Last Updated on October 30, 2022 by Lily Connel
Chicago is the best-known city in Illinois. In the US, Illinois is nicknamed “the Prairie State.”
Illinois is a place with both good and bad. It’s the home of McDonald’s, landscapes, and agriculture, but it also has crime, traffic, and brutal winters.
Pros and Cons of Living in Illinois – The Comparision Table
| Serial | Pros of Living in Illinois | Cons of Living in Illinois |
| 1. | Illinois living costs are affordable. | Illinois weather can be extreme. |
| 2. | The state has no income tax | The highest crime rates in Illinois. |
| 3. | The cities are teeming with life and excitement. | The Job Market is Challenging. |
| 4. | The Education System is Excellence. | The Healthcare system is not good. |
| 5. | Illinois is experiencing a strong and powerful economy. | Transportation in Illinois is costly. |
| 6. | Illinois is full of activities for people of all ages. | Natural disasters area in Illinois. |
| 7. | The minimum wage is going to go up. | The weather is unpredictable in Illinois. |
Pros of Living in Illinois
Pro #01: The Cost of Living is Affordable
One of the biggest pros of living in Illinois is that the cost of living is relatively affordable. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, the cost of living in Illinois is about 11% cheaper than the national average. And when you compare it to other states in the Midwest, like Michigan and Wisconsin, Illinois is even more affordable.
Pro #02: There’s No State Income Tax
Another plus side to living in Illinois is no state income tax. That means more money in your pocket every year. And if you’re a retiree, you’ll be happy to know that Illinois doesn’t tax Social Security benefits either.
Pro #03: The Cities are Diverse and Vibrant
Illinois has it all, whether you’re looking for a big city or a small town. Chicago, of course, is the most popular destination. But other cities like Springfield and Peoria offer a different kind of charm. And with so many different cultures represented, you’re sure to find a community that feels like home.
Pro #04: There’s Plenty to Do
There’s always something to do in Illinois, from hiking and camping in the great outdoors to exploring world-class museums and restaurants. And with four distinct seasons, you’ll never get bored.
Pro #05: The Education System is Strong
If you have kids or are thinking about starting a family, you’ll be happy to know that Illinois has a robust education system. The state ranks third in the nation for public school spending. And with top-ranked universities like the University of Illinois and Northwestern University, your kids will have access to some of the best schools in the country.
Cons of Living in Illinois
Con #01: The Weather Can Be Extreme
One of the biggest cons of living in Illinois is the weather. From hot and humid summers to cold and snowy winters, the Prairie State can have extreme temperatures. And if you’re not a fan of severe weather, you might want to think twice about moving to Illinois.
Con #02: There’s a lot of Crime
Unfortunately, crime is also a big issue in Illinois. Chicago has one of the highest crime rates in the country. So if you’re thinking about moving to Windy City, it’s essential to be aware of the risks.
Con #03: The Job Market is Competitive
The job market in Illinois is competitive, especially in the cities. So if you’re looking for work, you’ll need to make sure your resume is up to par.
Con #04: Traffic Can Be a Nightmare
If you live in Illinois, you’re probably used to sitting in traffic. That’s because the state has some of the worst roads in the country. So if you’re not a fan of long commutes, you might want to consider moving to a smaller town or city.
Con #05: It’s Not the Healthiest State
According to the United Health Foundation, Illinois ranks 38th in the nation for overall health. So if you’re looking for a healthy lifestyle, you might want to choose another state.
Illinois is a great place to live. But like any state, it has its pros and cons. So if you’re thinking about moving to Illinois, make sure you do your research first. That way, you can be sure it’s the right decision for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of living in Illinois?
The cost of living in Illinois is relatively high compared to other states in the Midwest. The average home price in Illinois is $215,000, which is significantly higher than the national average of $184,000. Additionally, the state’s sales tax rate is six percent, and the gas tax rate is 19 cents per gallon, which is higher than the national average. However, the state does offer a property tax credit for residents who own their homes.
What is the job market like in Illinois?
The job market in Illinois is robust and offers opportunities in various industries. The state’s unemployment rate is currently at four percent – slightly lower than the national average of four and a half percent. Additionally, the median household income in Illinois is $62,992 – which is significantly higher than the national median household income of $60,336.
What are the schools like in Illinois?
There are a variety of excellent schools located throughout Illinois. Six of the state’s universities – including Northwestern University and the University of Chicago – are ranked among the country’s top 100 colleges and universities. Additionally, Illinois’ public school system is regularly ranked among the best in the nation.
What is the weather like in Illinois?
The weather in Illinois can be pretty extreme – particularly in the winter months. In January, the average high temperature is only 30 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average low temperature is 16 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the state does experience all four seasons so that residents can enjoy activities like hiking, biking, and swimming during the warmer months.
Overall, there are both pros and cons to living in Illinois. However, it ultimately comes down to what you’re looking for in a state to call home. If you’re interested in a state with a strong job market, excellent schools, and various activities to enjoy, Illinois may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a state with a lower cost of living, you may want to consider another option.
