Illinois, in the Midwest, is known as the “Prairie State” for its extensive plains and farmland. It has a population of 12.5 million. Springfield is the state capital, known for its association with Abraham Lincoln, while Chicago, the largest city, is a global metropolis known for its architecture, culture, and economy.
10 Largest Cities in Illinois
1. Chicago (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Cook County (partly in DuPage County)
- Area: 234.0 square miles
- Population: 2,671,635 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 312, 773, 872
- ZIP Codes: 60601-60661
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.8781° N, 87.6298° W
Location and History
Chicago, the largest city in Illinois and the third-largest in the U.S., is located on the southwestern shores of Lake Michigan. Founded in 1833, Chicago grew rapidly due to its strategic location between the Great Lakes and the Mississippi River. By the mid-19th century, it became a transportation and industrial hub, known for its railroads and stockyards. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 devastated much of the city, but it was quickly rebuilt, leading to innovations in architecture and urban planning. Today, Chicago is known for its diverse economy, rich cultural scene, and historic landmarks, playing a vital role in national and international trade, finance, and culture.
Major Landmarks
- Willis Tower: Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this 110-story skyscraper was once the tallest building in the world.
- Millennium Park: A popular downtown park featuring the iconic “Cloud Gate” (the Bean) sculpture and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
- Navy Pier: A lakefront attraction offering rides, dining, entertainment, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
- Art Institute of Chicago: One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., home to famous works like Grant Wood’s American Gothic.
- Field Museum: A natural history museum featuring exhibits on anthropology, paleontology, and the famous T. rex skeleton, “Sue.”
Major Highways
Chicago is a major transportation hub, with multiple highways converging in the city. Interstate 90 (I-90) and Interstate 94 (I-94) run through the city, connecting it to the northern and southern U.S. via the Kennedy and Dan Ryan Expressways. Interstate 290 (I-290) provides access to the western suburbs via the Eisenhower Expressway. Interstate 55 (I-55) runs southwest from the city toward St. Louis. Chicago’s extensive road network includes the Chicago Skyway, U.S. Route 41 (Lake Shore Drive), and the Loop elevated train system, making it highly accessible for residents and travelers alike.
2. Aurora (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Kane, DuPage, Kendall, Will Counties
- Area: 46.6 square miles
- Population: 199,927 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 630, 331
- ZIP Codes: 60502-60599
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.7606° N, 88.3201° W
Location and History
Aurora is located approximately 40 miles west of Chicago and spans four counties. Nicknamed the “City of Lights,” Aurora was one of the first cities in the U.S. to install electric streetlights in 1881. The city grew rapidly in the 19th century due to its location along the Fox River and its role as a key stop on the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad. Aurora’s economy historically revolved around manufacturing, particularly in the railroad and textile industries. In recent decades, the city has diversified its economy, with healthcare, education, and technology playing significant roles.
Major Landmarks
- Paramount Theatre: A historic theater offering Broadway-style productions, concerts, and performances.
- Phillips Park Zoo: A small, free zoo located within Phillips Park, home to native animals and educational exhibits.
- SciTech Hands-On Museum: An interactive science museum designed for children and families, featuring over 200 exhibits.
- Aurora Regional Fire Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of firefighting in Aurora and the surrounding region.
- Red Oak Nature Center: A nature preserve along the Fox River with hiking trails, a cave, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
Major Highways
Aurora is well-connected by major highways, including Interstate 88, which runs east-west and connects the city to Chicago and the western part of the state. U.S. Route 30 runs through the southern part of the city, offering access to nearby towns. Illinois Route 31 runs north-south through Aurora, following the Fox River, while Illinois Route 25 parallels it on the opposite side. Additionally, Illinois Route 59 serves as a key arterial road through the city, connecting Aurora to Naperville and other suburbs.
3. Joliet (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Will and Kendall Counties
- Area: 65.1 square miles
- Population: 150,931 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 815, 779
- ZIP Codes: 60431-60436
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.5250° N, 88.0817° W
Location and History
Joliet is located southwest of Chicago and serves as the county seat of Will County. Founded in 1833, the city was originally named Juliet but was later renamed Joliet in honor of French-Canadian explorer Louis Jolliet. Joliet grew rapidly in the 19th century due to its proximity to the Illinois and Michigan Canal and the Des Plaines River. The city became an industrial hub, known for its steel mills and limestone quarries. Today, Joliet is known for its entertainment venues, including the Chicagoland Speedway and Harrah’s Casino, as well as its historic downtown district.
Major Landmarks
- Chicagoland Speedway: A major venue for NASCAR races, drawing motorsports fans from across the region.
- Rialto Square Theatre: A historic theater in downtown Joliet, known for its beautiful architecture and live performances.
- Joliet Area Historical Museum: A museum showcasing the history of Joliet, including exhibits on local industry and transportation.
- Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel: A popular riverboat casino offering gaming, dining, and entertainment.
- Route 66 Park: A small park dedicated to Joliet’s role in the history of U.S. Route 66, featuring sculptures and historic markers.
Major Highways
Joliet is connected by several major highways, including Interstate 55, which runs north-south and connects the city to Chicago and St. Louis. Interstate 80 runs east-west, providing access to the Quad Cities and Indiana. U.S. Route 30 runs through the city, while U.S. Route 6 serves as a key local thoroughfare. Illinois Route 53 also runs through Joliet, providing a direct route to nearby communities. These highways make Joliet an important transportation hub in the Chicago metropolitan area.
4. Naperville (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: DuPage and Will Counties
- Area: 39.5 square miles
- Population: 149,540 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 630, 331
- ZIP Codes: 60540-60567
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.7508° N, 88.1535° W
Location and History
Naperville is located about 30 miles west of Chicago and is consistently ranked among the best places to live in the U.S. Founded in 1831 by Joseph Naper, the city grew as a frontier outpost and agricultural center. In the mid-20th century, Naperville transformed from a small farming town into a bustling suburban community due to its proximity to Chicago. The city is known for its high-quality schools, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere. Naperville’s thriving economy is driven by a mix of healthcare, education, and technology industries, with many corporate headquarters located nearby.
Major Landmarks
- Naperville Riverwalk: A beautiful 1.75-mile path along the DuPage River, featuring bridges, fountains, and public art.
- Naper Settlement: A 12-acre outdoor history museum that recreates 19th-century life in Naperville, with historic buildings and educational programs.
- Centennial Beach: A unique swimming facility converted from an old quarry, popular with families during the summer months.
- Dupage Children’s Museum: A hands-on children’s museum offering interactive exhibits focused on art, science, and math.
- Moser Tower and Millennium Carillon: A 160-foot tower housing one of the largest carillons in the world, offering panoramic views of the city.
Major Highways
Naperville is served by several major highways, including Interstate 88, which runs along the northern edge of the city, connecting it to Chicago and the western suburbs. Illinois Route 59 is a major north-south route that runs through Naperville, offering access to neighboring Aurora and Plainfield. U.S. Route 34 (Ogden Avenue) serves as a key east-west arterial road, providing connections to downtown Chicago and nearby suburbs. Illinois Route 53 also runs through the city, offering additional access to the surrounding area.
5. Rockford (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Winnebago County
- Area: 64.6 square miles
- Population: 147,651 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 815, 779
- ZIP Codes: 61101-61110
- Latitude/Longitude: 42.2711° N, 89.0937° W
Location and History
Rockford is located in northern Illinois, along the Rock River, about 90 miles northwest of Chicago. Founded in 1834, Rockford grew as an industrial and manufacturing center, with industries ranging from furniture production to machine tools. During the early 20th century, the city became known as the “Screw Capital of the World” due to its prominence in hardware manufacturing. Rockford’s economic base has diversified over the years, and it is now known for its aerospace industry, healthcare, and education. The city is also a cultural hub for northern Illinois, with a vibrant arts scene and historical attractions.
Major Landmarks
- Anderson Japanese Gardens: A 12-acre Japanese garden recognized as one of the most beautiful in North America, offering serene landscapes and traditional architecture.
- Burpee Museum of Natural History: Known for its dinosaur exhibits, including the famous “Jane,” a juvenile T. rex fossil.
- Rock Cut State Park: A large state park offering hiking, fishing, camping, and wildlife viewing, located just outside Rockford.
- Coronado Performing Arts Center: A historic theater hosting concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances.
- Discovery Center Museum: A hands-on science museum for children, featuring interactive exhibits on a wide range of topics.
Major Highways
Rockford is accessible via several major highways, including Interstate 90, which connects the city to Chicago and Wisconsin. Interstate 39 runs north-south, providing access to central Illinois. U.S. Route 20 runs through Rockford, offering an east-west route across northern Illinois. Illinois Route 251 serves as a key local route, running parallel to I-90. Additionally, Rockford is served by a regional airport and Amtrak service, making it a well-connected transportation hub.
6. Elgin (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Kane and Cook Counties
- Area: 37.2 square miles
- Population: 113,528 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 847, 224
- ZIP Codes: 60120-60124
- Latitude/Longitude: 42.0354° N, 88.2826° W
Location and History
Elgin is located along the Fox River, about 35 miles northwest of Chicago. Founded in 1835, the city became known for its dairy industry and, later, the Elgin Watch Company, which produced high-quality watches and made Elgin famous worldwide. In the 20th century, Elgin diversified its economy, with industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and education playing key roles. Today, Elgin is a vibrant suburban city with a diverse population, offering residents a mix of historic charm and modern amenities. The city’s proximity to Chicago and its position along major transportation routes have contributed to its continued growth.
Major Landmarks
- Elgin Symphony Orchestra: A renowned regional orchestra that performs at the Hemmens Cultural Center, offering a wide range of classical and contemporary music.
- Elgin Public Museum: A natural history museum located in Lords Park, featuring exhibits on local wildlife, Native American history, and geology.
- Gail Borden Public Library: One of the largest libraries in Illinois, known for its innovative programming and architectural design.
- Lords Park Zoo: A small zoo within Lords Park, home to bison, elk, and other animals native to the Midwest.
- Wing Park: Elgin’s largest park, offering a swimming pool, golf course, sports fields, and walking trails.
Major Highways
Elgin is connected to the Chicago metropolitan area by several major highways. Interstate 90 (Jane Addams Memorial Tollway) runs along the northern edge of the city, providing a direct route to Chicago and Rockford. U.S. Route 20 serves as a key east-west route through the city, connecting Elgin to nearby suburbs. Illinois Route 31 and Illinois Route 25 run parallel to the Fox River, offering north-south access through the city. These highways, along with the Metra commuter rail service, make Elgin easily accessible for commuters and travelers.
7. Springfield (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Sangamon County
- Area: 59.5 square miles
- Population: 114,394 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 217
- ZIP Codes: 62701-62796
- Latitude/Longitude: 39.7817° N, 89.6501° W
Location and History
Springfield, the capital of Illinois, is located in the central part of the state. Founded in 1821, it became the state capital in 1839, largely due to the efforts of Abraham Lincoln, who lived and worked in the city before becoming president. Springfield is closely associated with Lincoln, and many of its historical landmarks focus on his life and legacy. The city grew as a center for politics, government, and education, with a diversified economy that includes healthcare, manufacturing, and government services. Springfield remains a key political and cultural hub for Illinois.
Major Landmarks
- Lincoln Home National Historic Site: The preserved home of Abraham Lincoln, where he lived before becoming the 16th President of the United States.
- Illinois State Capitol: The seat of government for the state of Illinois, known for its impressive dome and architectural design.
- Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum: A world-class museum dedicated to the life and legacy of Lincoln, featuring exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.
- Old State Capitol: The historic building where Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech and where his body lay in state after his assassination.
- Dana-Thomas House: A historic home designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, showcasing the architect’s signature Prairie School style.
Major Highways
Springfield is a key transportation hub in central Illinois, with several major highways converging in the city. Interstate 55 runs north-south through Springfield, connecting it to Chicago and St. Louis. Interstate 72 runs east-west, linking Springfield to Decatur and Quincy. U.S. Route 66, the historic highway, passes through Springfield and remains a tourist attraction. U.S. Route 36 and Illinois Route 29 also serve as important routes for regional travel, providing access to nearby communities and attractions.
8. Peoria (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Peoria County
- Area: 50.2 square miles
- Population: 113,060 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 309
- ZIP Codes: 61601-61656
- Latitude/Longitude: 40.6936° N, 89.5889° W
Location and History
Peoria, located along the Illinois River in central Illinois, is one of the oldest European settlements in the state, founded in 1691 by French explorers. The city became a major industrial and agricultural center in the 19th and 20th centuries, with manufacturing, especially Caterpillar Inc., playing a central role in its economy. Peoria’s location along the river helped it develop into a transportation hub. Today, Peoria is known for its cultural institutions, healthcare industry, and vibrant downtown area. The city is also a center for education, home to Bradley University and several research institutions.
Major Landmarks
- Peoria Riverfront Museum: A museum complex featuring exhibits on art, history, science, and a planetarium.
- Caterpillar Visitors Center: A museum dedicated to the history of Caterpillar Inc., with exhibits on heavy machinery and the company’s impact on the world.
- Grandview Drive: A scenic drive along the Illinois River, offering panoramic views of the river valley and historic homes.
- Peoria Zoo: Located in Glen Oak Park, the zoo is home to animals from around the world and offers educational programs and exhibits.
- Wildlife Prairie Park: A 2,000-acre zoological park that features native Illinois animals in naturalistic settings, along with hiking trails and outdoor activities.
Major Highways
Peoria is connected to the surrounding region by several major highways. Interstate 74 runs east-west through the city, providing a direct route to the Quad Cities and Bloomington. U.S. Route 150 and Illinois Route 29 run parallel to the Illinois River, offering access to nearby communities. Illinois Route 116 connects Peoria to the northern parts of the state. These highways, along with the Greater Peoria Regional Airport, make Peoria a key transportation hub for central Illinois.
9. Waukegan (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Lake County
- Area: 24.5 square miles
- Population: 89,321 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 847, 224
- ZIP Codes: 60079-60087
- Latitude/Longitude: 42.3636° N, 87.8448° W
Location and History
Waukegan is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, about 40 miles north of Chicago. The city was first settled in the late 17th century as a French trading post and grew into an industrial center in the 19th century due to its proximity to both Chicago and Milwaukee. Waukegan’s harbor on Lake Michigan helped the city develop as a key transportation and manufacturing hub. Today, Waukegan is known for its diverse population, revitalized downtown, and cultural institutions, as well as its scenic lakefront and historic landmarks.
Major Landmarks
- Genesee Theatre: A restored historic theater that hosts concerts, Broadway shows, and other live performances.
- Waukegan Harbor: A marina and recreational area offering boating, fishing, and scenic views of Lake Michigan.
- Jack Benny Center for the Arts: Named after the famous comedian who grew up in Waukegan, this center offers arts education and performances.
- Bowen Park: A large park with nature trails, sports fields, and historic buildings, including the Waukegan History Museum.
- Waukegan Municipal Beach: A popular beach on Lake Michigan, offering swimming, picnicking, and views of the Chicago skyline on clear days.
Major Highways
Waukegan is well-connected by several major highways. Interstate 94 runs along the western edge of the city, providing a direct route to Chicago and Milwaukee. U.S. Route 41 runs through the city, serving as a major north-south thoroughfare along the Lake Michigan shoreline. Illinois Route 120 runs east-west through Waukegan, connecting the city to nearby suburbs and recreational areas. Additionally, Illinois Route 131 offers access to local neighborhoods and industrial areas.
10. Cicero (Illinois)
City Facts
- County: Cook County
- Area: 5.9 square miles
- Population: 80,772 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 708
- ZIP Codes: 60804
- Latitude/Longitude: 41.8456° N, 87.7539° W
Location and History
Cicero is located just west of Chicago and is one of the oldest municipalities in Illinois, originally incorporated in 1867. Once much larger in area, Cicero lost land to its neighboring cities, including Chicago, Oak Park, and Berwyn. The town played an important role in the industrial growth of the Chicago area, with manufacturing industries driving its economy for much of the 20th century. Cicero is perhaps best known for its connection to notorious gangster Al Capone, who operated in the town during the Prohibition era. Today, Cicero is a diverse, predominantly Latino community with a strong working-class identity.
Major Landmarks
- Cicero Stadium: A multi-purpose facility used for sporting events, concerts, and community gatherings.
- Hawthorne Works Museum: A museum dedicated to the history of the Western Electric Company’s Hawthorne Works plant, which was once a major employer in Cicero.
- Al Capone’s former headquarters: A historical site that draws tourists interested in the infamous gangster’s activities during the Prohibition era.
- Our Lady of the Mount Church: A historic Catholic church known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant parish community.
- Cicero Community Park: A popular park offering sports fields, playgrounds, and areas for family picnics and local events.
Major Highways
Cicero is located near several major highways, providing easy access to the Chicago metropolitan area. Interstate 55 runs along the southern edge of the town, offering a direct route to downtown Chicago and the southwestern suburbs. Interstate 290 runs just north of Cicero, connecting the town to the western suburbs and the city. Illinois Route 50 (Cicero Avenue) is a major north-south road that runs through the heart of the town. Additionally, the CTA Pink Line and Metra commuter rail services provide public transportation options to downtown Chicago.