1. Chicago

• Population: Approximately 2.7 million
• Facts:
  • The third-largest city in the United States.
  • Known for its iconic skyline, including landmarks like Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center.
  • Offers world-class museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.
  • Famous for its deep-dish pizza, jazz and blues music, and diverse neighborhoods.
  • Home to major sports teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bears, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Blackhawks.

2. Aurora

• Population: Approximately 200,000
• Facts:
  • The second-largest city in Illinois, located in the western suburbs of Chicago.
  • Known for its historic downtown and the Paramount Theatre, a landmark for live performances.
  • Features the Fox River, providing scenic views and recreational activities.
  • Home to a diverse community with a rich cultural heritage.

3. Naperville

• Population: Approximately 150,000
• Facts:
  • Consistently ranked among the best places to live in the United States.
  • Known for its excellent schools, family-friendly environment, and high quality of life.
  • Features the Riverwalk, a picturesque pathway along the DuPage River with shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
  • A major hub for technology and healthcare industries.

4. Joliet

• Population: Approximately 150,000
• Facts:
  • Known for its rich history and architecture, including the Rialto Square Theatre.
  • Home to the Chicagoland Speedway and Route 66 Raceway, popular venues for motorsports.
  • The Des Plaines River runs through the city, offering recreational opportunities.
  • A growing city with a mix of suburban and urban amenities.

5. Rockford

• Population: Approximately 145,000
• Facts:
  • Known as the “Forest City” due to its numerous parks and green spaces.
  • Home to the Anderson Japanese Gardens, one of the top Japanese gardens in North America.
  • Features the Rockford Art Museum and the Discovery Center Museum, a top-rated children’s museum.
  • Historically an industrial city, now diversifying into healthcare, aerospace, and manufacturing sectors.

6. Springfield

• Population: Approximately 115,000
• Facts:
  • The state capital of Illinois and the former home of President Abraham Lincoln.
  • Attractions include the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, Lincoln’s Home National Historic Site, and the Illinois State Capitol.
  • Known for its historic downtown and vibrant arts and cultural scene.
  • Hosts the Illinois State Fair, an annual event attracting visitors from across the state.

7. Peoria

• Population: Approximately 110,000
• Facts:
  • Located along the Illinois River, offering scenic views and outdoor activities.
  • Home to Caterpillar Inc., a major global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment.
  • Features the Peoria Riverfront Museum and the Peoria Civic Center, venues for cultural and entertainment events.
  • Known for its strong healthcare sector, with facilities like OSF Saint Francis Medical Center and UnityPoint Health.

8. Elgin

• Population: Approximately 110,000
• Facts:
  • Located along the Fox River, offering a blend of urban and suburban living.
  • Known for its historic downtown area with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
  • Home to the Grand Victoria Casino, a popular entertainment destination.
  • Features numerous parks and recreational facilities, including the Elgin Symphony Orchestra.

9. Waukegan

• Population: Approximately 85,000
• Facts:
  • Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering beautiful waterfront views and activities.
  • Known for its diverse community and vibrant arts scene, including the Genesee Theatre.
  • Features the Waukegan Harbor, a hub for boating and fishing.
  • Home to several historic landmarks and cultural institutions.

10. Champaign-Urbana

• Population: Approximately 85,000 (Champaign), 42,000 (Urbana)
• Facts:
  • Together, these twin cities form the Champaign-Urbana metropolitan area.
  • Home to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, a top-ranked public research university.
  • Known for a vibrant cultural scene, including the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.
  • Features a strong technology and startup ecosystem, often referred to as the “Silicon Prairie.”

These cities are recognized for their economic significance, cultural attractions, and quality of life, making them some of the top-rated places to live in Illinois.

1. Danville

• Population: Approximately 30,000
• Affordability: Known for low housing costs and overall cost of living.
• Facts:
  • Located near the Indiana border, providing access to both states’ amenities.
  • Home to several parks and recreational areas, including Kickapoo State Recreation Area.
  • Historically an industrial city with a strong manufacturing base.

2. Decatur

• Population: Approximately 70,000
• Affordability: Offers some of the most affordable housing in the state.
• Facts:
  • Known for its rich agricultural history and as the home of major agribusiness companies like Archer Daniels Midland (ADM).
  • Features Millikin University, providing educational and cultural opportunities.
  • Offers recreational activities at Lake Decatur and several city parks.

3. Peoria

• Population: Approximately 110,000
• Affordability: Lower housing costs compared to many other cities in Illinois.
• Facts:
  • Located along the Illinois River, offering scenic views and outdoor activities.
  • Home to Caterpillar Inc., a major global manufacturer of construction and mining equipment.
  • Features the Peoria Riverfront Museum and the Peoria Civic Center, venues for cultural and entertainment events.

4. Rockford

• Population: Approximately 145,000
• Affordability: Known for its relatively low cost of living and affordable housing market.
• Facts:
  • Known as the “Forest City” due to its numerous parks and green spaces.
  • Home to the Anderson Japanese Gardens, one of the top Japanese gardens in North America.
  • Features the Rockford Art Museum and the Discovery Center Museum, a top-rated children’s museum.

5. Bloomington

• Population: Approximately 80,000
• Affordability: Offers affordable housing and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities.
• Facts:
  • Home to Illinois State University and Illinois Wesleyan University, contributing to a vibrant college town atmosphere.
  • Known for its historic downtown, with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
  • Features the Miller Park Zoo and several parks and recreational facilities.

6. Alton

• Population: Approximately 25,000
• Affordability: Noted for its affordable housing and lower living costs.
• Facts:
  • Located on the Mississippi River, offering scenic views and a rich history.
  • Known for its historic architecture and landmarks, including the Elijah P. Lovejoy Monument.
  • Offers outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking along the river and bluffs.

7. Galesburg

• Population: Approximately 30,000
• Affordability: Offers some of the most affordable housing in Illinois.
• Facts:
  • Known for its historic downtown and as the home of Knox College.
  • Features the Galesburg Railroad Museum and the Discovery Depot Children’s Museum.
  • Hosts the annual Railroad Days festival, celebrating the city’s railroading heritage.

8. Quincy

• Population: Approximately 40,000
• Affordability: Known for low housing costs and an affordable cost of living.
• Facts:
  • Located along the Mississippi River, offering beautiful river views and outdoor activities.
  • Features historic architecture, with many homes and buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
  • Home to Quincy University, providing educational and cultural opportunities.

9. Carbondale

• Population: Approximately 25,000
• Affordability: Offers affordable housing, particularly for students and families.
• Facts:
  • Home to Southern Illinois University, contributing to a vibrant college town atmosphere.
  • Located near the Shawnee National Forest, providing access to hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities.
  • Known for its diverse community and active arts and music scene.

10. Freeport

• Population: Approximately 25,000
• Affordability: Offers low housing costs and a generally affordable cost of living.
• Facts:
  • Known for its historic downtown and Victorian architecture.
  • Features the Stephenson County Historical Society Museum and the Freeport Art Museum.
  • Offers recreational opportunities at Krape Park, including a waterfall and paddle boating.

These cities provide more affordable living options while still offering a range of amenities, recreational activities, and a good quality of life.

1. Winnetka

• Population: Approximately 12,500
• Affluence: One of the wealthiest suburbs in Illinois, with high median household incomes and property values.
• Facts:
  • Located along Lake Michigan’s North Shore, offering scenic views and lakefront properties.
  • Known for its excellent schools, including New Trier High School.
  • Features beautiful historic homes and a charming downtown area with upscale shops and restaurants.

2. Glencoe

• Population: Approximately 9,000
• Affluence: Noted for its high median household income and luxurious real estate.
• Facts:
  • Located on the North Shore, offering picturesque lakefront and wooded areas.
  • Home to the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Glencoe Golf Club.
  • Known for its top-rated schools and strong sense of community.

3. Lake Forest

• Population: Approximately 19,000
• Affluence: Known for its wealth, with high median incomes and prestigious homes.
• Facts:
  • Features beautiful estates and historic homes along Lake Michigan.
  • Home to Lake Forest College and several prestigious private schools.
  • Offers a vibrant downtown with upscale shopping, dining, and cultural attractions.

4. Hinsdale

• Population: Approximately 17,000
• Affluence: High median household income and exclusive real estate market.
• Facts:
  • Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, known for its beautiful tree-lined streets and historic homes.
  • Excellent schools, including Hinsdale Central High School, consistently ranked among the best in the state.
  • Features a charming downtown area with boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.

5. Kenilworth

• Population: Approximately 2,500
• Affluence: One of the wealthiest communities in Illinois, with very high median household incomes.
• Facts:
  • Located on the North Shore of Chicago, known for its elegant homes and quiet, residential atmosphere.
  • Offers top-rated schools and close-knit community living.
  • Proximity to Lake Michigan provides residents with easy access to beaches and water activities.

6. Oak Brook

• Population: Approximately 8,000
• Affluence: High median household income and a large number of corporate headquarters.
• Facts:
  • Home to many corporate offices, including McDonald’s and Ace Hardware.
  • Known for the Oakbrook Center, a premier shopping destination with luxury retailers.
  • Features expansive estates, top-rated schools, and excellent recreational facilities, including golf courses and parks.

7. Highland Park

• Population: Approximately 30,000
• Affluence: Wealthy suburb with high median incomes and desirable real estate.
• Facts:
  • Located on the North Shore, known for its cultural attractions, including the Ravinia Festival, a popular outdoor music venue.
  • Offers a mix of historic homes and modern architecture, with beautiful parks and beaches.
  • Excellent public and private schools, contributing to its appeal for families.

8. Burr Ridge

• Population: Approximately 11,000
• Affluence: Known for its luxurious homes and high median household income.
• Facts:
  • Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, known for its spacious properties and tranquil atmosphere.
  • Features upscale shopping and dining at the Burr Ridge Village Center.
  • Offers excellent schools and a range of recreational facilities, including parks and golf courses.

9. Barrington

• Population: Approximately 10,000 (village), 44,000 (Barrington area)
• Affluence: High median household income and prestigious residential areas.
• Facts:
  • Located in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, known for its historic downtown and equestrian estates.
  • Offers top-rated schools and a strong sense of community.
  • Features a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, horseback riding, and water sports at nearby lakes.

10. Naperville

• Population: Approximately 150,000
• Affluence: One of the wealthiest large cities in Illinois, with high median household incomes.
• Facts:
  • Known for its excellent schools, family-friendly environment, and high quality of life.
  • Features the Riverwalk, a picturesque pathway along the DuPage River with shops, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
  • A major hub for technology and healthcare industries, contributing to its economic prosperity.

These cities are known for their high median incomes, luxurious homes, excellent schools, and quality of life, making them some of the wealthiest places to live in Illinois.

1. Burr Ridge Club (Burr Ridge)

• Location: Burr Ridge
• Facts:
  • An exclusive gated community known for its luxurious homes and private amenities.
  • Features include a private clubhouse, swimming pool, and tennis courts.
  • The subdivision is characterized by large lots, beautiful landscaping, and a tranquil environment.

2. Winnetka Heights (Winnetka)

• Location: Winnetka
• Facts:
  • Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets.
  • Close to top-rated schools and the charming downtown area of Winnetka.
  • Offers proximity to Lake Michigan, providing residents with beautiful views and beach access.

3. Lake Forest Estates (Lake Forest)

• Location: Lake Forest
• Facts:
  • A prestigious subdivision with stately homes and large, wooded lots.
  • Known for its proximity to Lake Forest’s excellent schools and downtown area.
  • The subdivision offers a peaceful, suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city’s amenities.

4. The Glen (Glenview)

• Location: Glenview
• Facts:
  • A master-planned community built on the site of the former Glenview Naval Air Station.
  • Features a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and condominiums.
  • Amenities include parks, a lake, walking trails, a golf course, and a vibrant town center with shops and restaurants.

5. Hyde Park (Chicago)

• Location: Chicago
• Facts:
  • Known for its historic homes, tree-lined streets, and diverse community.
  • Home to the University of Chicago, which adds to the area’s cultural and intellectual vibrancy.
  • Offers a mix of residential, educational, and cultural amenities, including the Museum of Science and Industry.

6. Indian Hill Estates (Winnetka)

• Location: Winnetka
• Facts:
  • An affluent neighborhood with large, elegant homes and manicured lawns.
  • Close to top-rated schools and the Winnetka Golf Club.
  • Known for its serene environment and easy access to Lake Michigan.

7. Tallgrass (Naperville)

• Location: Naperville
• Facts:
  • A popular subdivision known for its family-friendly environment and excellent amenities.
  • Features a clubhouse, swimming pool, tennis courts, and walking trails.
  • Located within the highly regarded Indian Prairie School District 204.

8. Mill Creek (Geneva)

• Location: Geneva
• Facts:
  • A large master-planned community with a variety of home styles.
  • Features amenities like golf courses, parks, walking trails, and a town center with shops and services.
  • Known for its scenic setting and proximity to Geneva’s charming downtown area.

9. Southport Corridor (Chicago)

• Location: Chicago
• Facts:
  • A vibrant neighborhood known for its historic architecture and bustling commercial district.
  • Offers a mix of single-family homes, townhomes, and apartments.
  • Features numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options along Southport Avenue.

10. Evanston Lakeshore Historic District (Evanston)

• Location: Evanston
• Facts:
  • Known for its historic homes and proximity to Lake Michigan.
  • Offers beautiful lakefront views, parks, and beaches.
  • Close to Northwestern University, providing cultural and educational opportunities.

11. Lincoln Park (Chicago)

• Location: Chicago
• Facts:
  • One of Chicago’s most desirable neighborhoods, known for its historic homes and vibrant atmosphere.
  • Features Lincoln Park itself, with the zoo, conservatory, and numerous recreational facilities.
  • Offers a mix of residential, commercial, and cultural amenities, with easy access to downtown Chicago.

12. Oak Brook Club (Oak Brook)

• Location: Oak Brook
• Facts:
  • A gated community known for its luxurious condos and townhomes.
  • Features private amenities such as a clubhouse, swimming pool, and walking trails.
  • Close to Oakbrook Center, a premier shopping destination with upscale retailers and dining options.

These subdivisions are known for their high quality of life, excellent amenities, and beautiful homes, making them some of the best places to live in Illinois.

1. New Trier Township High School District 203

• Location: Winnetka, Northfield, and surrounding areas
• Facts:
  • Consistently ranked among the top school districts in Illinois and the nation.
  • Known for its rigorous academic programs, including Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses.
  • Offers extensive extracurricular activities, including athletics, arts, and clubs.
  • New Trier High School boasts state-of-the-art facilities and a strong alumni network.

2. Naperville Community Unit School District 203

• Location: Naperville
• Facts:
  • Highly regarded for its strong academic performance and comprehensive educational programs.
  • Known for high graduation rates and excellent college placement records.
  • Offers a wide range of AP courses and extracurricular activities.
  • Schools like Naperville Central High School and Naperville North High School are consistently top-ranked.

3. Indian Prairie School District 204

• Location: Aurora, Naperville, Bolingbrook, and Plainfield
• Facts:
  • One of the largest and most diverse school districts in Illinois.
  • Recognized for its academic excellence and innovative programs.
  • Offers robust STEM programs, fine arts, and athletics.
  • Neuqua Valley High School and Waubonsie Valley High School are notable for their strong academic and extracurricular achievements.

4. Adlai E. Stevenson High School District 125

• Location: Lincolnshire and surrounding areas
• Facts:
  • Known for its high academic standards and comprehensive curriculum.
  • Offers a wide variety of AP courses and extracurricular activities.
  • Consistently ranks among the top high schools in the state and nation.
  • Stevenson High School has a reputation for excellence in academics, arts, and athletics.

5. Barrington Community Unit School District 220

• Location: Barrington and surrounding areas
• Facts:
  • Recognized for its high-quality education and strong community support.
  • Offers a wide range of academic programs, including AP courses and dual enrollment options.
  • Known for its excellent arts and athletics programs.
  • Barrington High School is frequently ranked among the best high schools in Illinois.

6. Hinsdale Township High School District 86

• Location: Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills, Burr Ridge, and Darien
• Facts:
  • Known for its rigorous academic programs and high graduation rates.
  • Offers numerous AP courses and extracurricular opportunities.
  • Hinsdale Central High School and Hinsdale South High School are both highly regarded.
  • The district emphasizes college readiness and student success.

7. Glenbrook High School District 225

• Location: Glenview and Northbrook
• Facts:
  • Known for academic excellence and a wide range of educational opportunities.
  • Offers a variety of AP and honors courses, as well as strong extracurricular programs.
  • Glenbrook North High School and Glenbrook South High School are both top-ranked.
  • The district places a strong emphasis on innovation and student achievement.

8. Northfield Township High School District 225

• Location: Northbrook
• Facts:
  • Renowned for its high academic standards and comprehensive curriculum.
  • Offers extensive AP and honors programs, as well as a strong focus on the arts and athletics.
  • Glenbrook North High School and Glenbrook South High School are consistently ranked among the top schools.
  • The district emphasizes a well-rounded education with a focus on preparing students for college and careers.

9. Elmhurst Community Unit School District 205

• Location: Elmhurst
• Facts:
  • Recognized for its academic excellence and strong community support.
  • Offers a variety of advanced courses, extracurricular activities, and athletics.
  • York Community High School is known for its high academic performance and diverse programs.
  • The district focuses on student engagement and personalized learning.

10. Deerfield Public Schools District 109

• Location: Deerfield
• Facts:
  • Known for its high academic standards and supportive learning environment.
  • Offers a range of advanced courses and extracurricular opportunities.
  • Deerfield High School is highly regarded for its academic achievements and college readiness programs.
  • The district emphasizes innovative teaching practices and student success.

These school districts are recognized for their academic excellence, diverse program offerings, and strong community support, making them some of the best in Illinois.