Largest cities in Illinois

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: 2,699,347 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 589 KM² Density (sq mi): 11,853 Med. Household Income: $62,097

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: 199,326 Livability Score: 71

Area Size: 116 KM² Density (sq mi): 4,433 Med. Household Income: $74,659

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.

Naperville Population: 147,734 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 100 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,779 Med. Household Income: $127,648

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: 147,441 Livability Score: 61

Area Size: 167 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,272 Med. Household Income: $44,771

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.

Joliet Population: 147,323 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 165 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,264 Med. Household Income: $72,871

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.

Springfield Population: 115,075 Livability Score: 81

Area Size: 156 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,880 Med. Household Income: $54,164

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.

Peoria Population: 112,644 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 125 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,348 Med. Household Income: $51,736

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.

Elgin Population: 112,062 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 97 KM² Density (sq mi): 2,947 Med. Household Income: $72,999

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.

Champaign Population: 88,288 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 59 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,840 Med. Household Income: $49,467

Champaign, IL - The Hub of Central Illinois"; echo "

Waukegan Population: 87,157 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 63 KM² Density (sq mi): 3,597 Med. Household Income: $53,778

Waukegan, IL - The Art and Soul of Lake County"; echo "

Full list of the largest cities in Illinois

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Chicago	2,699,347	589	$62,097	78
2	Aurora	199,326	116	$74,659	71
3	Naperville	147,734	100	$127,648	83
4	Rockford	147,441	167	$44,771	61
5	Joliet	147,323	165	$72,871	76
6	Springfield	115,075	156	$54,164	81
7	Peoria	112,644	125	$51,736	73
8	Elgin	112,062	97	$72,999	82
9	Champaign	88,288	59	$49,467	83
10	Waukegan	87,157	63	$53,778	73
11	Cicero	81,471	15	$53,726	81
12	Bloomington	77,725	70	$66,861	76
13	Arlington Heights	75,071	43	$100,221	80
14	Bolingbrook	74,319	64	$92,184	74
15	Evanston	73,979	20	$82,335	84
16	Schaumburg	73,392	50	$82,387	78
17	Decatur	71,857	110	$45,404	58
18	Palatine	67,875	35	$83,495	79
19	Skokie	63,300	26	$74,725	81
20	Orland Park	58,380	57	$84,676	81
21	Des Plaines	58,316	37	$73,639	81
22	Tinley Park	56,082	42	$82,163	73
23	Oak Lawn	55,432	22	$69,352	79
24	Berwyn	54,850	10	$61,915	82
25	Normal	54,699	48	$58,381	86
26	Mount Prospect	54,165	27	$84,353	84
27	Wheaton	53,157	29	$105,764	84
28	Oak Park	52,102	12	$96,945	83
29	Hoffman Estates	50,464	54	$92,423	75
30	Downers Grove	49,263	38	$97,197	84
31	Glenview	47,218	36	$118,019	78
32	Elmhurst	46,571	27	$123,869	85
33	Plainfield	44,857	63	$131,241	66
34	Lombard	43,755	27	$86,167	70
35	DeKalb	42,961	42	$44,223	76
36	Urbana	42,461	31	$35,984	81
37	Belleville	41,256	60	$52,843	79
38	Moline	41,213	43	$57,475	75
39	Bartlett	40,894	41	$109,980	77
40	Buffalo Grove	40,804	25	$117,921	76
41	Quincy	40,111	41	$46,935	68
42	Streamwood	39,917	20	$88,917	76
43	Crystal Lake	39,685	49	$91,456	80
44	Romeoville	39,644	49	$85,888	72
45	Carol Stream	39,447	24	$89,820	76
46	Wheeling	38,684	22	$71,966	69
47	Hanover Park	37,811	16	$77,367	73
48	Rock Island	37,651	44	$48,120	73
49	Carpentersville	37,618	20	$73,105	62
50	Park Ridge	37,431	18	$113,809	86

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

Well Below nat. avg.
Below nat. avg.
Similar to nat. avg.
Above nat. avg.
Well above nat. avg.

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.