The Best Places to Live in Illinois in 2025

Consider adding these cities to your list if you’re thinking about moving to Illinois.

Illinois, deeply rooted in agriculture and towering skyscrapers, is often referred to as America’s heartland. The state boasts a rich history in agriculture and industry, with a significant contribution to the nation’s agricultural sector. Illinois ranks as the fifth-largest agricultural state, with corn, soybeans, and swine being its top commodities.

Chicago, situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, stands tall with nearly two centuries of art, culture, and history. The city’s suburbs sprawl over 50+ miles from Lake Michigan into the “collar counties” bordering Wisconsin and Indiana, extending deep into the iconic prairies, rivers, and bluffs of the Midwest. With nearly ten million residents, Chicago is one of the world’s largest metropolitan areas.

Outside of Chicago, Illinois showcases its rural charm. Vast farmlands, small towns, and scenic hills dominate the landscape. The affordability of land, serene communities, and natural beauty make this region an attractive place to live. Towards the south lie the Shawnee Hills and the famous “American Bottom” – a significant floodplain of the Mississippi River.

Every region in Illinois has its own unique character and array of cities. In this Redfin feature, we have identified the best places to live in Illinois based on factors such as affordability, accessibility, and amenities. More details about our methodology can be found here or at the end of the article.

1. Bloomington, IL

Bloomington, located in the heart of the Corn Belt in Central Illinois, offers a peaceful small-town atmosphere with the conveniences of a big city. Affordable living, robust public transportation, low unemployment rates, and easy commutes make Bloomington a top choice for residents.

The city is often associated with Normal to the north, collectively known as Blo-No. Bloomington’s thriving job market, dominated by major employers like State Farm and Country Financial, as well as sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and agriculture, contribute significantly to its growing economy.

A wide range of amenities awaits residents, including scenic trails like the Constitution Trail, popular attractions like Miller Park Zoo and the McLean County Museum of History, and vibrant cultural scenes at Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University.

Food enthusiasts will appreciate dining options such as Tony’s Diner and Tobin’s Pizza, along with the offerings at the Downtown Bloomington Farmers’ Market. Local events like the Festival of Trees and McClean County Fair provide ample opportunities to engage with the community and experience the region’s diverse weather patterns. For a change of scenery, a short train ride can take you to Chicago for a weekend getaway.

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2. Chicago, IL

Chicago, a city synonymous with Illinois, stands as one of the nation’s largest and most iconic cities. Known for its towering skyscrapers, waterfront views, rich history, and globally recognized culture, Chicago is a major attraction. Despite its size, Chicago manages to offer affordability compared to many other U.S. cities, with varying prices across different neighborhoods.

The city is renowned for its world-class public transportation, expansive parks, excellent educational institutions, vibrant sports scenes, and diverse culinary landscape. Chicago’s climate, though unpredictable, appeals to many with its distinct seasons and a range of outdoor activities.

While Chicago faces challenges like a complex racial history and significant wealth gap, the city continues to draw residents with its job market, renowned food scene, and a calendar full of festivals and events. A growing number of businesses relocating to the area provide additional opportunities for newcomers.

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3. Champaign, IL

Located approximately two hours south of Chicago, Champaign is a charming city known for its universities and expansive farmlands. The city offers affordable living, a diverse range of dining options, and excellent accessibility, making it a top choice for residents.

Champaign’s identity as a classic college town is enhanced by the presence of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, which contributes to the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Nearby Urbana complements Champaign’s charm, with its smaller size and proximity to the countryside.

One of the key attractions of Champaign is its robust public transportation system, supported by both the university and the city. Amtrak services provide convenient access to Chicago and St. Louis, while minimal traffic ensures smooth commuting. Residents can enjoy the public library or the Farmers’ Market on pleasant weather days.

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4. Evanston, IL

Evanston, a charming suburb north of Chicago along Lake Michigan, is recognized as the fourth-best place to live in Illinois. Home to Northwestern University, the city buzzes with intellectual energy, cultural events, and top-tier collegiate sports. Its historic downtown area, dotted with small businesses, parks, and trails, offers a delightful outdoor experience.

Despite higher monthly costs, living in Evanston is deemed worthwhile by many residents. The city boasts easy accessibility, high-quality education, and a plethora of dining and shopping options. Summers bring vibrant farmers markets and neighborhood festivals, while winter months offer cozy coffee shops and seasonal events.

With convenient transportation options like the CTA Purple Line and Metra’s Union Pacific North line, commuting to downtown Chicago is stress-free. Notably, neighboring suburbs like Naperville and Aurora missed the list due to limited transportation and amenities, affecting their rankings.

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5. Normal, IL

Sharing a border with Bloomington, Normal carves out its identity as a college town with abundant job opportunities. Home to Illinois State University and Heartland Community College, Normal exudes a college town vibe with events like the Corn Festival and Illinois Shakespeare Festival.

While more suburban than Bloomington, Normal boasts a robust economy, especially with Rivian’s primary manufacturing plant in town. The town’s suburban feel, combined with big-city amenities and affordable housing options, make it a sought-after place to live in Illinois.

Surrounded by farmlands and featuring parks like Fairview Park and Maxwell Park, Normal offers a blend of outdoor and recreational activities. With significant employers like Tate & Lyle, Caterpillar, and ADM, the city provides a diverse job market for its residents.

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6. Springfield, IL

Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is a historic city and one of the top places to live in the state. With a low cost of living, a blend of industrial heritage, and ample job opportunities, Springfield offers a peaceful and favorable