Why moving to Illinois: Diverse job opportunities statewide. Rich cultural and historical heritage. Strong educational institutions available. Affordable cost of living options. Varied recreational outdoor activities offered. Home to world-class arts scene. Numerous professional sports teams. Central location with good transportation. Thriving agricultural industry. Active community and social organizations.
Diverse job opportunities statewide.
Moving to Illinois offers diverse job opportunities across various public service sectors, including Public Safety, Human Services, Healthcare, Public Health, Natural Resources, and more, providing career growth potential and a chance to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Explore these opportunities at Work4Illinois to find a fulfilling career path that aligns with your skills and interests.
Rich cultural and historical heritage.
Illinois offers a rich cultural and historical heritage, with towns like Galena, Cahokia, and others preserving significant historical landmarks, cultural sites, and festivals that reflect the state's diverse ethnic communities and storied past. These towns are highlighted on the World Atlas website, making it an ideal destination for those interested in history and culture.
Strong educational institutions available.
Illinois offers strong educational institutions through initiatives like the Race to the Top program, which supports participating districts in building systems to accelerate and sustain improved student outcomes, preparing students for success in college, career, and life. Additionally, the state's higher education system, including the Illinois Innovation Network, focuses on providing future-ready learning opportunities and addressing workforce needs through regional partnerships and innovative programs.
Affordable cost of living options.
Moving to Illinois offers an affordable cost of living, with the state's overall cost of living 8% lower than the national average, featuring housing costs 22% lower, utilities 10% lower, and lower expenses for food, healthcare, and goods & services. Additionally, cities like Decatur and Granite City have median home prices significantly below the national average, making them some of the cheapest places to live in the state. For a detailed breakdown of these costs, the RentCafe Cost of Living Calculator can provide comprehensive insights into how Illinois compares to other states.
Varied recreational outdoor activities offered.
Illinois offers a diverse range of outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, boating, fishing, bird watching, and golf, with notable destinations such as Illinois Beach State Park, Chain O' Lakes State Park, and the extensive Lake County Forest Preserves. From scenic treks and waterfalls to lakes and state parks, Illinois provides numerous opportunities for outdoor adventures across its varied landscapes. For a comprehensive guide to these activities, you can explore the Lake County Outdoor Guide, which details the wealth of options available for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.
Home to world-class arts scene.
Illinois, particularly Chicago, is home to a world-class arts scene, featuring renowned institutions like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA Chicago), and a vibrant gallery scene that supports emerging and international artists, as well as a rich cultural heritage through various ethnic and historical museums.
Numerous professional sports teams.
Moving to Illinois offers the opportunity to enjoy a rich sports culture with numerous professional teams, including the Chicago Cubs, White Sox, Bulls, Sky, Bears, Blackhawks, Fire FC, Red Stars, and the newly established Chicago Hounds, providing a diverse range of sports experiences across baseball, basketball, football, hockey, rugby, and soccer.
Central location with good transportation.
Illinois's central location makes it a transportation hub, providing access to the entire North American market within a four-hour flight, with extensive networks of highways, interstates, Class I railroads, and major ports. The state boasts the fifth busiest port in the U.S. and the renowned O'Hare International Airport, which together facilitate the robust movement of goods and people.
Thriving agricultural industry.
Illinois boasts a thriving agricultural industry, producing over $26.4 billion in agricultural products in 2022. The state leads the nation in soybean production and ranks high in corn, hogs, and other commodities, supporting a significant portion of the state's economy and employment. For more detailed insights, check out the Top Illinois Agriculture Facts on FarmFlavor.
Active community and social organizations.
Moving to Illinois offers a vibrant and active community with numerous social organizations, including a wide range of volunteer opportunities in areas such as arts and culture, human services, elderly care, environment and animal welfare, health and wellness, hunger/homelessness, and youth support, ensuring there is something for every interest and commitment level. For more information, students can explore the various opportunities available through the Civic Engagement at Illinois State, where they can find the perfect fit for their interests and dedication to making a difference.