Every year, U.S. News & World Report releases its highly anticipated ranking of the best states in America, evaluating factors like economy, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and quality of life. In the latest report, Illinois secured a mid-tier position, reflecting both its strengths and areas needing improvement.
So, where does Illinois stand compared to other states? What are its strongest attributes, and what challenges does it face? Let’s break down the rankings and explore what makes Illinois a unique place to live, work, and visit.
Illinois’ Overall Ranking in 2024
In the 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings, Illinois landed at #32 out of 50, placing it in the middle of the pack. While not among the top-tier states like Utah (#1), Washington (#2), or Minnesota (#5), Illinois outperformed several neighboring states, including Indiana (#34) and Missouri (#37).
The ranking is based on eight key categories:
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Healthcare
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Education
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Economy
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Infrastructure
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Opportunity
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Fiscal Stability
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Crime & Corrections
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Natural Environment
Let’s dive deeper into Illinois’ performance in these areas.
Where Illinois Excels
1. Education (#18)
Illinois boasts a strong education system, ranking in the top 20. The state is home to world-class universities, including the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago. Public K-12 schools also perform well, particularly in affluent suburbs like Naperville and Evanston.
However, disparities exist between urban and rural school districts, with Chicago Public Schools facing funding and performance challenges.
2. Infrastructure (#20)
Illinois benefits from a centralized transportation network, with O’Hare International Airport being one of the busiest in the world. The state’s highways, railroads, and public transit systems (like Chicago’s CTA and Metra) contribute to its solid infrastructure ranking.
Yet, aging roads and bridges remain a concern, with ongoing investments needed to maintain and modernize them.
3. Healthcare (#24)
Illinois has top-tier hospitals, including Rush University Medical Center and Northwestern Memorial Hospital. Access to healthcare is relatively good, though rural areas face shortages of medical professionals.
The state’s Medicaid program provides coverage for low-income residents, but rising healthcare costs remain a challenge.
Where Illinois Falls Short
1. Fiscal Stability (#48)
One of Illinois’ biggest weaknesses is its financial health. The state ranks near the bottom due to pension liabilities, budget deficits, and high taxes. Illinois has one of the highest property tax rates in the nation, driving some residents and businesses to relocate.
Efforts to stabilize finances, such as pension reform and balanced budget initiatives, are ongoing but have yet to significantly improve the ranking.
2. Crime & Corrections (#38)
Public safety is a concern, particularly in Chicago, which has struggled with gun violence. While crime rates in many suburbs remain low, urban areas drag down the state’s ranking. Illinois has implemented criminal justice reforms, but challenges persist.
3. Economy (#30)
Illinois has a diverse economy, with strong sectors in finance (Chicago is a global financial hub), manufacturing, agriculture, and technology. However, high taxes and regulatory burdens have led to some businesses leaving the state.
The unemployment rate is relatively low (around 4.5% in 2024), but economic growth lags behind states with more business-friendly policies.
Opportunity & Quality of Life
Illinois ranks #28 in Opportunity, reflecting mixed results in affordability and social mobility. While Chicago offers high-paying jobs in finance and tech, the cost of living—especially housing—is rising.
The Natural Environment ranking (#31) is average, with clean water access but concerns over pollution and climate resilience.
How Illinois Compares to Neighboring States
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Wisconsin (#8) – Ranks much higher due to better fiscal health and lower crime.
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Iowa (#9) – Strong in education and healthcare, with a lower cost of living.
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Indiana (#34) – Similar to Illinois but with lower taxes.
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Missouri (#37) – Struggles with education and infrastructure.
The Bottom Line: Is Illinois a Good Place to Live?
Illinois offers excellent education, healthcare, and job opportunities, especially in metropolitan areas. However, high taxes, fiscal instability, and crime drag down its overall ranking.
For those seeking urban amenities, cultural diversity, and career growth, Illinois—particularly Chicago—remains an attractive option. But for families and businesses prioritizing low costs and financial stability, other Midwestern states may be more appealing.
Final Thoughts
While Illinois isn’t a top-ranked state, it has undeniable strengths. With reforms in fiscal policy, public safety, and economic growth, it could climb higher in future rankings. For now, it remains a state of contrasts—boasting world-class cities alongside persistent challenges.
