10 Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Illinois

Illinois has a diverse economy and major industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and finance. While Illinois offers many opportunities, potential residents should also weigh factors such as the high crime rate.

What You’ll Learn

This 2025 guide covers the cost of living, jobs, transportation, and lifestyle so you can prepare for your move.

• How much does it cost to live in Illinois

• What the housing market is like

• Where to find job opportunities

Overview

Moving to Illinois can be a good option for various reasons, including job opportunities, cultural amenities, and access to healthcare and education. The best reasons depend on an individual's priorities, such as the job market, cost of living, and weather preference.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Cost of Living

Illinois's cost of living is close to the national average, with variations depending on the region, though property taxes are notably high.

Education

Illinois provides diverse educational options, ranging from highly rated public schools and private institutions to leading universities.

Housing Market

The housing market in Illinois offers a wide range of options from urban apartments to suburban homes and rural properties, with varying costs and taxes.

Climate and Weather

Illinois experiences four distinct seasons, including cold, snowy winters and hot, humid summers, with potential for severe weather.

Employment Opportunities

Illinois has a diverse economy with job opportunities across various industries, with concentrations in finance, tech, healthcare, and agriculture.

Transportation

Transportation options vary widely. Excellent public transit exists in Chicago and its suburbs, while personal vehicles are essential in rural areas.

Healthcare

Illinois residents generally have strong healthcare access, particularly in metro areas, with a network of hospitals and various insurance options.

Grocery and Food Costs

Grocery costs are close to the national average, with access to fresh produce from local agriculture and diverse dining options.

Utilities

Utility costs are manageable, but winter heating bills can be high, especially in older homes, though energy rebates are available.

Community Life

Illinois offers diverse community life, vibrant city activities in Chicago and smaller town events, and state parks for outdoor recreation.

Other Notable Considerations

Shipping Services: Companies like AmeriFreight offer car shipping services to help with relocation to Illinois.

Why Are People Moving to Illinois?

Many people move to Illinois for job opportunities, cultural amenities, and access to some of the country’s top healthcare and education systems. Chicago is an economic powerhouse, while suburban areas offer affordable living near city centers. In southern and central Illinois, smaller towns provide space, lower home prices, and a slower pace.

While the state faces challenges like high property taxes and winter weather, its strong sense of community, rich history, and vibrant cultural life continue to draw new residents.

10 Essential Considerations for Moving to Illinois

1. Cost of Living

Illinois' cost of living is close to the national average, although it varies by region. Housing tends to be affordable compared to coastal states, but property taxes are some of the highest in the country. Utilities, groceries, and healthcare costs are close to national norms, but transportation costs vary depending on location.

• Groceries: Urban areas are slightly more expensive, but prices in rural towns are more affordable.

• Healthcare: Costs are similar to national averages with strong urban access.

• Housing: Median home prices statewide are around $270,000, but homes in downtown Chicago can be much more expensive.

• Property Taxes: Among the highest property taxes in the U.S., especially near Chicago suburbs

• Utilities: Winter heating costs are high, especially in older homes.

2. Education in Illinois

Illinois offers a range of education options, from highly rated public school districts to respected private schools and leading universities. Families moving to Illinois often research school quality before choosing a community.

Public school quality varies by district. Suburban districts near Chicago, such as Naperville and Evanston, rank among the best in the country. Rural schools may offer smaller class sizes but fewer resources. The state also has strong charter school networks and support for homeschooling families.

Whether raising a family or seeking higher education, Illinois offers strong options at every level.

3. Housing Market

Illinois’ housing market provides a wide range of options. You’ll find everything from downtown Chicago apartments to large suburban homes to rural farmland properties.

• Real Estate Taxes: High property taxes can add hundreds to monthly costs, especially in suburban counties.

• Suburban and Rural: More affordable housing options with larger lots and quieter neighborhoods.

• Urban Living: Downtown condos and apartments can cost over $400,000 or rent for $1,800–$3,000 monthly.

New residents should carefully research local taxes and compare neighborhoods to balance home prices with ongoing costs.

4. Climate and Weather

Illinois experiences four distinct seasons. Winters are cold and snowy, while summers are hot and humid. Spring and fall are mild but can bring heavy rain and storms.

• Severe Weather: Thunderstorms, tornadoes, and heavy rains can occur, especially in spring and early summer.

• Summer: High humidity with temperatures in the 80s°F and 90s°F.

• Winter: Temperatures often fall below freezing, with snowstorms common from December through February.

Residents should prepare their homes and vehicles for all types of weather, from icy roads to summer heat.

5. Employment Opportunities

Illinois has a diverse economy and offers jobs across various industries. Chicago leads in finance, tech, healthcare, and logistics, while rural areas focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and education.

• Job Outlook: Professional associations and networking events are common in cities like Chicago and Springfield.

• Major Industries: Healthcare, finance, agriculture, education, manufacturing, and transportation.

• Remote Work: Gaining popularity, especially near metro areas.

Job seekers should consider location carefully, as opportunities vary widely between urban and rural areas.

6. Transportation

Transportation options vary depending on where you live. One of the nation’s best public transit networks serves Chicago and its suburbs, while most rural areas require personal vehicles.

• Driving: Essential in rural and suburban areas.

• Public Transit: CTA trains and buses serve Chicago and inner suburbs. Metra commuter trains connect outlying towns.

• Winter Driving: Snow tires, emergency kits, and preparedness are essential during the colder months.

Parking can be expensive in downtown Chicago, but public transportation often reduces the need for a personal car.

7. Healthcare

Illinois residents have strong healthcare access, especially near metro areas. Rural regions may have fewer hospitals, but telehealth options are improving access.

• Emergency Care: Well-established network of hospitals and urgent care centers in cities and suburbs.

• Insurance Access: People widely use private plans, employer-sponsored coverage, and Medicaid.

• Major Health Systems: Northwestern Medicine, Advocate Health, and OSF HealthCare.

Healthcare quality is high overall, but patients in rural areas may need to travel farther for specialized care.

8. Grocery and Food Costs

Grocery costs in Illinois are close to the national average, but city living is slightly more expensive. The state's agriculture industry means fresh produce is widely available at farmers' markets.

• Dining Out: Chicago offers a world-famous food scene, from deep-dish pizza to global cuisine.

• Farmers’ Markets: Common in both urban and rural communities

• Local Agriculture: Corn, soybeans, apples, and pumpkins are widely grown.

Shopping locally and cooking at home helps save money and supports Illinois farmers.

9. Utilities

Illinois utilities are manageable, but heating bills can spike during winter. Many homes are heated by natural gas or electric furnaces.

• Electricity and Gas: Prices are close to national averages, but winter use increases bills.

• Energy Rebates: Illinois offers programs for energy-efficient home upgrades.

• Tips: Insulating homes, sealing windows, and using smart thermostats can lower costs.

Budgeting extra for winter utility expenses is essential, especially in older homes.

10. Community Life

Illinois communities are known for their friendliness, diversity, and various activities. Whether in a Chicago neighborhood or a small town, you’ll find opportunities to meet people and get involved.

• City Life: Arts, sports, theater, museums, and public parks in Chicago.

• Small Towns: Parades, fairs, markets, and volunteer opportunities

• State Parks: Outdoor recreation includes hiking, fishing, and camping across Illinois.

Building community connections helps new residents settle in quickly and enjoy all Illinois has to offer.

Final Thoughts on Moving to Illinois

Illinois offers a blend of opportunity, culture, and comfort for those willing to navigate its challenges. With strong career options, diverse education, lively communities, and access to both urban and rural lifestyles, Illinois continues to attract people looking for their next chapter. Planning for housing, taxes, and winter weather can make your move smoother and more rewarding.

Need to Ship Your Car to Illinois?

AmeriFreight Car Shipping provides reliable, affordable service to help make your move easier. Whether you're relocating to Chicago or a small Midwestern town, we offer dependable door-to-door vehicle shipping tailored to your schedule.

Get a free quote today and take the stress out of your move with AmeriFreight.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is moving to Illinois financially savvy?

It can be, depending on where you live and work. Urban areas offer high salaries but higher living costs, while rural areas are more affordable.

What are the downsides of moving to Illinois? 

High property taxes, cold winters, and traffic congestion in Chicago are common complaints.

What industries are strong in Illinois?

Major employment sectors include healthcare, finance, agriculture, education, technology, and logistics.

Is healthcare good in Illinois?

Yes. Illinois offers strong healthcare systems, especially in cities and suburbs.

How can I prepare for winter in Illinois?

Invest in warm clothing, snow removal tools, insulated windows, and snow tires for your car.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only. Always conduct your research or consult with local professionals when making relocation decisions.