7 Best Places to Live in Illinois in 2025 (Top Cities & Suburbs)

Imagine this: You’re sipping your overpriced campus coffee, mid-scroll through apartment listings, and it hits you - Where do people actually live in Illinois when they’re not stuck in a dorm or renting a shoebox in downtown Chicago? 

Turns out, there’s way more to Illinois than you’ve seen on your way to Lollapalooza. From leafy, low-key suburbs where Wi-Fi is strong and rents don’t make you cry, to cities where career dreams and indie coffee shops thrive side by side, the best places to live in Illinois go way beyond what you’ll find on popular media. 

If you're working with a budget, there are plenty of affordable places to live in Illinois that still offer a great quality of life and amenities. And according to recent reports, many of the best places to live in Illinois also have lower-than-average crime rates and growing local economies! That’s a win-win guys.

So whether you're graduating soon, starting a remote job, or just dreaming about your post-college glow-up, this guide’s for you. Let’s unpack the safest, smartest, and most affordable places to live in Illinois, no boring rankings, just real talk.

Naperville, Illinois

Naperville is one of the best cities in Illinois to live in if you want a family-friendly city with schools and a strong sense of community. Downtown Naperville, East Highlands, and Cress Creek are some of the best areas to live in Illinois, as they have ample parks and local shops. The downtown area is lively with plenty of dining and entertainment options for families and young professionals alike.

If your situation requires you to be a student or academic, nearby Northern Illinois University and Wheaton College appeal to individuals with similar interests. The cost of living here is slightly higher than the average cost of living in Chicago, but the safety, amenities, and quality of life easily justify it. Whether it’s the tech opportunities in Naperville or the college-town feel of Champaign, the best places to live in Illinois each bring something unique to the table.

Note: Many of the best places to live in Illinois, including Wheaton and Arlington Heights, have crime rates 30% lower than the national average and median home prices under $450,000!

Quick fact: The name Illinois comes from the Native American tribe living on the land when the area was first explored by Europeans.

Evanston, Illinois

Evanston is one of those delightful little cities that provides the hustle & bustle of a city along with a great, safe, and inviting community, making it one of the best places to live in Illinois (IL) for students & professionals alike. Good neighborhoods to check out are Central Street, Downtown Evanston, and West Village, with nice atmosphere and lovely views of the lakefront. Evanston is not just safe; it is also lively & enriched with culture.

Evanston is the home of Northwestern University. Evanston has a great academic and social experience with people from all around. Although living in Evanston does come with a higher price tag to live there; it is often worth it when you consider how safe it is and all of the opportunity. So, if you're looking to live in some of the safest neighborhoods in Illinois with the perks of a larger city, this one stands out.

‍Fun fact: Illinois is the largest producer of pumpkins in the country.

Hinsdale, Illinois

Safety is a top priority for many, and thankfully, there are several safest places to live in Illinois that consistently rank well for low crime and strong community ties.

Hinsdale is one of the safe neighborhoods in Illinois, demonstrating upscale charm and quiet, suburban living. If you are looking for a safe place to live in Illinois with magnificent houses and highly-rated schools, the neighborhoods of Southeast Hinsdale, The Woodlands, and Fullersburg certainly won't disappoint. The community is tight-knit and family-friendly with many parks and community events. 

While living costs are higher than average, Hinsdale provides a top-notch quality of life for those wanting a quieter, yet luxurious lifestyle. If safety is a priority and you want to live in an exclusive place, Hinsdale is definitely one of the best places to live in Illinois.

Quick fact: Famous folks from Illinois include Hillary Clinton, U.S. representative and civil rights activist Carol Moseley Braun, First Lady Michelle Obama, and women’s rights activist Betty Friedan.

Champaign, Illinois

With over 50 parks, access to top universities, and a cost of living below the national average, Champaign is gaining traction as one of the best places to live in Illinois for students and young professionals.

Finalists include the City of Champaign, because it is great for college students and those looking for an affordable place to live in Illinois. Champaign is meant for singles and students because of its vibrant, college-town atmosphere. The best neighborhoods in Champaign include areas like Old Town, Clark Park, and Ironwood, where housing is affordable and the residents create a cooperative environment. The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is also located in Champaign, allowing for diversity and liveliness in the community. Whether you're after top-rated schools, walkable neighborhoods, or cultural hotspots, the best areas to live in Illinois check all the right boxes.

Champaign is ahead of the game when it comes to a low cost of living. The cost of living in Champaign was below the national average throughout 2020. Champaign is certainly one of the best areas to discover but for those in search of affordable, safe neighborhoods in Illinois(IL), Champaign is certainly not to be overlooked. Next time you think about moving, especially if you are a student or with a family, consider the City of Champaign for exploring living options and possibilities. Champaign is definitely family-friendly or student-friendly wherever you fall in life, you can't go wrong living in Champaign with the endless supply of cultural and outdoor activities.

Quick fact: Illinois produces more nuclear energy than any other state in the country. 

Geneva, Illinois

Geneva is a lovely small-town option that shows up on best places to live in Illinois lists for anyone seeking safety and community. Neighborhoods like Downtown Geneva, Randall Square, and Eagle Brook provide beautiful tree-lined streets and locally owned shops that offer a hospitable feeling. It is a great place for families and retirees seeking peaceful, safe neighborhoods in Illinois.

Geneva's cost of living is somewhat higher than the national average, but excellent schools and family-friendly and acceptable amenities make it worth the cost. If you are looking for an affordable, safe place to live in Illinois with a small-town feel and strong community amenities, Geneva should make the shortlist.

Oak Park, Illinois

If you'll locate near Chicago in a safe and diverse community, Oak Park is one of the best places to live in Illinois for you.  Oak Park features historically charming neighborhoods, such as the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District, Ridgeland, and Hemingway District, all while integrating modern comforts.  This suburb is established to be safe, and welcoming, which is perfect for families and working professionals.

The cost of living is slightly higher than average, but the wonderful community and easy access to all things Chicago make this a reasonable option. Oak Park is for sure a safe place to live in Illinois, while still being rich in character and convenience.

Student Apartments In Illinois

So, what’s the move? You could stay where you are, but now you know there’s a whole map of amazing places to live in Illinois(IL) waiting for you, from Naperville’s polished charm to Champaign’s budget-friendly college vibes. And even the recent census and livability data show that the best places to live in Illinois often have strong healthcare systems, vibrant downtowns, and diverse housing options.

Think of this as your Illinois starter pack: safer neighborhoods, better rent, walkable streets, and a lifestyle that actually fits your rhythm, whether that means cozy bookstores or late-night taco trucks. Choosing where to live isn’t just about ZIP codes, it’s about finding your people, your pace, your kind of quiet or chaos.

From college towns to smaller suburbs, amber offers you these affordable places to live in Illinois which are perfect for students, young professionals, and families alike. Whatever your vibe—suburban peace, city energy, or a little bit of both, living in Illinois has options that check more boxes than you thought. So take the leap, start the search, and don’t just live somewhere... live well.

Wait! 

Are you also looking for affordable places to live in Illinois near your university? 

Areas like Normal, Carbondale, and parts of Springfield offer lower rent, chill vibes, and everything you’d need, from Wi-Fi-friendly cafés to quiet libraries. Cities like Champaign and Evanston consistently show up on lists of the best places to live in Illinois, especially for students. They offer easy access to public transport, great food spots, and a strong student community.