Illinois, known for its diverse landscapes and vibrant cities, offers a unique blend of urban and rural living. Let’s explore key aspects of life in the Land of Lincoln.
Cost of Living
Illinois boasts a cost of living that is 8% lower than the national average. This affordability extends across various sectors:
- Housing costs are 22% lower than the national average
- Food costs are 2% lower
- Healthcare services are 6% lower
- Utilities are 10% lower
However, transportation costs are 3% higher than the national average[7].
Housing Market
The Illinois housing market remains relatively affordable:
- Median home value: $267,365 (as of October 2024)
- Year-over-year increase: 8.9%
- Median sale price: $257,800 (as of January 2024)
While prices have risen, they remain below the national median. The sale-to-list price ratio is at 98.1%, indicating a competitive market[1][2].
Education
Illinois faces both challenges and successes in education:
- Ranked 16th in education according to U.S. News & World Report
- Home to three of the best school districts in the country, according to Niche rankings
- Adlai E. Stevenson High School District 125 in Lincolnshire ranked as the top district in the state
Despite these achievements, the state continues to work on improving educational outcomes across all regions[3][4].
Healthcare
Healthcare in Illinois presents a mixed picture:
- Ranked 28th in overall healthcare quality and access
- Faces challenges in public health
- Rush University Medical Center in Chicago ranked as the top hospital in the state for 2024
The state continues to work on improving healthcare access and quality across all regions[4][5].
Transportation and Infrastructure
Illinois’ infrastructure received mixed reviews:
- Ranked 25th in infrastructure according to U.S. News & World Report
- Ranked 29th in overall highway performance and cost-effectiveness
- 20.7% of roads are in poor condition, slightly higher than the national average of 18.3%
- Average commute time is 27.9 minutes, slightly above the national average
Despite these challenges, Illinois ranked 1st in the U.S. for infrastructure in a 2021 CNBC ranking, thanks to its extensive freight lines, roadways, and reliable power grid[4][6][10].
In conclusion, Illinois in 2024 presents a mix of affordability and significant challenges. While the lower cost of living offers advantages, the state must continue to address issues in education, healthcare, and infrastructure to enhance the quality of life for all its residents. As Illinois evolves, it remains a state of contrasts, balancing its rich heritage with the demands of modern living.
Citations:
[1] https://www.unbiased.com/discover/banking/what-is-the-cost-of-living-in-illinois
[2] https://www.houzeo.com/blog/illinois-real-estate-market/
[3] https://www.shawlocal.com/news/2024/10/02/the-best-illinois-school-districts-according-to-a-new-ranking/
[4] https://www.usnews.com/news/best-states/illinois
[5] https://www.nbcchicago.com/news/local/these-are-the-best-hospitals-in-illinois-new-national-ranking-says/3595294/
[6] https://www.illinoispolicy.org/illinois-infrastructure-ranks-high-but-state-finances-pose-big-threat/
[7] https://www.rentcafe.com/cost-of-living-calculator/us/il/
[8] https://innago.com/illinois-housing-market-trends-forecast/
[9] https://patch.com/illinois/across-il/these-are-best-schools-il-2024-rankings
[10] https://reason.org/policy-study/27th-annual-highway-report/illinois/
