This article takes a look at the 5 best places to retire in Illinois. If you wish to read our detailed analysis on navigating retirement living in the US, you may go to 15 Best Places to Retire in Illinois.
5. Belleville
Insider Monkey Score: 86
Livability: 79
Cost of Living Index: 80.8
Median House Price: $128,750
Starting off our top five selection is the St. Clair County city of Belleville. Becoming a manufacturing hub after the Civil War, Belleville is known as ‘The Stove Capital of the World’. It is also home to the state of Illinois’ first brewery, marking its place in local history. Residents can enjoy a fulfilling life in the city of Belleville with lots to fill their days – Eckert’s Pick Your Own Belleville Farm, an escape room, theatre, art center, and bowling alley are just some of the city’s best offerings.
4. Galesburg
Insider Monkey Score: 90
Livability: 71
Cost of Living Index: 69.8
Median House Price: $114,900
Our next pick for the best places to retire in Illinois is the Knox County city of Galesburg which holds the lowest cost of living index on our list. With a cost of living that is more than 30% below the national average, Galesburg is one of the most affordable retirement options available to senior citizens across the United States. The city is famous for hosting one of Illinois’ first anti-slavery societies and offers retirees a range of dining and entertainment avenues. Some popular options include the Galesburg Railroad Museum, the Attic Antique Shop, and the Galesburg Community Arts Center.
3. Springfield
Insider Monkey Score: 91
Livability: 81
Cost of Living Index: 78.4
Median House Price: $140,000
Our third pick is Illinois’ state capital – Springfield. Illinois’ largest city, Springfield carries rich political and historical ties. The city is best known for being President Obama’s place of stay during the start of his political career and also for being the home of President Abraham Lincoln. Residents can visit the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the Illinois State Museum, the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, and the Washington Park Botanical Garden, among others.
2. Freeport
Insider Monkey Score: 92
Livability: 72
Cost of Living Index: 72.7
Median House Price: $88,000
If you’re a food enthusiast – especially with a love for pretzels – then this next Illinois city is the perfect retirement choice. Known as ‘Pretzel City USA’, Freeport has been famous for its pretzels since the 1860s. The city also boasts a range of other highly-rated eateries including Applebee’s Grill + Bar, Fiesta En Cancun Mexican Restaurant, and Cimino’s Little Italy.
1. Princeton
Insider Monkey Score: 95
Livability: 81
Cost of Living Index: 73.1
Median House Price: $160,500
The best spot on our list of best places to retire in Illinois is the Bureau County city of Princeton. With a cost of living that is 26.9% lower than the national average and a low median house price of $160,500, Princeton presents itself as a financially secure retirement option for senior citizens without thousands in savings. The city caters to all needs – residents can seek medical care at the OSF Saint Clare Medical Center, grab a bite at Cafe Grace or Niel & Shorty’s BBQ Company, and keep life entertaining with a range of indoor and outdoor activities.
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