A common misconception about Illinois is that it is one of the worst-run states in the US. But look beyond the news and you’ll see the beauty in the Land of Lincoln.
As an Illinois native, I can offer you direct insights into what it’s really like to live in Illinois. I will help you gauge the pros and cons of moving here. And also guide you to the reality of residing in this culturally diverse and complex Midwest state.
This comprehensive guide will help you make the right call.
Is Illinois a good place to live in?
Illinois gained infamy in news outlets for its high crime rates and congestion issues. But you shouldn’t underestimate the living standards of this beautiful state. Its communities are booming with economic growth and rich cultures.
Illinois is the 6th most populated state and 25th largest state in the midwest. It has many beautiful towns such as the capital Springfield, Galena, and Edwardsville. The majority of the population lives in Chicagoland, the northeast part of Illinois right on Lake Michigan.
Over 12.6 million people live in this beautiful state, making it one of the most popular states in America. Almost 3 million people live in the Chicago Metropolitan area. So many of the points I will be making here will apply to Chicagoland.
What does Illinois offer?
It is a wonderful land, offering both natural and manmade beauty.
Moving to Illinois can be one of the best decisions you can make. But before you pack up your bags and drive away, there are some things you need to consider.
First, you can experience different seasons, often simultaneously in one day. Second, Illinois is an economic hub that holds prosperity in numerous industries. Consequently, Illinois has a high standard of living - with an average home here costing thousands of dollar less than the national average. Best of all, the Illinois charm offers countless opportunities for recreation and slaking your tastebuds.
Now for the cons, they are really something to think about before moving here. First, our state requires high state income and property taxes. Second, Illinois also has a high crime rate so best evaluate the community first before moving in. Third, Chicago suffers from over-congestion and slow-moving traffic. Lastly, the Land of Lincoln is vulnerable to natural disasters. This results in a higher cost of homeowner’s insurance here than the national average.
Pros
Diverse Seasons
Illinois is a place like no other. Here you can experience 3 seasons in one day.
You can enjoy humid and hot summers and frigid winters. Summer temperatures can range in the 80s.
Aside from the unpredictable climate, an Illinois winter is extremely harsh. Everything gets frozen, and temperatures can drop to two degrees. And if you are living close to Lake Michigan in Chicagoland, the wind chills can go to as low as negative double digits.
If you decide to live here, you can have a fashionable wardrobe. You will master dressing in layers.
Powerful Economy
Illinois boasts some of the best and most beautiful towns in the United States.
And these towns, especially the Chicagoland area, serve as an economic hub for numerous industries.
It ranks relatively high on economic potential. 41st in the economic outlook, 15th in the business environment, and 5th largest in GDP contribution in America.
Some of the top industries that make up this huge economy are healthcare, manufacturing, retail, and education.
Aside from McDonald's which started in this state, many big companies are based here. These are Fortune 500 companies, mostly in Chicago and Aurora, including Walgreens.
While there is a quite high unemployment rate, especially during the pandemic, Illinois continues to prove its economic resilience with its great infrastructure and friendly business environment.
High Standard of Living
The “Midwest Nice” offers a high standard of living. Illinois life is relatively affordable.
Housing tends to be the most expensive out of all household expenses.
Home prices, on average, are lower here than elsewhere in the US. The median home price statewide is $187,200, $17,700 less than the national median home price. Renting is also reasonable at about $984 rent per month.
The urban areas are more expensive to live in than the outskirts and rural areas. The Chicago-Naperville-Elgin area is the most expensive and is higher than the national average by 3.2%.
Recreational activities.
The Illinois charm offers countless opportunities for recreation.
It’s a history lover’s paradise, with museums and historical establishments galore!
Illinois is significant in the history of America itself. Here slavery was first abolished. Chicago serves as a symbol of rich diversity for centuries.
If you live here, you will enjoy many architectural wonders, including the creations of luminaries like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
There are several popular places such as the Oriental Institute Museum, Ronald Reagan Birthplace and Museum, Mendota Museum and Historical Society, Swedish American Museum, Illinois Military Museum, Jacoby Arts Center, Charleston History District, and my personal favorite, the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago.
In Springfield, you don’t want to miss the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and President Grant’s house in Galena.
Game for a marine adventure? Lake Michigan hosts some of the best-preserved shipwrecks.
Chicago is also a melting pot of celebrations and sports.
From May to October, Chicago is abuzz with festivities. Here you can enjoy the famous Illinois hospitality that birthed countless festivals from its rich multicultural heritage.
The Land of Lincoln is also the land of sportsmen. Be amazed by all the sporting events and rivalries. We have Da Bears, Bulls, Cubs and White Sox, Chicago Fire, and Blackhawks.
Food Capital of the US
If you’re in Illinois, you’ll also enjoy good food. Each town offers unique flavors and fragrant cuisines.
Among its specialties are deep-dish pizza, Frontera grill, poutine, Italian beef sandwiches, and Pierogies.
What makes this a foodie paradise is Illinois’ access to the freshest, best-tasting vegetables and fruits in America.
Cons
As an agent, it might be very counterintuitive for me to talk about the cons of my home state. But there is no utopia. So you might consider these things first before moving to the Land of Prairie:
High Taxes
While not the worst, Illinois state income taxes are at 4.95% on top of federal taxes.
We also have the second-highest property taxes in the country - with an average effective tax rate is 2.16%, twice the national average.
All of those taxes vary strongly depending on the county or even the city where you live.
The sales tax in Illinois is 6.25% but in some counties and cities can go as high as 11%.
High crime rate
News usually tells stories of violence in Chicago. In fact, Illinois has a violent crime rate of 4.1, .4 points higher than the nationwide average. Property crime is under 18.5 compared to 21.1 which is the national average. These are rates per 1,000 people.
Unfortunately, many of these crimes are condensed and based in certain neighborhoods. While there are safer areas, there are also areas where the crime rate is significantly higher. So it’s best to evaluate which community you want to be in.
Congestion and Traffic
Living in Chicago can be a nightmare due to congestion and traffic jams.
Chicago is the 3rd most congested city in the US.
Parking in the city can be impossible.
It comes with the travel of people from the suburbs to the city to work. So during the rush hour, it can get very slow and people can be stuck for hours.
But other ways of transportation can make it less challenging to get to and from work such as the Metra train.
Harsh Weather and Natural Disasters
Illinois residents are vulnerable to the ravages of nature. We encounter many natural disasters such as blizzards, tornadoes, severe flooding, and extreme heat. So home insurance is more expensive here, about $1,405, 30% higher than the national average.
Head scratching Laws
This part is quite entertaining but also very important to note when moving to Illinois.
That would be some of the most random laws that some of our towns need to obey.
These laws make you wonder: ”Why in the world would someone think to take the time and make these laws?”
- In the town of Bloomington, if you order a bottle of water, it is illegal for you to walk out with it.
- In Normal, you need to have a soap-making license to make soap.
- It is illegal to feed birds within a mile of downtown Bloomington, and in Kenilworth, roosters cannot crow within 300 feet of a residence.
- Galesburg has a law against smelly dogs.
- In Evanston, it is illegal to change clothes in the car unless there is a fire.
Conclusion
Illinois is a land of wonders, both natural and manmade. It’s one of the most popular places to live in America. While it has gained infamy for its crime rate, taxes, and traffic, the Land of Lincoln booms with diverse, multicultural communities.
All things said, Illinois is a prime place for real estate. It offers an exceptional, unique living experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a sports fan, or a foodie, you can find a haven here in the Prairie Land.
Are you keen to move to Illinois? Check out our curated home listings now! Find your future here with us!
