Americans love Illinois! And why wouldn’t you? From unmatchable natural beauty to having the 5th largest GDP in the U.S., the Prairie State has it all.
Illinois offers its residents an excellent quality of life, as it stands as the 4th best place to live in America. The state scores 80/100 in quality of life. For a rich cultural experience, Chicago and Peoria are some of the best places to live.
People are attracted to move here because of the expanding economy, accessible housing, and high-quality education. Let’s explore the best places to live in Illinois.
Best Places to Live in Illinois in 2024
Here’s our ranking of the top areas in Illinois to live in. We’ve considered the community well-being score, median home price, monthly expenses, and the population of the cities.
| # | City | Population | Median Home Price | Monthly Expenses | Unemployment Rate | Community Well-Being Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | Chicago | 2,664,452 | $365,000 | $7,544 | 6.2% | 68/100 |
| 2. | Springfield | 112,544 | $165,000 | $7,029 | 5.3% | 64/100 |
| 3. | Naperville | 150,245 | $622,750 | $8,231 | 6.4% | 68/100 |
| 4. | Clarendon Hills | 8,562 | $662,500 | $8,231 | 5.4% | 74/100 |
| 5. | Rockford | 146,120 | $154,000 | $6,747 | 6.7% | 54/100 |
| 6. | Schaumburg | 75,750 | $340,000 | $7,324 | 5.0% | 71/100 |
| 7. | Peoria | 110,460 | $167,625 | $7,155 | 6.1% | 56/100 |
| 8 | Evanston | 75,070 | $460,000 | $7,324 | 5.9% | 71/100 |
| 9 | Hinsdale | 17,297 | $1,351,250 | $8,231 | 5.4% | 74/100 |
| 10 | Oak Park | 52,055 | $485,000 | $7,324 | 5.3% | 71/100 |
10 Best Places to Live in Illinois
Here’s our list of the top 10 cities that offer comfortable living options in the Prairie State:
#1 Chicago
- Median Home Price: $365,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Chicago: $71,673[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 68/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Chicago, IL: 60611 | 60647 | 60622
Chicago, or Second City, is Illinois’ largest city with a population of over 2.6 million. It’s one of the top cities to live in Illinois due to its architecture, food, and lively nightlife. It is also home to the Booth School of Business, University of Chicago.
Although it’s the most famous city in Illinois, the home prices are fairly affordable. However, the cost of living is steeper, at 14% more than the national average.
» Chicago Homes for Sale: Find your home in the Second City now.
#2 Springfield
- Median Home Price: $165,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Springfield: $62,419[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 64/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Springfield, IL: 62702 | 62703 | 62704
Springfield experiences all types of weather, from heavy rainfall to chilly winters. The cost of living in Springfield is 10% lower than the national average in comparison to other places in Illinois.
Springfield is also highly active in the arts and culture scene. The ‘Route 66 Film Festival’ is well-known for being an annual event held to showcase all the films based on or involving the historic Route 66.
» Springfield Homes for Sale: Discover property options in this All-climate city.
#3 Naperville
- Median Home Price: $622,750[2]
- Median Household Income in Naperville: $143,754[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 68/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Naperville, IL: 60564 | 60540 | 60563
Naperville is the city for you to enjoy an upscale lifestyle. The city houses various tech giants, such as AT&T, that create abundant employment opportunities. The city also offers around 130 parks and sports complexes for recreation.
A major downside is that you may have to spend a considerable sum to own or rent a house in Naperville. The cost of living is 35% above the national average.
» Naperville Homes for Sale: View luxury properties in the city.
#4 Clarendon Hills
- Median Home Price: $662,500[2]
- Median Household Income in Clarendon Hills: $115,923[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 74/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Clarendon Hills, IL: 60514
Clarendon Hills is famous for its excellent school ecosystem. The town is among the safest places in Illinois. It has a violent crime rate of 8.6%, significantly below the national average of 22.7%.
The median home price in Clarendon Hills is steeper, with a cost of living 36% higher than the national average. The job market is projected to grow at 21.2% over the coming years.
» Clarendon Hills Homes for Sale: View affordable homes in Clarendon Hills.
#5 Rockford
- Median Home Price: $154,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Rockford: $50,744[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 54/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Rockford, IL: 61107 | 61103 | 61108
Being one of the major cities in Illinois, Rockford offers a booming job market for freshmen and experienced professionals alike. Manufacturing and aerospace are major contributors to the city’s economy.
Home prices in Rockford are affordable, at 15% below the national average. The cost of living is also 13% lower. Rockford is one of the nicest places to live in Illinois if you’re on a budget.
» Rockford Hills Homes for Sale: View affordable homes in Clarendon Hills.
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#6 Schaumburg
- Median Home Price: $340,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Schaumburg: $92,818[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 71/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Schaumburg, IL: 60173 | 60193 | 60194
Schaumburg is a northwestern suburb of Chicago. Nearby, the Legoland Discovery Center features kids’ rides and a 4D cinema. The Ned Brown Preserve is a popular spot, with paved trails and a chain of connected pools, collectively known as Busse Lake.
The home prices in Schaumburg are decent, at $340,000. However, the cost of living is 10.8% higher than the national average. Schaumburg is easily one of the best places to live in Illinois.
» Schaumburg Homes for Sale: Make yourself a part of this college town.
#7 Peoria
- Median Home Price: $167,625[2]
- Median Household Income in Peoria: $58,068[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 56/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Peoria, IL: 61603 | 61604 | 61602
The vibe of Peoria is a blend of an archaic and a modern city. On average, Peoria experiences 194 sunny days throughout the year.
Peoria’s cost of living is 8% more affordable than nationwide. Its job market is expected to grow by 30.5%, led by healthcare and manufacturing. It has scenic views of the Peoria Lake and the Illinois River. These factors make it ideal for first-time homebuyers.
» Peoria Homes for Sale: View properties in this vintage yet modern town.
#8 Evanston
- Median Home Price: $460,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Evanston: $93,188[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 71/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Evanston, IL: 60201 | 60202 | 60203
Evanston is located just north of Chicago. The city is famous for its beautiful lakefront, diverse dining options, and historic architecture. Home to Northwestern University, it offers an intellectual atmosphere, drawing scholars, professionals, and families alike.
The utility costs are 9% lower than the national average. $74,000 is the average base salary annually. The NorthShore University Health System and Northwestern University are among the major employers.
» Evanston Homes for Sale: Explore properties in this culturally rich town.
#9 Hinsdale
- Median Home Price: $1,351,250[2]
- Median Household Income in Hinsdale: $250,000+[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 74/100[6]
- Popular Zip Code in Hinsdale, IL: 60521
Hinsdale is an affluent suburb located west of Chicago. It has excellent schools, lush parks, and luxurious homes. The Katherine Legge Memorial Park is a major attraction for families. Being close to downtown Chicago, residents can enjoy a quaint suburban lifestyle while accessing the city’s amenities.
The cost of living is 73% higher than the national average, reflecting the town’s affluent nature. However, its low crime rate, excellent public services, and strong community spirit continue to draw in residents.
» Hinsdale Homes for Sale: Find your luxurious home in this affluent suburb.
#10 Oak Park
- Median Home Price: $485,000[2]
- Median Household Income in Oak Park: $103,264[3]
- Community Well-Being Score: 71/100[6]
- 3 Popular Zip Codes in Oak Park, IL: 60302 | 60304 | 60301
Oak Park has a rich architectural history and diverse culture. Known as the home of Frank Lloyd Wright, many of his early works are scattered throughout the community. Oak Park’s streets are lined with historic homes. Many are preserved as part of the village’s heritage.
The cost of living is 24% higher than the national average. Despite high housing costs, residents value Oak Park’s history, culture, and convenient access to downtown Chicago.
» Oak Park Homes for Sale: Find your home vibrant village near Chicago.
Best Places to Live in Illinois Based on Demographics
We have researched the best places for single families, young professionals, and retirees. The cities are ranked on parameters like education, employment opportunities, and healthcare facilities.
| Demographic | #1 | #2 | #3 |
| Single Families | Naperville | Plainfield | Park Ridge |
| Young Professionals | Lisle | Lombard | Evanston |
| Retirees | Freeport | Glenview | Peoria |
Is Illinois the Right Place for Your Next Move?
Illinois is one of the best places to live in the US due to its strong economy and large job market. Other factors that contribute are cultural significance and great food.
The Prairie State offers a low cost of living of 8% below the national average. Moreover, housing prices are 21% more affordable than the national average.
With the current low mortgage rate of 6.25%, there is an increase in the home-buying demand in Illinois. So, to make your offer stand out from the competition, you must get a mortgage pre-approval.
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Research Methodology Best Places to Live in Illinois
We have considered the different regions to rank the best places in Illinois. Comparison criteria for the best cities to live in Illinois and the information sources are as follows:
- Population: Illinois Demographics Report [1]
- Median Home Price: Redfin[2]
- Median Household Income: United States Census Bureau[3]
- Monthly Expenses: Economic Policy Institute[4]
- Community Well-Being Score: Community Well-Being Index by Sharecare[5]
Additionally, we have listed the good cities to live in Illinois for varying demographics. These include the best places to live for families, young adults, and retirees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the best place to live in Illinois?
Naperville and Clarendon Hills are among the top places to live in Illinois.
What is the richest part of Illinois?
The DuPage County, which includes Clarendon Hills and Naperville, is among the richest parts of Illinois.
What city in Illinois has the highest cost of living?
Chicago has the highest cost of living across all citites in Illinois, 19% above the national average.
What is the nicest but cheapest place to live in Illinois?
With a cost of living 18% below the national average, Belleville is the cheapest place to live in Illinois.
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