Moving To Illinois

A complete guide of the state from healthcare to diversity

Should you move to Illinois?

Illinois, the Land of Lincoln, boasts a diverse economy, rich cultural experiences, and plenty of outdoor adventure. From the bustling metropolis of Chicago to the rolling plains of the south, Illinois offers a range of lifestyles to suit varied tastes.

Illinois’s economy is a powerhouse, with Chicago serving as a key hub for finance, technology, manufacturing, and healthcare. The state is home to a multitude of Fortune 500 companies, including Boeing, Abbott Laboratories, and Caterpillar.

Life in Illinois presents a blend of urban excitement and rural charm. The city of Chicago offers world-class dining, shopping, entertainment, and cultural institutions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Outside the city, residents can enjoy activities like hiking in Starved Rock State Park or exploring the wine trail in Southern Illinois.

Illinois also prioritizes education, with top-rated universities like the University of Chicago, Northwestern University, and the University of Illinois system.

If you’re seeking a state that offers a balance of urban and rural life, a strong economy, and a commitment to quality education, Illinois might be the perfect choice. Just remember to bundle up for those windy city winters!

State Capital

Springfield

Area Code(s)

217, 224, 309, 312, 331, 447, 464, 618, 630, 708, 730, 773, 779, 815, 847, 872

Time Zone

Central Time Zone

Land Area (sq mi)

55,513

State Bird

Cardinal

Motto

State sovereignty, national union

State Flag

Firstandsold.com is an audience-supported site. We may earn an affiliate commission when you purchase through links or ads. Learn more

How Does Illinois Rank?

B
Diversity
B
Cost of Living
B
Home Affordability

Who Lives in Illinois?

Discover more about the people who make up the State

Total Population

National Avg 6,652,315

Population Density

231 per sq mi

National Avg 206.5 persons/square mile

How does Illinois compare?

B
Diversity Grade
White alone
59.5%
Black or African American
14.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
6.3%
Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Hispanic or Latino
18.3%

Foreign Born Persons

14.1%

Veterans

537552

Under 5 years
5.4%
Under 18 years
21.6%
Over 65 years
17.2%

Illinois Climate

How’s the weather?

How Does Illinois Compare?

#23
in Sunny Days
#30
in Annual Rainfall
#12
in Daytime Humidity

Start Organizing Your Move Today

Stay on top of tasks and avoid moving-day chaos. Download your moving checklist and box inventory list.

Healthcare in Illinois

How are the hospitals and care?

Major Hospitals

177

Residents Per Bed

348

Residents Per Physician

269.7

How Does Illinois Compare?

#23
in Healthcare
#34
in Available Beds
#10
in Doctors Per Resident

Illinois Metropolitans

Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin

Chicago-Naperville-Elgin

Illinois

Peoria

Illinois

Rockford

Illinois

Champaign-Urbana

Illinois

Springfield

Illinois

Bloomington

Illinois

Carbondale-Marion

Illinois

Kankakee

Illinois Cost of Living

How Does Illinois Compare?

17
in Cost of Living
15
in Minimum Wage
39
in Living Wage

Don't Forget!

Auto insurance costs change from city to neighborhood. Through Insurify, you can receive personalized quotes from top insurers in 5 minutes or less.

Renting? Renter’s insurance protects you, your guests, and your things. And Lemonade offers renters insurance plans for as low as $5 per month.

Illinois State Taxes

Housing in Illinois

Buying or renting? Here’s more about real estate in the zip code.

Total Households

4,930,255

Own vs. Rent

Own 66.5%
Rent 33.5%

Connect with a local Illinois REALTOR®

Buying or selling? We’ll help you connect with the right real estate agents in Illinois or anywhere you need help.

Median Home Value

234,000

National $440,300

Median Rent

$1,097

National $1,702

Average Homeownership cost

$681

Taxes, Insurance, Utilities, HOA (no mortgage)

Persons Per Household

2.54

Moving advice

Increase your odds of a quick sale, earning more money, or saving your rental deposit by hiring a professional cleaner. A study by HomeLight found home sellers who invest in cleaners earned $3,700 more

Illinois Schools

Explore the school district and schools

8th Grade Proficiency (2022)

Ranked #20 in Mathematics

Basic Proficiency

62%

Proficient or Above

27%

Ranked #9 in Reading

Basic Proficiency

71%

Proficient or Above

32%

Education Attainment

High School Degree
89.9%
Bachelors Degree
36.2%

Need some help with your move?

Moving labor can be hired by the hour, helping you budget for the heavy stuff or your entire move.

Illinois Cities & Towns

Illinois Economy

The industries, jobs, and economics of the zip code

Median Household Income

$72,563

US Average $74,580

How does Illinois compare?

In Labor Force

65.1%

Poverty rate

12.1%

Private Employers

320,795

Total Employees

5,270,871

Illinois Counties

The Best, Worst, Wealthiest, and More...

45 trending topics that matter for today’s mover

Best Metros in America

Discover the top-rated Metros across America
Best Metros

Best Cities in America

The top-rated cities and towns across America
Best Places in America

Best Metros For Families

Explore the perfect Metros for Families
Best For Families

Continue Reading

Moving soon?

Receive valuable information and advice direct to your inbox.

Moving Checklist & Box Inventory Guides Included!

Join the First&Sold community

Connect With a REALTOR®

Buying or selling a home? Access First&Sold’s network of experienced REALTORS®

Buy first, sell after.

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to reach you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

We're excited to hear from you.

Let us know how to reach you and one of our friendly home specialist will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

The next step is a sold sign

Let us know the best way for a home advisor to contact you.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Meet Nuri Caplinger

Questions on Las Vegas real estate? Ready to buy or sell? Meet your local Professional, Nuri.

Learn how your information is protected in the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

Speak to an advisor

Enter your information and a home advisor will reach out to you shortly.

By submitting this form you agree that First&Sold may call/text/email you about your inquiry or for marketing, informational and related purposes. Message/data rates may apply. You also agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy