Illinois
Begin your new chapter in the Prairie State with our in-depth guides tailored for expats. Whether you’re drawn to the iconic skyline and cultural vibrancy of Chicago, the historic charm of Springfield, or the serene beauty of the Shawnee National Forest, Illinois has something for everyone. Our comprehensive resources will equip you with everything you need to seamlessly transition to your new life in Illinois.
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Resources for Expats in Illinois
In our resource hub you’ll find a wealth of information covering all the essential topics expats need to settle in quickly to their new life in the Prairie State.
Best Places to Live in Illinois: Top Spots for Expats
If you’re considering a move to the United States, the state of Illinois offers a diverse range of vibrant communities that cater to various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of a big city, the charm of a historic town, or the tranquility of suburban living, Illinois has something for everyone.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to live in Illinois, focusing on locations that offer a perfect blend of quality of life, cost of living, and access to amenities. From the iconic skyline of Chicago to the picturesque landscapes of smaller towns, Illinois presents a unique mix of urban sophistication and Midwestern warmth, making it an ideal destination for expats looking to make the USA their new home.
Why Choose to Settle in Illinois?
There are a number of reasons that make Illinois an ideal destination for those looking to start a new chapter in the United States. Its central location provides easy access to major cities across the country, while its diverse and thriving economy offers abundant job opportunities in industries ranging from finance and technology to healthcare and manufacturing.
The state is also home to world-class educational institutions and top-tier healthcare facilities, ensuring a high quality of life for residents. With its blend of urban vibrancy and Midwestern charm, Illinois is a place where you can build a successful and fulfilling life. For expats searching for accommodation in Illinois, be sure to give this guide to housing in the United States a read first.
Best Cities in Illinois for Expats
Chicago
As the third-largest city in the United States, Chicago is a dynamic metropolis with a global reputation. Known for its stunning architecture, world-class museums, and diverse culinary scene, Chicago is the best city in Illinois for those searching for a vibrant urban lifestyle. Chicago is also home to a large international community, making it easier for expats to find support networks and cultural connections.
Some of the best neighbourhoods to explore in Chicago include:
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Lincoln Park: Known for its green spaces, upscale living, and proximity to the lakefront.
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Wicker Park: Offers a trendy vibe with a strong arts scene and eclectic dining options.
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Hyde Park: Home to the University of Chicago, it boasts a rich history and a diverse, intellectual community.
Chicago also boasts several top-tier hospitals, such as Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Expats should ensure their international health insurance covers these facilities.
Naperville
Naperville is a suburban gem located just outside of Chicago, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and high quality of life. Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the U.S., Naperville offers excellent schools, beautiful parks, and a charming downtown area filled with shops, restaurants, and cultural activities. For expats seeking a quieter, more suburban lifestyle with easy access to the amenities of a big city, Naperville is an ideal choice.
Some of the best neighbourhoods to explore in Naperville include:
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Downtown Naperville: Known for its walkability, boutique shopping, and dining options.
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East Highlands: Offers beautiful parks, top-rated schools, and a strong sense of community.
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Ashbury: A family-friendly neighborhood with great amenities and community events.
Naperville has numerous hospitals and clinics. It’s crucial for expats to have international health insurance that covers specialist care, often needed in such a dynamic environment.
Elgin
Elgin, located along the Fox River about 40 miles northwest of Chicago, is a city known for its rich architectural heritage and vibrant arts scene. The city is also home to the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, one of the finest regional orchestras in the United States, reflecting the community’s strong commitment to the arts.
Some of the best neighborhoods to explore in Elgin include:
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Elgin Historic District: Known for its beautiful, historic homes and tree-lined streets, this neighborhood offers a charming, nostalgic feel with easy access to downtown Elgin.
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Lords Park: A family-friendly area surrounding one of Elgin’s largest parks, offering ample green space, a zoo, and a historic pavilion.
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West Elgin: This area has seen significant development in recent years, with newer homes, shopping centers, and easy access to major highways, making it convenient for commuters.
Elgin’s healthcare system is highly regarded, with facilities like Advocate Sherman Hospital. Ensure your international health care plan covers these top providers.
Springfield
Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is steeped in history and offers a welcoming, community-oriented atmosphere. Known for its association with Abraham Lincoln and its historic landmarks, Springfield combines a rich cultural heritage with a relaxed, small-city vibe. It’s an excellent choice for expats looking for a quieter, yet culturally rich environment.
Some of the best neighborhoods to explore in Springfield include:
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Lincoln Park: Known for its historic homes and proximity to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum.
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Westside: Offers newer developments, good schools, and family-friendly amenities.
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Enos Park: A historic neighborhood with charming architecture and a strong sense of community.
Springfield has a range of medical facilities. Check that your international health insurance covers both emergency and routine care.
Rockford
Rockford, located in northern Illinois, is the state’s third-largest city, offering a rich blend of cultural history, outdoor activities, and a welcoming community. Known as the “Forest City” due to its parks and green spaces, Rockford is one of the best places to live in Illinois for those who appreciate nature and a slower pace of life.
Some of the best neighbourhoods to explore in Rockford include:
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Midway Village: Known for its historic homes and proximity to Rockford’s central parks, this area offers a blend of charm and convenience.
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Perryville: A suburban neighborhood that provides newer housing developments, excellent schools, and easy access to shopping centers.
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Riverside: Located near the Rock River, this area offers scenic views, parks, and a strong sense of community.
Rockford supplies residents with top-notch medical facilities such as the OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center. Ensure your international health insurance plan includes coverage for all of Florida’s top healthcare providers.
Smaller Cities and Towns for Expats Living in IL
Evanston
Evanston, situated along Lake Michigan and just north of Chicago, combines small-town charm with the cultural vibrancy of a university town. Known for its walkable neighborhoods, diverse population, and proximity to Northwestern University, Evanston is one of the best places in Illinois for expats looking for a community-oriented environment with a rich cultural scene.
Some of the best neighborhoods to explore in Evanston include:
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Downtown Evanston: Offers a lively mix of shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
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North Shore: Known for its historic homes and scenic views along the lake.
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West Evanston: A more residential area with a strong sense of community and easy access to parks.
Facilities like Evanston Hospital are well-respected in the region. Make sure your international health care plan includes coverage in this area.
Peoria
Peoria, located along the Illinois River, is known for its strong industrial base and diverse economy, with major industries such as healthcare, manufacturing, and agriculture. Peoria boasts a lively arts and entertainment scene, with venues like the Peoria Civic Center and the Peoria Riverfront Museum. Peoria’s blend of urban amenities and small-town charm makes it a desirable place to live in Illinois.
Some of the best neighbourhoods to explore in Peoria include:
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Grandview Drive: Known for its scenic views and upscale homes along the Illinois River. It’s often referred to as “the world’s most beautiful drive” by locals.
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The Uplands: A historic district with charming homes, tree-lined streets, and a vibrant community atmosphere, offering a mix of architectural styles.
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North Peoria: Offers newer developments, excellent schools, and a family-friendly environment. This area is also close to shopping centers, restaurants, and recreational facilities.
Peoria is served by several high-quality medical centers, such as OSF Saint Francis Medical Center. Ensure your international health insurance plan includes these facilities.
Bloomington
Bloomington, located in central Illinois, is a thriving city known for its strong economy, excellent educational institutions, and vibrant cultural scene. As part of the Bloomington-Normal metro area, it benefits from major employers like Illinois State University, which contribute to its economic stability. The city’s downtown is rich in history, while Bloomington is also home to cultural events like the Illinois Shakespeare Festival.
Some of the best neighborhoods to explore in Bloomington include:
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Downtown Bloomington: Known for its historic architecture, local boutiques, and vibrant arts scene.
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White Place: Offers charming, tree-lined streets with beautiful historic homes.
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Tipton Trails: Family-friendly with access to parks, walking trails, and recreational facilities.
Bloomington’s OSF St. Joseph Medical Center is a top provider. Ensure your international health care covers this and other local facilities.
Find Your New Home in Illinois
Illinois has many great cities that cater to the needs of expats moving to the USA. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant urban life of Chicago, the family-friendly suburbs of Naperville, or the historic charm of smaller cities like Elgin and Bloomington, the state boasts many locations that combine a high quality of life with economic opportunities. From its central location and strong IL job market to its top-tier educational institutions and healthcare facilities, Illinois stands out as one of the best places to live in the United States.
As you plan your relocation, consider the unique characteristics of each city or town to find the best place to live in Illinois that best matches your lifestyle and needs. The Prairie State truly offers something for everyone, making it an exceptional choice for expats looking to start a new chapter in the USA. Find more resources in our guide to Illinois here.
Cost of Living in Illinois Explained for Expats
When considering a move to Illinois, understanding the cost of living is essential, especially for expats who may be unfamiliar with the economic landscape of the region. Illinois offers a diverse range of living environments, from bustling urban centers to serene suburban communities.
In this guide, we’ll delve into the cost of living in Illinois, focusing specifically on two crucial aspects: housing and groceries. These are often the biggest components of anyone’s budget, and prices can vary significantly across the state. For more information on popular locations across the state, take a look at the best places to live in Illinois here.
Cost of Housing in Illinois
When relocating to Illinois, one of the most important factors to consider is the cost of housing. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, the cost of accommodation in Illinois can vary significantly depending on the city and neighborhood you choose.
Understanding housing costs is essential for expats to make informed decisions about where to live based on their budget and lifestyle preferences.
Below is a detailed overview of housing costs in some of the key cities across Illinois, you can find our full guide to housing in the USA here.
Chicago
Chicago, the largest city in Illinois, is known for its iconic skyline, diverse neighborhoods, and vibrant cultural scene. The cost of housing in Chicago varies widely depending on the neighborhood, offering a range of options from luxury high-rises to more affordable apartments.
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Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Chicago is around $2,100 per month, with higher costs in downtown areas and luxury buildings.
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Home Prices: The median home price in Chicago is approximately $350,000, though this can vary significantly based on location, with prices higher in sought-after neighborhoods like Lincoln Park and the Gold Coast.
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Neighborhoods: High-demand areas such as Lincoln Park, River North, and the West Loop have higher housing costs, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Albany Park, Avondale, and Rogers Park.
Naperville
Naperville, a suburban city located about 30 miles west of Chicago, is frequently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S.
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Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Naperville is around $1,800 per month, with larger homes or properties near the downtown area costing more.
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Home Prices: The median home price in Naperville is approximately $450,000, reflecting its status as a desirable suburban community with high-quality amenities.
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Neighborhoods: High-demand areas like Downtown Naperville and White Eagle Club have higher housing costs, while more affordable options are available in neighborhoods like Winding Creek and Old Farm.
Average Rent Prices/ Month
Elgin
Elgin, located northwest of Chicago, is known for its historic architecture and vibrant community life. The city offers a wide range of housing options, from charming older homes to modern developments.
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Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Elgin is around $1,300 per month, with larger homes or properties in desirable neighborhoods costing more.
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Home Prices: The median home price in Elgin is approximately $280,000, making it a mid-range option within the Chicago metropolitan area, appealing to both renters and homebuyers.
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Suburban Areas: Popular areas like Randall Ridge and Century Oaks have higher housing costs, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Gifford Park and Wing Park.
Springfield
Springfield, the state capital of Illinois, is steeped in history and offers a low cost of living with a small-town feel.
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Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Springfield is around $850 per month, with larger homes or properties in central areas costing more.
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Home Prices: The median home price in Springfield is approximately $160,000, making it one of the more affordable cities in Illinois for both renters and buyers.
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Suburban Areas: High-demand areas like Westchester and Leland Grove have slightly higher housing costs, while neighborhoods like Southern View and Grandview are slightly cheaper.
Rockford
Rockford, located in northern Illinois, is known for its natural beauty and industrial history. It offers some of the most affordable housing options in the state, with a variety of homes available across different neighborhoods.
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Rent: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Rockford is around $900 per month, with larger homes or properties in prime locations costing more.
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Home Prices: The median home price in Rockford is approximately $140,000, making it an attractive option for those looking for affordable living in Illinois.
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Suburban Areas: Popular areas like Guilford Country Club Estates and Edgebrook offer higher housing costs, while more affordable options can be found in neighborhoods like Rolling Green and Keith Creek.
Cost of Groceries in Illinois
Groceries are a key component of the monthly budget, and in Illinois, the cost of groceries can vary significantly depending on the city. Generally, urban areas and those closer to Chicago tend to have higher grocery prices, while smaller cities may offer more affordable options.
Chicago
In Chicago, grocery prices are generally higher than the state average, reflecting the city’s overall cost of living. Basic staples like bread, milk, and eggs can be pricier, especially in more upscale neighborhoods and downtown areas. Fresh produce is widely available, though prices can vary depending on whether you shop at organic markets, local farmer’s markets, or larger chain supermarkets. Meats and seafood, popular in Chicago’s diverse culinary scene, also tend to be more expensive, particularly in gourmet stores.
Naperville
Naperville, being a popular suburban area near Chicago, sees grocery prices that are slightly higher than the state average. The cost of essentials like milk, bread, and eggs is relatively high, especially at organic and specialty food stores. However, the presence of both large chain supermarkets and local grocery stores gives residents options to manage their grocery budget more effectively.
Elgin
In Elgin, grocery prices are more moderate compared to Chicago and Naperville, offering a more budget-friendly option for expats living in Illinois. The cost of staple items such as bread, milk, and eggs is closer to the national average, with fresh produce and meats available at competitive prices. Local markets and larger grocery chains both operate in the area, providing a range of choices for residents to manage their grocery costs.
Springfield
Springfield, as the state capital, offers some of the most affordable grocery prices among the IL cities listed. The cost of basic items like milk, bread, and eggs is lower than in the larger cities, reflecting Springfield’s lower overall cost of living. Fresh produce is readily accessible, and while prices can vary, they tend to be lower than in more urbanized areas.
Rockford
Rockford has some of the lowest grocery costs in Illinois, making it a great option for expats looking to save on living expenses. Prices for staples such as milk, bread, and eggs are typically below the state average. Fresh produce and meats are available at reasonable prices, with a variety of supermarkets and local grocery stores offering competitive pricing. This affordability extends to most grocery items, helping residents maintain a lower cost of living in this northern Illinois city.
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