Explore the diverse landscapes and cultural richness of Illinois, affectionately known as the “Land of Lincoln.” From the cityscape of Chicago to the tranquil expanses of rural farmland, the state has something that caters to various lifestyles. However, living in Illinois presents its own challenges, including the high taxes and traffic congestion in urban areas. In this ApartmentGuide article, we’ll examine the pros and cons of living in Illinois, providing you with valuable insights into life in the “Land of Lincoln.”
Renting in Illinois snapshot
| Population | 12,549,689 |
| Avg. studio rent | $1,309 per month |
| Avg. one-bedroom rent | $1,544 per month |
| Avg. two-bedroom rent | $1,928 per month |
| Most affordable cities to rent in Illinois | Mattoon, Herrin, Charleston |
| Most walkable cities in Illinois | Oak Park, Chicago, Evanston |
1. Pro: Diverse job opportunities
Illinois has a diverse economy that provides residents with a wide range of job opportunities across various industries. Cities like Chicago serve as major hubs for finance, technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, offering employment prospects for professionals with diverse skill sets. Additionally, Illinois is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, Caterpillar, and Archer Daniels Midland, which contribute to the state’s robust job market.
2. Con: Severe winters
The harsh winters in Illinois bring bone-chilling temperatures and heavy snowfall, posing challenges for residents in commuting and daily activities. The bitter cold often leads to increased heating costs and potential hazards such as icy roads and frostbite. For those unaccustomed to such extreme weather, the long winter months can be a significant drawback to living in Illinois.
3. Pro: Access to great education
Illinois is renowned for its prestigious educational institutions, giving residents access to world-class education at all levels. Universities like the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, provide an exceptional academic program and research opportunities.
4. Con: High taxes
Illinois is known for its relatively high taxes, including property taxes and income taxes, which can place a significant financial burden on residents. For instance, Illinois is ranked number 9 in the nation for highest taxes. These taxes often contribute to the state’s overall cost of living, making it a less attractive place to live.
5. Pro: Strong sports culture
Chicago, in particular, is home to iconic sports franchises such as the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Bears, fostering a sense of community and pride among residents. Outside of Chicago, Illinois offers a diverse range of sports and recreational activities. Cities like Peoria are known for their rich baseball history, with the Peoria Chiefs providing entertainment for fans.
6. Con: Traffic congestion
Traffic congestion is a prevalent issue in Illinois, particularly in urban areas like Chicago, where gridlock during rush hours is a common frustration for commuters. The heavy traffic not only leads to longer commute times but also contributes to increased air pollution and fuel consumption, impacting both the environment and residents’ quality of life.
7. Pro: Diverse culinary scene
Illinois’ diverse population contributes to a vibrant culinary scene, offering residents a wide array of dining options to suit every palate and preference. From trendy bistros to cozy cafes, Evanston offers an array of dining options ranging from global fusion cuisine to locally sourced farm-to-table fare. Larger cities like Chicago are renowned for their diverse and innovative food scene, with Michelin-starred restaurants, ethnic eateries, and local favorites lining the streets. From deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, Illinois has various options sure to cater to your cravings.
8. Con: Poor air quality in some metros
Chicago often experience poor air quality due to factors such as vehicle emissions and industrial activities, which can exacerbate respiratory issues and decrease overall well-being. Additionally, agricultural runoff from the state’s extensive farmlands can contribute to water pollution, impacting both ecosystems and public health.
9. Pro: Vibrant arts and music scene
Illinois boasts a vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and performance venues showcasing local and international talent. Chicago’s theater district, home to iconic institutions like the Goodman Theatre and Steppenwolf Theatre Company, offers residents a rich cultural experience with world-class productions and performances. Additionally, cities like Champaign-Urbana contribute to the state’s scene with Krannert Center for the Performing Arts and the University of Illinois’ renowned School of Music.
10. Con: Natural disaster risk
Illinois faces natural disaster risks, including tornadoes that can wreak havoc across the state, such as the devastating tornado outbreak in 2013 that caused significant damage in communities like Washington and Coal City. The state’s proximity to the New Madrid Fault Zone also poses a seismic risk, with the potential for earthquakes to occur, although less frequent than tornadoes.
11. Pro: Affordable housing options
Illinois provides a range of affordable housing options, especially in suburban and rural areas surrounding major urban centers such as Chicago. Cities like Rockford and Springfield exemplify this affordability, offering residents access to reasonably priced homes and apartments. For instance, in Rockford, the median home sale price stands at $152,000, while the average rent for a one-bedroom apartment is $837, making it an attractive option for those seeking affordable housing in the state.
12. Con: Crowded tourist seasons
Illinois experiences crowded tourist seasons, particularly in popular destinations like Chicago, where attractions such as Navy Pier and Millennium Park draw large crowds throughout the year. The influx of tourists can lead to congested streets, longer wait times at restaurants and attractions, and increased competition for housing and parking spaces, impacting the daily lives of residents.
Methodology : The population data is from the United States Census Bureau, walkable cities are from Walk Score, and rental data is from ApartmentGuide.