colorful flower beds. Springfield is a great city to live in Illinois.
iStock/Sanya Kushak
Views of the Illinois State Capitol building in Springfield, IL.

Why Springfield is a great city to live in Illinois.

Springfield is a great place to call home — not just because it’s the state capital. This beautiful city is steeped in history and is most famously known as the home of President Abraham Lincoln. Residents and visitors alike enjoy exploring the renowned Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, which takes guests on an immersive journey through the life and times of the 16th U.S. President. History buffs also appreciate the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, which offers a glimpse into his family life and serves as a great place to spend a beautiful afternoon outdoors. 

Presidential history aside, Springfield boasts an abundance of natural beauty. Parks, trails and green spaces cover a whopping 2,500 acres of space within the city, and Washington Park stands out among the crowd as a favorite local gem with its stunning gardens, beloved playground and charming boathouse. Families, in particular, enjoy picnicking, walking and paddle boarding on the park’s lagoon in the warmer months. Lake Springfield is another great spot just south of the city for boating, fishing and water sports. The city also hosts a range of annual events and festivals, including the Illinois State Fair, and is one of the many stops along the historic Route 66. Living here is also easy on the wallet as Springfield is one of the best places to insulate from the rising inflation costs

Is health care good in Springfield?

Springfield boasts a robust health care system with significant providers within the local health care network, like Memorial Medical Center, HSHS St. John’s Hospital, Springfield Clinic, and SUI Medicine. There are also many mental health services, including places like the Springfield Center for Family Counseling and other providers locally and within a short distance of the city. 

Read more about living in Springfield, IL.

Considering a move to Illinois?

Picking a great place to live in Illinois might be easier than it sounds. We have more resources for moving to Illinois as well as other best places to live in the Midwest. No matter where you want to go, we can help you decide where to move and discover the best places to live in the U.S.

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