10 Best Places To Live In Illinois In 2025

Most people moving into Illinois tend to settle in Chicago, which explains why the bustling city harbors almost a quarter of the state’s population. However, there are a couple of downsides to the Windy City. The crime rate is at a record high, and the same is true for the cost of living. Not to mention that the constant hustle and bustle in its overcrowded streets can be overwhelming for some.

Taking up residence in the small towns of the Prairie saves you all the trouble while rewarding you with laid-back neighbors with a strong sense of community. Furthermore, there is unlimited access to outdoor opportunities and vital health and social amenities. So, if you plan to make the Land of Lincoln your new home, consider the following as the best places to live in Illinois in 2025.

La Salle

La Salle is a tight-knit community in the Illinois Valley, steeped in history and home to friendly residents. The town traces its roots to the mid-19th century when it was founded and harbors a few historical markers from its early days. This includes the Hegeler Carus Mansion, a Victorian-era dwelling with distinct furnishings and artifacts from the 1800s. La Salle residents spend their time outdoors on hikes along the Illinois-Michigan Canal State Trail. The pathway is perfect for soaking in the natural scenery and isolating yourself from the downtown crowds.

However, those who just want to sit back and relax head to the Rotary Park for unassuming picnics on its quiet grounds. The town is a little over an hour from Naperville, allowing quick access to the big city’s superior health, social, and recreational amenities. Meanwhile, the median home price here is $131,000.

Mendota

If you don’t want to deal with a chaotic scene in the Windy City, Mendota offers a quiet alternative not far from the metro area. This quaint municipality in La Salle County offers plush natural spaces where residents can revel in the outdoors. The peaceful setting of Mendota Lake Park makes it a hub for families in the town, offering playgrounds, ballparks, a skate park, and access to two lakes. Mendota’s captivating heritage remains preserved at the Mendota Museum, with diverse exhibits telling its story since its founding.

The annual Mendota Sweet Corn Festival presents an excellent opportunity for townsfolk to interact in an exuberant atmosphere, fostering a robust sense of community. Investing in a beautiful home in Mendota costs around $145,000.

Macomb

Macomb promises a safe environment, rich arts and culture, and a high-quality education system for those who settle here. This quaint town is home to Western Illinois University, which provides accredited higher education and employs many residents. Macomb preserves its colorful heritage at the Western Illinois Museum through a vast collection of over 6,000 artifacts that chronologically spell out the community’s history and culture. Stepping outside will lead you to Spring Lake Park and Campground, a 230-acre oasis with walking trails, biking paths, campsites, and a delightful fishing lake.

Since opening its doors to the public in 1958, McDonough District Hospital has improved access to quality medical services in Macomb and the western Illinois region. Finally, a decent home costs around $89,000 in Macomb, making it among the most affordable places to live in Illinois in 2025.

Taylorville

This adorable village of Christian County charms potential residents with a welcoming attitude and rich rural atmosphere, making it easy for newcomers to adapt to their new situation. Its cozy open spaces provide access to the calm waters of Lake Taylorville, which fuels fun aquatic adventures like paddling, boating, and fishing. The indoor inclined feel comfortable exploring Taylorville’s past inside the Christian County Historical Society and Museum. Stored inside is a stockpile of archives, manuscripts, and documents showcasing military, cultural, and historical heritage.

With Springfield situated less than an hour from Taylorville, movers can expect easy access to the superior social and health amenities available in the state capital. Finally, the average cost of homes in the region is about $170,000, below the United States average.

Freeport

Dubbed “Pretzel City,” this vibrant community of Stephenson County stands out for its unique German roots and close-knit bonds between the townspeople. It hosts the annual Pretzel Festival, celebrating the sustained tradition that brings people together through good food and family-friendly entertainment. The Winneshiek Playhouse is a vital cultural venue and gathering spot in Freeport, known to host amateur plays and musicals that showcase budding local talent.

Outdoor adventures are readily available at the sprawling Oakdale Nature Preserve. Spanning over 130 acres, this wooded park harbors winding nature trails that invite hikers and bikers to discover the great outdoors. The local median housing cost is $130,000 for those contemplating buying a home.

Gilman

Small-town charm reigns supreme in this tiny village of Iroquois County, where everybody seems to know all the faces they meet. Known for its friendliness, Gilman makes newcomers feel at home as they mingle with other residents in the welcoming setting of Parkside Farm Stand. This family-friendly escape invites locals to have fun with pumpkins through photo ops and other activities. The downtown corridor houses quaint, locally owned businesses, with many residents popping into Crossroads Cantina for a hearty meal whenever they need to replenish.

The older adult demographic benefits from essential programs by the Gilman Senior Center designed to enhance their welfare, demonstrating the town’s commitment to caring for its citizens. Finally, the average home price in Gilman is $174,900.

Olney

Olney stands out for its thriving population of white squirrels, which makes visitors fall in love with the town and contemplate making it their home. The area boasts idyllic green spaces for those who enjoy being outside, including the 55-acre Olney City Park. This is a lovely spot to relax and watch the town’s famous little residents run and play around. Townsfolk enjoy gathering at the Musgrove Aquatic Center for fun in the water. The center is a social hub that unites the young and the old, resulting in amicable and warm interactions.

Olney also offers a handful of health institutions to handle medical emergencies concerning residents. This includes Carle Richland Memorial Hospital, which serves much of the surrounding region. Investing in a home here requires a budget of approximately $125,000.

Palos Hills

This southwestern suburb of Chicago ensures its residents remain comfortable in a cozy small-town setting while providing ready access to all the urban conveniences in Illinois’ biggest city. Palos Hills’ rural vibes manifest through lush nature areas like Michael Park, a serene space tailored for relaxing and unwinding. Citizens can also practice their swing on the manicured fairways and greens of Palos Hills Golf Course, whose nine holes challenge beginners and seasoned golfers alike.

Additionally, the town enjoys a highly rated education system, highlighted by the presence of the Moraine Valley Community College. Lastly, the average home in Palos Hills is valued at $278,000, below the Illinois average.

Millstadt

Millstadt is a charismatic small town in St. Clair County with a curious German heritage and a down-to-earth personality. The townsfolk share an identity resulting in a strong sense of community, often on display at the Millstadt Community Center. Here, children, teenagers, adults, and older adults meet in a welcoming environment to socialize and participate in fun events. Millstadt’s German traditions show in its craft beer culture, with Millpond Brewing crafting different varieties of ales and lagers.

Those who want to head outdoors do so with a hike along Pine Street Nature Trail, which meanders about half a mile through a serene section of green woods. A home in Millstadt costs an average of about $294,000.

Tuscola

This adorable rural community on the northern edge of Illinois Amish Country charms new residents with a slow-paced lifestyle and takes pride in amiable human connections. The quiet grounds of Ervin Park best embody its overall serenity. This pleasant site is filled with recreational amenities for all ages, helping to keep the townspeople active and entertained. Tuscola’s artistic side comes to life at the Vault Art Gallery. More than 40 galleries from central Illinois showcase their works in this quaint venue, ranging from jewelry and paintings to ceramics and photography art.

Meanwhile, the Douglas County Museum reminds the community of its origins by displaying various artifacts covering a wide range of topics. Those contemplating a home investment can expect to pay around $255,000 for a decent property.

Final Thought

Relocating to a new area requires adequate due diligence to ensure you end up in a better situation than your previous one. Whether you are a retiree seeking a lovely community that offers peace for your sunset years or a young professional focused on a vibrant suburb that promises career opportunities, the best places to live in Illinois in 2025 promise all that and then some. Their cozy natural settings and hospitable neighbors go a long way to improving your overall quality of life.