Cheapest Places to Live in Illinois
Illinois, also known as the Land of Lincoln, offers a mix of urban excitement, suburban comfort, and rural charm. While Chicago is one of the most expensive cities in the U.S., many areas in Illinois offer affordable housing, lower taxes, and a good quality of life.
Cost of Living in Illinois
Illinois has a cost of living slightly below the national average, making it an attractive place for families, retirees, and remote workers.
| Cost of Living | Illinois | United States |
|---|---|---|
| Overall | 93.4 | 100 |
| Grocery | 95.5 | 100 |
| Housing | 79.5 | 100 |
| Median Home Cost | $220,500 | $291,700 |
| Utilities | 97.7 | 100 |
| Transportation | 106.2 | 100 |
| Miscellaneous | 96.0 | 100 |
Most Affordable Places to Live in Illinois
- Pekin – Low cost of housing, strong job market, and a safe environment.
- Decatur – Affordable homes and a growing economy.
- Danville – One of the cheapest places in Illinois, with low home prices.
- Rockford – A larger city with reasonable living costs and plenty of amenities.
- Champaign-Urbana – A university town with affordable housing and good job opportunities.
Insurance in Illinois
Illinois provides various insurance options, including health, auto, homeowners, and life insurance. The cost of insurance in Illinois varies based on location, lifestyle, and provider.
Health Insurance in Illinois
Illinois residents can get health insurance through:
- Employer-sponsored plans
- The Illinois state marketplace (Get Covered Illinois)
- Medicaid (for low-income residents)
Illinois Medicaid, called HealthChoice Illinois, provides free or low-cost coverage for eligible residents.
For details, visit Get Covered Illinois.
Auto Insurance in Illinois
Illinois law requires minimum auto insurance coverage:
- $25,000 per person for bodily injury liability
- $50,000 per accident for bodily injury liability
- $20,000 for property damage liability
Illinois drivers pay lower-than-average auto insurance rates, but costs can vary by city.
Top providers include State Farm, Progressive, and Allstate.
For more details, visit Illinois Department of Insurance.
Homeowners and Renters Insurance in Illinois
Illinois faces risks from tornadoes, floods, and winter storms, making home insurance essential.
Top insurance providers include:
- Farmers Insurance
- State Farm
- Allstate
Flood-prone areas can get coverage through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
For more information, visit FEMA’s NFIP.
Life Insurance in Illinois
Illinois residents can choose between:
- Term Life Insurance – Covers a set period (e.g., 10–30 years).
- Permanent Life Insurance – Offers lifetime coverage with cash value.
Top life insurance providers in Illinois include New York Life, Prudential, and Northwestern Mutual.
Senior Healthcare Facilities in Illinois
Illinois has high-quality senior healthcare facilities, making it a good place to retire.
Types of Senior Care Facilities in Illinois
- Assisted Living Facilities – For seniors needing help with daily activities. Top facilities include The Admiral at the Lake in Chicago and Brookdale Lisle.
- Nursing Homes – Provide 24/7 medical care for elderly residents with serious health conditions. Highly rated options include Warren Barr Gold Coast and The Pearl of Rolling Meadows.
- Memory Care Facilities – Specialized for Alzheimer’s and dementia patients. Top-rated facilities include Arden Courts of Glen Ellyn and Sunrise of Lincoln Park.
- Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs) – Provide independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing in one location. Examples include Vi at The Glen and Westminster Place.
Choosing the Right Senior Care Facility
When selecting a senior facility, consider:
- Medical services offered
- Cost and available financial assistance
- Location and accessibility
For senior care services, visit Illinois Department on Aging.
Conclusion
Illinois is a diverse and affordable state with low housing costs, reasonable insurance rates, and quality senior care. Whether you’re looking for low-cost housing, insurance plans, or senior healthcare, Illinois offers various options for individuals and families.