Largest cities in Illinois

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Illinois, known for its vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage, is a state that offers a diverse range of living experiences. With a population of approximately 12.7 million, it ranks as the 6th most populated state in the U.S. Illinois has seen stable population growth, driven by its robust economy and high quality of life. Bordered by Wisconsin to the north, Iowa and Missouri to the west, Kentucky to the south, and Indiana to the east, Illinois offers a variety of urban and rural living environments across its roughly 1,300 cities and towns.

Living in Illinois provides numerous benefits, including access to world-class education, a strong job market, and a rich cultural scene. The state's high population density in major urban areas creates a dynamic and energetic atmosphere, while its rural areas offer tranquility and space. Illinois's economy is diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, agriculture, and finance. The state's stable population growth supports a robust and sustainable development path. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Illinois, is compiled using data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, highlights Illinois cities by population, showcasing the state's most populous and influential urban centers.

Chicago Population: 2,804,582 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 589 KM² Density (sq mi): 12,337 Med. Household Income: $92,078

Living in Chicago, IL, known as 'The Windy City,' combines a rich cultural heritage with modern amenities, making it an attractive place to call home. Located in northeastern Illinois on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is a large city known for its impressive skyline and vibrant neighborhoods. Major nearby cities like Milwaukee and Indianapolis enhance its status as a central hub in the Midwest. Chicago's blend of historic charm and contemporary innovation creates a unique urban experience.

Aurora Population: 206,020 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 116 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,590 Med. Household Income: $109,454

Aurora, IL, known as "The City of Lights," is famous for its historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. Located in the western suburbs of Chicago, Aurora is approximately 40 miles west of downtown Chicago and 20 miles east of DeKalb. This medium-sized city offers a blend of urban amenities and suburban charm, making it a great place to live.

Joliet Population: 152,137 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 165 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,386 Med. Household Income: $110,204

Joliet, IL, known as 'City of Steel,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in Will and Kendall counties, Joliet is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Chicago (40 miles) and Aurora (20 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Joliet's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Naperville Population: 151,582 Livability Score: 85

Area Size: 100 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,918 Med. Household Income: $193,565

Naperville, IL, known as 'The Golden City,' offers a unique blend of suburban tranquility and modern urban amenities. Located in DuPage and Will counties, Naperville is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Chicago (28 miles) and Aurora (10 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Naperville's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Rockford Population: 151,169 Livability Score: 62

Area Size: 167 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,348 Med. Household Income: $66,354

Rockford, IL, known as 'The Forest City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Winnebago County, Rockford is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Chicago (90 miles) and Madison (75 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Rockford's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Springfield Population: 117,426 Livability Score: 79

Area Size: 156 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,949 Med. Household Income: $81,200

Springfield, Illinois, known as "The Land of Lincoln," is the state capital and a city rich in history and culture. With its significant historical landmarks, vibrant arts scene, and strong sense of community, Springfield offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Springfield an attractive option.

Elgin Population: 115,336 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 97 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,070 Med. Household Income: $109,630

Elgin, Illinois, known as "The City in the Suburbs," is a historic and vibrant community located along the Fox River. With its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and strong economy, Elgin offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of suburban charm and urban amenities makes living in Elgin an attractive option for families and professionals.

Peoria Population: 115,301 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 125 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,393 Med. Household Income: $77,104

Peoria, Illinois, known as "The River City," is a historic and vibrant community located along the Illinois River. With its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and strong economy, Peoria offers a high quality of life for its residents. The city's blend of historic charm and modern amenities makes living in Peoria an attractive option.

Champaign Population: 90,911 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,986 Med. Household Income: $72,910

Living in Champaign, IL offers a vibrant blend of urban amenities and Midwestern charm. Known as the 'Hub of Central Illinois,' Champaign is home to the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, which brings a youthful energy and diverse cultural scene to the city. The universityâ€™s Krannert Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural gem, offering a wide array of performances, from theater and dance to world-class music concerts.

Waukegan Population: 90,063 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 63 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,713 Med. Household Income: $78,659

Living in Waukegan, IL offers a rich cultural experience with a strong connection to the arts and the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. Known as the 'Art and Soul of Lake County,' Waukegan is home to a vibrant arts community and a historic downtown area. The Genesee Theatre, a beautifully restored venue, hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances, making it a cultural centerpiece of the city.

Full list of the largest cities in Illinois

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Chicago	2,804,582	589	$92,078	78
2	Aurora	206,020	116	$109,454	75
3	Joliet	152,137	165	$110,204	78
4	Naperville	151,582	100	$193,565	85
5	Rockford	151,169	167	$66,354	62
6	Springfield	117,426	156	$81,200	79
7	Elgin	115,336	97	$109,630	83
8	Peoria	115,301	125	$77,104	73
9	Champaign	90,911	59	$72,910	83
10	Waukegan	90,063	63	$78,659	75
11	Cicero	84,320	15	$80,278	82
12	Bloomington	79,438	70	$97,788	77
13	Arlington Heights	77,990	43	$151,218	82
14	Schaumburg	76,160	50	$124,002	79
15	Bolingbrook	76,035	64	$136,067	76
16	Evanston	75,477	20	$124,314	85
17	Decatur	74,163	110	$68,944	59
18	Palatine	70,310	35	$123,796	81
19	Skokie	65,008	26	$113,252	82
20	Orland Park	60,161	57	$128,588	85
21	Des Plaines	60,159	37	$111,566	83
22	Tinley Park	57,746	42	$122,827	74
23	Oak Lawn	57,180	22	$104,856	80
24	Berwyn	56,642	10	$91,432	83
25	Mount Prospect	55,996	27	$123,286	84
26	Normal	55,834	48	$87,049	86
27	Wheaton	54,594	29	$158,171	86
28	Oak Park	53,295	12	$145,438	84
29	Hoffman Estates	52,201	54	$137,278	76
30	Downers Grove	50,391	38	$144,374	86
31	Glenview	49,038	36	$175,862	78
32	Elmhurst	48,413	27	$184,404	87
33	Plainfield	45,974	63	$198,573	67
34	Lombard	45,226	27	$130,240	72
35	DeKalb	44,075	42	$66,859	77
36	Urbana	43,747	31	$53,590	80
37	Moline	42,715	43	$85,094	76
38	Belleville	42,499	60	$80,172	78
39	Bartlett	42,167	41	$161,674	80
40	Buffalo Grove	41,884	25	$173,397	77
41	Streamwood	41,397	20	$130,562	78
42	Romeoville	41,178	49	$127,466	74
43	Quincy	41,163	41	$69,000	67
44	Crystal Lake	40,724	49	$136,941	82
45	Carol Stream	40,500	24	$132,302	80
46	Wheeling	39,851	22	$107,370	71
47	Park Ridge	38,854	18	$169,426	88
48	Hanover Park	38,780	16	$116,499	78
49	Rock Island	38,640	44	$70,469	73
50	Carpentersville	38,383	20	$109,560	67

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Illinois, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.