Cost of living

Illinois generally has a comparable or slightly lower cost of living compared to Colorado, though it varies by city. Chicago and its suburbs have higher housing and transportation costs, while smaller cities and towns are more affordable. Colorado cities like Denver and Boulder are expensive, but Illinois offers a mix of affordable living in suburban and rural areas, balancing the higher costs in Chicago.

Housing

Housing in Illinois varies widely. Chicago and nearby suburbs like Naperville and Evanston have higher home prices and rental rates, while cities such as Peoria, Springfield, and Rockford offer more affordable housing options. Compared to Colorado, where urban areas like Denver and Boulder have seen rapid price increases, Illinois provides a broader range of housing choices at more attainable prices.

Job opportunities

Illinois has a diverse job market, with key sectors including finance, manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Chicago is a major financial and corporate hub, while other cities provide opportunities in manufacturing, education, and healthcare. Colorado has a strong tech, energy, and healthcare sector, but Illinois offers robust employment options in finance, manufacturing, and service industries, particularly in Chicago.

Education

Illinois provides strong educational opportunities, including universities such as the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, and the University of Chicago. Public school districts in areas like Naperville, Evanston, and Springfield are highly rated. Colorado also offers excellent educational options, but Illinois has a concentration of prestigious universities and well-ranked public school systems, particularly in the Chicago area.

Transportation

Transportation in Illinois is highly developed in urban areas, especially Chicago, with extensive public transit including CTA trains, buses, and commuter rail. Major highways such as I-55, I-57, and I-90 connect cities and regions efficiently. Colorado is more car-dependent, though Denver has a growing light rail and bus network. Illinois offers a combination of urban transit and well-connected interstate highways for regional and national travel.

Entertainment

Illinois offers a wide range of entertainment options, from Chicago’s museums, theaters, sports teams, and music venues to cultural and historic attractions in smaller cities. Outdoor recreation includes hiking, boating, and parks throughout the state. While Colorado emphasizes mountain-based recreation, Illinois provides a mix of urban cultural experiences and accessible outdoor activities across the state.

Parks and Recreation

Illinois provides numerous parks and outdoor spaces, including Starved Rock State Park, Shawnee National Forest, and the Lake Michigan shoreline. Residents can enjoy hiking, boating, fishing, and camping. While Colorado is known for mountain recreation, Illinois offers diverse landscapes with forests, lakes, and rivers suitable for a variety of outdoor activities.