Are you seeking a new house for a fresh start? Look no further than the Land of Lincoln! From bustling cities to serene suburbs, Illinois has various places to call home, each offering a unique blend of lifestyle amenities.
As a leading authority in real estate, we at eXp Realty are here to provide you with a comprehensive guide to the best places to live in Illinois. We’ll explore these locations’ housing prices, jobs, schools, and other lifestyle elements to help you find your dream home.
Here Is a List of the Best Places to Live in Illinois
Join us on this virtual journey as we reveal our list of the best places to live in Illinois, ensuring you find the perfect home.
Springfield
In the heart of Central Illinois, you’ll find Springfield, the state’s capital city. It’s known for its affordable cost of living compared to the national average. This makes homeownership easier for many residents, thus, adding to its appeal.
Springfield’s deep history is closely intertwined with Abraham Lincoln, making it an attractive destination for history buffs. Moreover, the primary industries contributing to the city’s economy include healthcare, government, and education.
Population Size: Approx. 113,300
Average Income: $52,780
Average Housing Price: $129.8K
Best For: History enthusiasts, government employees
Known For: Springfield is known for its excellent schools, including the University of Illinois Springfield. It also has a lower crime rate compared to larger cities.
Things To Do: Visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, explore the lush Lincoln Memorial Garden, and indulge in recreational activities at the city’s many parks and golf courses. Springfield has many annual festivals and events, like the Illinois State Fair, celebrating the city’s rich culture and history.
Naperville
Located in DuPage and Will counties, Naperville is one of the most populated cities in Illinois. With its upscale housing market, you can choose from various options across great Naperville neighborhoods, from historic homes to modern apartments.
This vibrant city is characterized by its high-quality education, with some of the best public schools and college campuses, such as North Central College. This makes it appealing to families. The thriving job market and proximity to Chicago’s business districts are perfect for professionals.
Population Size: Approx. 150,000
Average Income: $125,926
Average Housing Price: $417.5K
Best For: Families, professionals
Known For: Naperville is renowned for its safe, friendly, and superb quality of life. It has numerous parks, sports facilities, and golf courses. The city also boasts a low crime rate. Its high median household income reflects its robust economy, thanks to the technology, education, and healthcare sectors.
Things To Do: Visit the charming downtown area with various restaurants and shops, explore the Riverwalk along the DuPage River, and immerse yourself in Naperville’s rich history at Naper Settlement. Naperville also has an active community sports scene for sports fans, with many local leagues and teams for adults and children.
Buffalo Grove
Buffalo Grove, a popular suburb located in Cook and Lake counties, is one of the safest cities in Illinois. Known for its top-rated public schools, Buffalo Grove offers residents a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty of outdoor activities.
The community boasts a high quality of life, with key industries including healthcare, manufacturing, and professional services. It has plenty of housing options, from affordable apartments to more upscale single-family homes.
Population Size: Approx. 42,600
Average Income: $115,611
Average Housing Price: $325.7K
Best For: Families, retirees
Known For: Buffalo Grove is a peaceful yet vibrant city with many urban amenities and lush parks. The city’s low crime rate, especially nonviolent crimes, and excellent schools make it a top choice for families.
Things To Do: Explore the Buffalo Grove Park District, visit the Raupp Museum, or enjoy a fun day at the Buffalo Grove Suburb’s largest amusement parks. Buffalo Grove also has a thriving local economy due to its many small businesses and boutiques.
Wheaton
Wheaton is a picturesque city situated in DuPage County, often praised for its small-town feel combined with modern amenities. Home to Wheaton College, it has one of the highest graduation rates in the state, offering quality education for students.
The city’s economy is mainly centered around education, healthcare, and professional services. A wide range of local businesses and retailers further boosts it.
Population Size: Approx. 53,000
Average Income: $93,071
Average Housing Price: $352.5K
Best For: College students, families
Known For: Wheaton boasts a vibrant cultural scene, a rich history, and a low crime rate. You’ll find various housing, from historic Victorian homes to contemporary condos.
Things To Do: Visit the Wheaton French Market, explore the Cosley Zoo, and stroll through the beautiful Cantigny Park. Wheaton hosts numerous annual events, including the popular Wheaton Brew Fest and the Wheaton Wine Walk, if you want to experience the local culture.
Glenview
Located in Cook County, Glenview is known for its scenic landscapes, active citizen participation, and strong sense of community. The city boasts diverse housing, ranging from quaint cottages to modern loft apartments.
Glenview particularly appeals to families and outdoor enthusiasts with its top-rated public schools, low crime rate, variety of parks, and extensive trail system.
Population Size: Approx. 47,300
Average Income: $105,959
Average Housing Price: $460K
Best For: Professionals, families
Known For: Glenview is popular for its excellent school district, low crime rate, and range of recreational activities. It also has a bustling downtown area, known as The Glen Town Center, filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Things To Do: Visit The Grove National Historic Landmark, enjoy a day at Kohl Children’s Museum, or explore the stunning Chicago Botanic Garden. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, enjoy a round of golf at the Glenview Park Golf Club. With its many respected healthcare facilities, Glenview is an ideal choice if you prioritize healthcare accessibility.
Park Ridge
Park Ridge, situated in Cook County, is a well-established and popular suburb of Illinois. Known for its friendly residents, the city prides itself on its strong job market, top-rated schools, and various recreational and cultural activities. It’s the perfect blend of small-town charm and big-city advantages.
Population Size: Approx. 38,300
Average Income: $102,842
Average Housing Price: $450.9K
Best For: Families, professionals
Known For: Park Ridge offers many parks and green spaces, including the unique Memorial Park. It has housing options, from cozy bungalows and ranch-style homes to modern apartments and condos. Its proximity to Downtown Chicago makes it attractive to young professionals.
Things To Do: Visit the Pickwick Theatre, explore the lovely neighborhood, or enjoy outdoor activities in Park Ridge Prospect Park. The city also hosts several community events throughout the year, such as the Taste of Park Ridge, a famous food festival.
Oak Park
Oak Park, located on the west side of Chicago, is rich in history, architectural heritage, and cultural attractions. Known as the hometown of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the city boasts beautiful homes he designed. Oak Park is also the birthplace of the famous author Ernest Hemingway.
Population Size: Approx. 52,600
Average Income: $97,960
Average Housing Price: $407K
Best For: Art enthusiasts, History buffs
Known For: Oak Park provides excellent public schools, an array of entertainment options, and a wide range of housing, from historic bungalows to modern condos.
Things To Do: Visit the Hemingway Birthplace and Museum, tour Frank Lloyd Wright buildings, or stop by the Oak Park Festival Theatre. Enjoy the vibrant art scene and visit the Oak Park Art League. You can also see Oak Park’s commitment to sustainability in its many parks and green initiatives.
Elmhurst
In DuPage County, Elmhurst offers a suburban feel with the convenience of a city. This bustling city has a low crime rate and is known for its lovely neighborhoods, friendly people, and great schools. You’ll find everything here, from historic homes to contemporary condos.
Population Size: Approx. 45,300
Average Income: $104,854
Average Housing Price: $425K
Best For: Families, young professionals
Known For: Elmhurst is highly regarded for its excellent public schools, robust job market, and charming downtown area. Its proximity to Chicago makes it a great place to live for young professionals.
Things To Do: Explore Elmhurst Art Museum, visit the Lizzadro Museum of Lapidary Art, or enjoy a day at the Wilder Park Conservatory. Elmhurst’s vibrant arts scene extends to its public spaces, which often feature sculptures and other works from local artists. You can also attend various community events throughout the year, like the St. Patrick’s Day Parade.
Schaumburg
Schaumburg, located in northeastern Illinois, is a bustling city. This community offers residents a mix of history, modern amenities, and excellent job opportunities, particularly in the retail and IT sectors. It provides housing from single-family homes to modern apartments.
Population Size: Approx. 76,300
Average Income: $78,865
Average Housing Price: $231.6K
Best For: Young Professionals, families, shoppers, and food lovers
Known For: Schaumburg houses Woodfield Mall, which is not just one of the largest shopping malls in Illinois, but the whole of the United States. The city also has a thriving restaurant scene, with various dining options.
Things To Do: Visit the Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament, explore the Schaumburg Boomers Stadium, or shop at the Woodfield Mall. The Schaumburg Library is open to anyone who wants to enhance their knowledge. It also houses the Trickster Art Gallery, which has dedicated its art and work to Native Americans.
Downers Grove
Downers Grove, located in DuPage County, offers residents a blend of city and suburban living. Known for its strong job market, excellent schools, and historic houses, this is a town where everyone feels at home.
Population Size: Approx. 49,400
Average Income: $88,208
Average Housing Price: $378.5K
Best For: Families, professionals
Known For: Downers Grove has been recognized as one of the friendliest towns in Illinois. It has a strong economy that features sectors like healthcare, education, and professional services. The town offers a diverse housing market, from historic Victorian-era homes to townhouses.
Things To Do: Catch a show at the Tivoli Theatre, explore the Morton Arboretum, or participate in community events at the Downers Grove Park District. For music lovers, the annual Downers Grove Concert Series features local artists and provides residents with regular opportunities to enjoy live music.
FAQs: Best Places to Live in Illinois
Let’s delve into some frequently asked questions about living in Illinois to guide your decision-making process further.
What is the best part of Illinois to live in?
The best part of Illinois largely depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you are drawn to bustling city life with rich cultural scenes and historical sites, the Chicago neighborhoods and suburbs like Naperville and Oak Park could be the best for you.
Consider communities like Clarendon Hills and Northbrook if you prefer a quieter, family-friendly atmosphere with great schools.
Is it a good idea to move to Illinois?
Moving to Illinois can be a good idea, especially if you value urban amenities and natural beauty. The state offers various cities and towns that cater to diverse lifestyles.
Illinois boasts top-notch educational institutions, and a strong job market, particularly in sectors like healthcare, education, and government. It also has an abundant history that includes being home to Abraham Lincoln.
Where are most Illinois residents moving to?
While some residents may decide to move within the state to enjoy the different lifestyle opportunities available, others relocate out of state for various reasons, such as employment opportunities or lower cost of living.
Popular destinations for those moving out of Illinois include nearby states like Indiana, Wisconsin, and Missouri. Nonetheless, Illinois continues to attract new residents due to its diverse cultural attractions, excellent schools, and strong job market.
What’s the cheapest place to live in Illinois?
Finding an affordable place to live is an important factor for many people. In Illinois, cities like Decatur and Springfield are often considered the most affordable. Decatur, located in central Illinois, has a cost of living well below the national average. Springfield, the state’s capital city, also offers a low cost of living, with affordable housing costs being a key highlight.
How much money do you need to live comfortably in Illinois?
The amount of money you need to live comfortably in Illinois depends on several factors, such as location, family size, and lifestyle. On average, a yearly salary of $60,000 to $70,000 might suffice for a comfortable life in many parts of Illinois.
However, this amount could vary significantly. For instance, living comfortably in Chicago, the state’s largest city, could require a higher income due to the elevated cost of living compared to smaller towns or rural areas.
What are the pros and cons of living in Illinois?
Like any state, living in Illinois has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Pros:
- Variety: Illinois offers diverse lifestyle options, from vibrant cities like Chicago to peaceful, small-town communities like Clarendon Hills.
- Education: Illinois is home to some of the nation’s top public and private schools and renowned universities like Northwestern University and Loyola University.
- Cultural Attractions: There’s a rich mix of history and culture to explore, from the historical significance of Abraham Lincoln’s home to vibrant art exhibitions, music festivals, and sports events.
- Natural Beauty: Illinois offers beautiful scenery, from the beaches of Lake Michigan to lush parks and recreational activities in suburban and rural areas.
Cons:
- Cost of Living: Some areas, especially Chicago and its nearby suburbs, can have a higher living cost than the national average.
- Weather: Illinois experiences all four seasons, including cold, snowy winters that may not be to everyone’s liking. It’s also called the Windy City for a reason.
- Taxes: Illinois has one of the highest property tax rates in the United States, which can disadvantage homeowners.
- Crime Rate: While many areas in Illinois are safe, crime rates can be an issue in certain parts of larger cities like Chicago.
However, it’s important to note that everyone’s experience can vary depending on their circumstances and preferences. It’s best to visit and explore different areas in Illinois to get a feel for living there.
Parting Thoughts on Best Place in Illinois
Choosing the best place to live in Illinois depends on your preferences, lifestyle needs, and financial circumstances. This state offers various options, from bustling cities with a vibrant arts scene and excellent schools to small towns with a friendly atmosphere, deep histories, and affordable living.
For those who appreciate the charm of smaller towns, Wheaton, Glenview, and Park Ridge offer a small-town feel with a strong sense of community, beautiful scenery, and friendly residents.
Those who prefer a more urban setting might consider Oak Park, Elmhurst, or Schaumburg. These areas offer a mix of history and modern downtown appeal, with plenty of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer for the best place to live in Illinois. It ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in a community. We recommend checking out different property listings on our website to aid in your search. If you’re still unsure of your next step, contact your local eXp agent to help you find your dream home.
