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Living in Illinois: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Illinois | Expat Exchange
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Living in Illinois

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 11, 2023

Summary: People describe life in Illinois as diverse, vibrant, and full of opportunity. People love the variety of activities available, from the bustling city life of Chicago to the rural beauty of the state's many small towns. The cost of living in Illinois is slightly higher than the national average, but it is still considered affordable. The approximate population of Illinois is 12.7 million, and the largest cities are Chicago, Aurora, Rockford, Joliet, and Naperville. The cons of living in Illinois include high taxes, a high cost of living, and a high crime rate in some areas. Additionally, the weather can be extreme, with hot summers and cold winters.

Is the cost of living in Illinois high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Illinois, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Illinois is generally considered to be above the national average. Rents can vary widely depending on where in the state you live, but for a standard, nice 1 bedroom apartment, you can expect to pay around $1,000 to $1,200 per month. A nice 2 bedroom apartment in Illinois can cost around $1,500 per month on average. To dine at a moderately priced restaurant in Illinois, you should anticipate spending between $25 and $40 for two people," mentioned one expat inIllinois.

What type of recreational facilities are in Illinois?

When we asked people living in Illinois about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Illinois, residents can enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as parks, golf courses, beaches, and trails. Parks offer a variety of activities, such as playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. Golf courses provide a great way to enjoy the outdoors and practice your swing. Beaches provide a great way to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. Trails offer a great way to explore the outdoors and get some exercise. In addition, Illinois has a variety of museums, zoos, and aquariums that offer educational and entertaining experiences," mentioned one expat inIllinois.

What is the weather like in Illinois?

"The weather in Illinois can vary greatly depending on the season. In the summer, temperatures can reach the high 80s and 90s with high humidity. In the winter, temperatures can drop to below freezing with snow and ice storms. Spring and fall are usually mild with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-70s," remarked one expat living in Illinois.

Are there good restaurants in Illinois?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Illinois is Alinea, located in Chicago. Alinea is a three-Michelin-starred restaurant that serves modernist cuisine. The restaurant has been praised for its creative and innovative dishes, and its unique atmosphere. Another popular restaurant in Illinois is Girl & the Goat, also located in Chicago. Girl & the Goat is a modern American restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, from small plates to entrees. The restaurant has been praised for its unique flavors and its use of local ingredients. Finally, another popular restaurant in Illinois is The Publican, located in Chicago. The Publican is a seafood-focused restaurant that serves a variety of dishes, from small plates to entrees. The restaurant has been praised for its fresh seafood and its unique atmosphere," remarked one expat in Illinois.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Illinois?

"People living in Illinois typically buy groceries from supermarkets, grocery stores, and farmers markets. Other shopping can be done at department stores, malls, and specialty stores. Online shopping is also popular in Illinois, with many people taking advantage of the convenience of ordering items from the comfort of their own homes," remarked one expat in Illinois.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Illinois?

"To visit or stay for an extended period in Illinois, visitors must apply for a visa or a green card, depending on the purpose of their visit. To apply for a visa, applicants must fill out a form with their passport details and flight itinerary. They must also a bring a letter of invitation from a U.S. citizen, a filing fee, several passport-style photographs, and any other documents required by the specific visa category. To apply for residency in Illinois, applicants must fill out an application for permanent residence, provide evidence of legal admission to the United States, and send in all of the required supporting documents. Applicants must also submit biometric data, such as fingerprints and a photograph, to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Applicants may also have to attend an interview and take a medical examination before residency is granted," commented one expat who moved to Illinois.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Illinois?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Illinois can be expensive. The cost of healthcare services, such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and prescription drugs, can be high. Health insurance premiums can also be costly, depending on the type of plan and the coverage offered. Additionally, many people in Illinois are subject to high out-of-pocket costs, such as deductibles and copayments, which can add to the overall expense of healthcare," mentioned an expat living in Illinois.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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