Best Cities for Veterans in Illinois 2025: Jobs, Housing & Quality of Life

Illinois presents a unique challenge for veterans: some of the nation's highest property taxes and cost of living in Chicago, but also generous veteran benefits, excellent VA healthcare, and affordable downstate cities. Choosing the right city in Illinois can make the difference between thriving and struggling financially.

This guide evaluates Illinois cities specifically for veterans, considering property taxes, VA healthcare access, job opportunities, housing costs, and veteran community strength.

Bottom Line Up Front

Best overall for veterans: Springfield (affordable housing, state jobs, VA clinic, manageable property taxes)

Best for disabled veterans (70%+): Naperville or Aurora suburbs (property tax exemption eliminates high taxes, excellent schools, strong job market)

Best for military-adjacent jobs: North Chicago/Lake County (Great Lakes Naval Station), Rock Island area (Arsenal), Belleville/O'Fallon (Scott AFB)

Best for affordability: Rockford, Peoria, Decatur, Champaign-Urbana (downstate cities with low housing costs)

Best for healthcare access: Chicago suburbs with easy access to Hines VA or Jesse Brown VA

Avoid if: You're under 50% disabled and considering expensive Chicago suburbs - property taxes will crush your budget

Understanding Illinois's Unique Tax Situation for Veterans

Before evaluating specific cities, understand this critical point: Illinois property taxes are among the nation's highest, but the veteran property tax exemptions are also among the most generous.

The Math Changes Everything Based on Disability Rating

Under 50% disabled:

$2,500 EAV reduction (saves ~$250-300/year)
You'll still pay high Illinois property taxes
Consider downstate cities with lower baseline rates

50-69% disabled:

$5,000 EAV reduction (saves ~$500-600/year)
Helpful but doesn't eliminate high taxes
Still favor downstate or moderate suburbs

70%+ disabled:

$250,000 EAV reduction (often eliminates property taxes entirely)
High-tax suburbs become affordable
You can live in expensive areas without the tax burden

This guide evaluates cities with this reality in mind.

Rating Criteria

Each city is evaluated on:

Cost of Living (housing, property taxes, overall expenses)
VA Healthcare Access (distance to VA medical center or clinic)
Job Market (veteran-friendly employers, military installations, opportunities)
Veteran Community (population, VSOs, support services)
Quality of Life (schools, safety, amenities, climate)

Tier 1: Best Overall Cities for Veterans

1. Springfield (State Capital)

Veteran population: ~12,000 Median home price: $150,000 Property tax rate: ~2.1% Annual property tax (without exemption): $3,150 on median home Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0-500

VA Healthcare: Springfield VA Clinic (5850 S. 6th Street) - primary care, mental health VA Medical Center: Danville (60 miles), Hines (200 miles) Vet Center: Springfield Vet Center (1227 S. Ninth Street)

Major employers:

State of Illinois (15,000+ employees - hiring preference for veterans)
Memorial Health System (4,800+ employees)
HSHS St. John's Hospital (3,500+ employees)
Horace Mann Insurance (1,200+ employees)
State Farm regional offices

Pros:

Affordable housing ($150K median vs $300K+ in Chicago suburbs)
State government jobs with veteran hiring preference
VA clinic in town for routine care
Low cost of living (25% below national average)
Manageable property taxes even without exemption
Good schools in suburban districts (Chatham, Pleasant Plains)
Rich Lincoln history and cultural amenities
Central Illinois location (3 hours to Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis)

Cons:

Limited VA specialty care (requires travel to Danville or Hines)
Smaller job market outside state government
Higher unemployment than state average (6.8% vs 4.5% national)
Cold winters (average January temp: 26°F)
Limited entertainment/nightlife compared to larger cities

Best for: Veterans seeking state government careers, affordable housing, manageable taxes, and central Illinois location

Veteran rating: 9/10

2. Naperville (Chicago Western Suburb)

Veteran population: ~6,000 Median home price: $585,000 Property tax rate: ~2.3% Annual property tax (without exemption): $13,455 on median home Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $1,000-2,000

VA Healthcare: Aurora VA Clinic (15 minutes), Hines VA Medical Center (25 minutes) Vet Center: Chicago area Vet Centers (30-40 minutes)

Major employers:

Argonne National Laboratory (security clearances beneficial)
BP North America (corporate headquarters)
OfficeMax/Office Depot (corporate)
Edward-Elmhurst Health
Numerous defense contractors and tech companies

Pros:

Ranked #1 city to live in America by Niche (2025)
Excellent public schools (top-rated in Illinois)
Very low crime rate
Close to Hines VA (one of nation's top VA facilities)
Strong job market in tech, healthcare, corporate
Beautiful downtown, riverwalk, parks
Metra train service to Chicago (45 minutes)
High median household income ($147,000)
70%+ disabled veterans pay minimal property tax despite high values

Cons:

Expensive - $585K median home price
High property taxes if under 70% disability ($13,000+/year)
High cost of living overall (6% above national average)
7.75% sales tax
Traffic congestion during rush hour
Cold winters

Best for: 70%+ disabled veterans who can eliminate property taxes, dual-income families, veterans with high-paying careers, those prioritizing top schools

Veteran rating: 8/10 (10/10 if 70%+ disabled, 6/10 if under 50% disabled)

3. Aurora (Chicago Western Suburb)

Veteran population: ~8,000 Median home price: $275,000 Property tax rate: ~2.4% Annual property tax (without exemption): $6,600 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0-500

VA Healthcare: Aurora VA Clinic (1700 N. Farnsworth Ave) VA Medical Center: Hines (30 minutes)

Major employers:

Rush-Copley Medical Center (2,500+ employees)
Amazon fulfillment center (1,500+ employees)
Caterpillar Aurora plant
Hollywood Casino Aurora
Waubonsee Community College
Numerous manufacturers and logistics companies

Pros:

More affordable than Naperville ($275K vs $585K)
VA clinic located directly in city
Close to Hines VA Medical Center
Amazon and logistics sector hiring heavily
Metra train service to Chicago
Riverboat casino (entertainment/jobs)
Growing downtown with revitalization efforts
Illinois's 2nd largest city (population 180,000)
Property tax exemption makes housing very affordable for 70%+ disabled

Cons:

Higher crime rate than neighboring suburbs
Some areas have older housing stock
Property taxes still high without exemption
Schools vary significantly by neighborhood
Less "prestigious" than Naperville or other western suburbs

Best for: Veterans seeking Chicago suburb benefits at lower cost, easy VA clinic access, manufacturing/logistics jobs, 70%+ disabled veterans

Veteran rating: 8.5/10

4. Champaign-Urbana (University Town)

Veteran population: ~8,000 Median home price: $185,000 Property tax rate: ~2.0% Annual property tax (without exemption): $3,700 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0-500

VA Healthcare: No VA clinic in city (Danville 45 minutes) VA Medical Center: Danville VA (45 minutes)

Major employers:

University of Illinois (15,000+ employees)
Carle Health System (6,000+ employees)
Parkland College
State Farm regional office
Wolfram Research
Tech startups and university spin-offs
Yahoo regional office

Pros:

Affordable housing (ranked top 10 most affordable U.S. markets)
FREE tuition at University of Illinois via Illinois Veteran Grant (worth $30,000+/year)
Excellent universities (UIUC ranked top 15 public university)
College town amenities (culture, sports, dining)
Low cost of living
Strong job market (3.5% unemployment)
Veterans housing available at Highland Green (Urbana)
Safe neighborhoods
Great for veterans pursuing education

Cons:

No VA clinic in city (must travel to Danville)
Limited VA specialty care locally
Smaller job market outside university/healthcare
College town atmosphere may not suit everyone
Cold winters
Limited nightlife outside campus scene
Property taxes still significant without 70%+ exemption

Best for: Veterans using Illinois Veteran Grant for FREE tuition at UIUC, education-focused careers, affordable cost of living, college town culture

Veteran rating: 8.5/10 (10/10 if pursuing degree at UIUC)

Tier 2: Excellent for Specific Situations

5. North Chicago / Lake County Area

Veteran population: ~28,000 (Lake County) Median home price: $225,000 (North Chicago), $350,000+ (Lake County suburbs) Property tax rate: ~2.0-2.5%

VA Healthcare: Lovell Federal Health Care Center (3001 Green Bay Road, North Chicago) - full VA medical center VA Clinic: Libertyville (1900 Hollister Drive)

Major employers:

Naval Station Great Lakes (35,000 military/civilian)
Abbott Laboratories (corporate headquarters, 5,000+ employees)
Baxter International
AbbVie
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
Vista Medical Center

Pros:

Full VA medical center (Lovell) in North Chicago
Great Lakes Naval Station offers thousands of civilian jobs
Strong veteran community (28,000+ in county)
Major pharmaceutical/healthcare job market
Lake Michigan shoreline and beaches
Metra train access to Chicago
Mix of affordable (North Chicago, Waukegan) and upscale (Lake Forest, Libertyville) communities

Cons:

Property taxes very high in nicer suburbs ($8,000-12,000/year without exemption)
North Chicago/Waukegan have higher crime rates
Expensive in desirable areas
Cold winters, lake effect snow
Traffic congestion on I-94

Best for: Veterans transitioning from Navy, seeking Great Lakes civilian jobs, needing full VA medical center access, 70%+ disabled veterans who can afford nice suburbs with tax exemption

Veteran rating: 8/10

6. Peoria (Central Illinois)

Veteran population: ~10,000 Median home price: $130,000 Property tax rate: ~2.2% Annual property tax (without exemption): $2,860 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0

VA Healthcare: Bob Michel VA Outpatient Clinic (7717 N. Orange Prairie Road) VA Medical Center: Danville (100 miles) Vet Center: Peoria Vet Center (8305 N. Allen Road)

Major employers:

Caterpillar Inc. (corporate headquarters, 12,000+ employees)
OSF HealthCare (6,000+ employees)
UnityPoint Health (4,000+ employees)
Bradley University
Illinois Central College

Pros:

Very affordable housing ($130K median)
VA clinic in city for primary care
Vet Center for counseling services
Caterpillar headquarters (veteran-friendly employer)
Strong healthcare job market
Lower cost of living (20% below national average)
Riverfront revitalization
Property tax exemption eliminates taxes for 70%+ disabled

Cons:

Limited VA specialty care (requires travel)
Smaller job market outside Caterpillar/healthcare
Cold winters
Some areas with higher crime
Population decline over past decade
Limited cultural amenities compared to larger cities

Best for: Veterans seeking Caterpillar jobs, affordable housing, VA clinic access, central Illinois location, low cost of living

Veteran rating: 7.5/10

7. Rockford (Northern Illinois)

Veteran population: ~15,000 Median home price: $145,000 Property tax rate: ~2.5% Annual property tax (without exemption): $3,625 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0

VA Healthcare: No VA clinic in city (closest: VA Illiana system) Vet Center: Rockford Vet Center (7015 Rote Road)

Major employers:

UTC Aerospace Systems
Woodward, Inc.
Walmart distribution center
SwedishAmerican Health System
OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
Rockford Public Schools

Pros:

Very affordable housing ($145K median)
Vet Center for counseling
Manufacturing jobs (aerospace, automotive)
90 minutes from Chicago (close but cheaper)
Property tax exemption valuable for 70%+ disabled
Revitalizing downtown

Cons:

No VA clinic in city (major drawback)
Higher crime rate than state average
Property taxes very high without exemption (2.5% rate)
Economic struggles, population decline
Limited veteran services locally
Cold winters

Best for: Veterans seeking cheap housing, manufacturing jobs, willing to travel for VA care, 70%+ disabled who can eliminate property taxes

Veteran rating: 6.5/10

8. Belleville / O'Fallon (Metro East - Near Scott AFB)

Veteran population: Significant (Scott AFB area) Median home price: $180,000 Property tax rate: ~1.8-2.0%

VA Healthcare: East St. Louis Vet Center, Marion VA (90 minutes), St. Louis VA (across river) Military Installation: Scott Air Force Base (10 miles)

Major employers:

Scott Air Force Base (13,000 military/civilian)
Memorial Hospital
HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital
Southwestern Illinois College
Defense contractors supporting Scott AFB

Pros:

Scott Air Force Base proximity (civilian jobs, commissary, medical)
Affordable housing ($180K median)
Lower property taxes than northern Illinois
Access to St. Louis amenities across river
Strong military community
VA services accessible in St. Louis
Lower cost of living

Cons:

No VA medical center in Illinois side (use St. Louis VA)
East St. Louis has very high crime (avoid)
Limited Illinois-side VA services
Some areas struggling economically
Not as much veteran-specific infrastructure

Best for: Air Force veterans, Scott AFB civilian jobs, affordable housing near military base, access to St. Louis

Veteran rating: 7.5/10 (if transitioning from Air Force or seeking Scott AFB jobs)

Tier 3: Good Options with Caveats

9. Chicago (City Proper)

Veteran population: ~180,000 (Cook County, including suburbs) Median home price: $355,000 (city average, varies wildly by neighborhood) Property tax rate: ~2.0% Annual property tax (without exemption): $7,100 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $500-1,500

VA Healthcare: Jesse Brown VA Medical Center (820 S. Damen Ave), Hines VA (western suburb) Vet Centers: Chicago Vet Center (7731 S. Halsted), Chicago Heights Vet Center

Major employers:

United Airlines (headquarters)
Boeing (Chicago office)
Numerous defense contractors
Major healthcare systems
Fortune 500 corporate headquarters
Government agencies

Pros:

Two VA medical centers nearby
Massive job market (every industry represented)
World-class culture, dining, entertainment
Excellent public transit (CTA, Metra)
Strong veteran community
Diverse neighborhoods
Illinois Veteran Grant covers tuition at UIC, Chicago State, Northeastern Illinois

Cons:

Very expensive ($355K median, much higher in nice neighborhoods)
High property taxes even with exemption
High crime in some neighborhoods
Expensive cost of living overall (15% above national average)
Brutal winters
10.25% sales tax (highest in nation)
Parking expensive/difficult
Traffic congestion

Best for: Veterans with high-paying careers, those prioritizing culture/nightlife, 70%+ disabled veterans, access to major employers, college students using IVG

Veteran rating: 7/10 (highly variable by neighborhood and financial situation)

10. Joliet (Southwest Suburb)

Veteran population: ~8,000 (Will County 25,000+) Median home price: $245,000 Property tax rate: ~2.3%

VA Healthcare: Joliet VA Clinic (2000 Glenwood Ave) VA Medical Center: Hines VA (40 minutes)

Major employers:

Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center
Silver Cross Hospital
Amazon warehouses (multiple)
Logistics and distribution companies
Harrah's Joliet Casino

Pros:

VA clinic in city
Affordable compared to northern suburbs ($245K)
Amazon and logistics sector hiring
Metra access to Chicago
Property tax exemption valuable
Two casinos (entertainment/jobs)

Cons:

Higher crime rate than neighboring suburbs
Property taxes high without exemption
Traffic congestion (I-80, I-55 junction)
Some struggling neighborhoods
Less desirable than other Chicago suburbs

Best for: Veterans in logistics/warehouse industry, needing VA clinic, moderate-cost Chicago suburb access

Veteran rating: 7/10

Cities to Approach with Caution

Decatur

Median home price: $85,000 (extremely affordable) Property tax rate: ~2.0%

Pros: Very cheap housing, low cost of living, Decatur VA Clinic

Cons: High crime rate, economic decline, population loss, limited jobs, struggling schools

Verdict: Only if you prioritize ultra-low housing costs and can handle economic challenges. The 70%+ property tax exemption is less valuable when homes are already $85K.

Veteran rating: 5/10

East St. Louis

Avoid: Very high crime rate, extreme economic distress, limited services despite proximity to Scott AFB

Veteran rating: 3/10 - Look at Belleville or O'Fallon instead

Climate Considerations

All Illinois cities face:

Cold winters (January average: 20-30°F)
Snow (20-40 inches annually, more in northern Illinois)
Hot, humid summers (July average: 75-85°F)
Tornadoes possible (Illinois is in tornado alley)

Northern Illinois: Colder, more snow, lake effect near Lake Michigan Central/Southern Illinois: Slightly milder winters, hotter summers

If you're from the South or West Coast, Illinois winters will be a significant adjustment. Budget for heating costs ($100-200/month in winter), snow removal, and winter clothing.

Cost of Living Comparison Table

City	Median Home Price	Property Tax (no exemption)	Property Tax (70%+ exemption)	Overall Cost of Living vs National
Springfield	$150,000	$3,150	$0-500	-25%
Naperville	$585,000	$13,455	$1,000-2,000	+6%
Aurora	$275,000	$6,600	$0-500	-5%
Champaign-Urbana	$185,000	$3,700	$0-500	-15%
North Chicago	$225,000	$4,500	$0-500	-8%
Peoria	$130,000	$2,860	$0	-20%
Rockford	$145,000	$3,625	$0	-18%
Belleville	$180,000	$3,240	$0-500	-22%
Chicago	$355,000	$7,100	$500-1,500	+15%
Joliet	$245,000	$5,635	$0-500	-3%

Veteran Services Comparison

City	VA Medical Center	VA Clinic	Vet Center	State Vets Home	County VSO
Springfield	No (Danville 60mi)	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Naperville	Hines (25min)	Aurora nearby	Chicago area	No	Yes (DuPage)
Aurora	Hines (30min)	Yes	No	No	Yes (Kane)
Champaign	No (Danville 45min)	No	No	No	Yes
North Chicago	Lovell (in city)	Yes	No	No	Yes (Lake)
Peoria	No (Danville 100mi)	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Rockford	No	No	Yes	No	Yes
Belleville	No (St. Louis)	No	Yes	No	Yes
Chicago	Jesse Brown, Hines	Multiple	Yes	Chicago (new)	Yes (Cook)
Joliet	Hines (40min)	Yes	No	No	Yes (Will)

Recommendations by Situation

You're 70%+ Disabled

Best choice: Naperville, Aurora, or nice Chicago suburbs Why: Property tax exemption eliminates the major cost burden. You can afford areas with excellent schools, low crime, and strong job markets.

You're Under 50% Disabled

Best choice: Springfield, Champaign-Urbana, Peoria, Belleville Why: Lower baseline property taxes and housing costs. You'll still pay property taxes, so avoid expensive areas.

You're Transitioning from Military

Best choice: North Chicago (Great Lakes), Belleville/O'Fallon (Scott AFB), Rock Island area (Arsenal) Why: Military installation proximity, civilian jobs, commissary/PX access, familiar environment.

You're Pursuing Free College (Illinois Veteran Grant)

Best choice: Champaign-Urbana (UIUC), Chicago (UIC), Springfield (UIS) Why: Live near campus, use IVG for free tuition, collect GI Bill BAH. Total benefit: $50,000-100,000+ depending on degree.

You Need Intensive VA Healthcare

Best choice: Chicago area (Jesse Brown, Hines), North Chicago (Lovell) Why: Full VA medical centers with all specialties, immediate access to emergency care.

You Want Best Overall Value

Best choice: Springfield or Aurora Why: Balance of affordability, VA access, jobs, and quality of life.

You're a Dual-Income Family with Kids

Best choice: Naperville (if 70%+ disabled), Champaign-Urbana (if under 70%) Why: Naperville has best schools but expensive; Champaign offers good schools and affordability.

You're Single and Prioritizing Career

Best choice: Chicago or Naperville Why: Maximum job opportunities, career growth, networking.

You Want Lowest Cost of Living

Best choice: Peoria, Rockford, Decatur Why: Rock-bottom housing costs, but limited opportunities and amenities.

Key Takeaways

Disability rating changes everything: 70%+ disabled veterans should consider expensive suburbs because property tax exemption eliminates the major cost. Under 50% disabled should stick with affordable downstate cities.
Illinois Veteran Grant is gold: FREE tuition at public universities. If you're pursuing education, prioritize cities with good universities (Champaign, Chicago, Springfield).
VA healthcare access varies wildly: Chicago area has two medical centers, but many downstate cities require 60+ minute drives for specialty care.
Winters are brutal: Budget $1,500-2,500 extra annually for heating, snow removal, and winter needs.
Springfield offers best overall value: Affordable housing, state jobs with veteran preference, VA clinic, manageable taxes, central location.
Military installations = jobs: Great Lakes, Scott AFB, and Rock Island Arsenal offer thousands of civilian jobs with veteran preference.
Downstate is affordable, but limited: You'll save money but sacrifice opportunities, amenities, and sometimes VA access.
Apply property tax exemption immediately: Missing the March 31 deadline means paying full taxes for the year. Set a reminder.

Final Recommendation

If you're 70%+ disabled: Consider Naperville, Aurora, or nice Chicago suburbs. The property tax exemption unlocks areas that would otherwise be unaffordable.

If you're 50-69% disabled: Springfield or Champaign-Urbana offer the best balance of affordability, opportunities, and VA access.

If you're under 50% disabled: Springfield, Peoria, or Champaign-Urbana. Avoid expensive areas where high property taxes will strain your budget.

If you're transitioning from military: Choose based on your service branch - North Chicago (Navy), Belleville/O'Fallon (Air Force), Rock Island area (Army).

If you're pursuing education: Champaign-Urbana for UIUC, Chicago for UIC, Springfield for UIS. Use the Illinois Veteran Grant for FREE tuition.

Illinois isn't perfect for veterans - high taxes, cold weather, and expensive Chicago metro. But the veteran benefits are substantial, especially for disabled veterans. Choose wisely based on your disability rating, career goals, and personal priorities.

Resources

Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs: (217) 782-6641 | veterans.illinois.gov
County Veterans Assistance Commissions: Find yours by county
Property Tax Exemption: Contact your county assessor by March 31 annually
Illinois Veteran Grant: (800) 899-4722 | isac.org
VA Healthcare Enrollment: 1-877-222-VETS (8387)
Illinois JobLink (Veterans): illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov

Information current as of January 2025. Housing prices, tax rates, and job markets fluctuate. Verify current data before making relocation decisions.

Best Cities for Veterans in Illinois 2025: Jobs, Housing & Quality of Life

This guide evaluates Illinois cities specifically for veterans, considering property taxes, VA healthcare access, job opportunities, housing costs, and veteran community strength.

Bottom Line Up Front

Best overall for veterans: Springfield (affordable housing, state jobs, VA clinic, manageable property taxes)

Best for disabled veterans (70%+): Naperville or Aurora suburbs (property tax exemption eliminates high taxes, excellent schools, strong job market)

Best for military-adjacent jobs: North Chicago/Lake County (Great Lakes Naval Station), Rock Island area (Arsenal), Belleville/O'Fallon (Scott AFB)

Best for affordability: Rockford, Peoria, Decatur, Champaign-Urbana (downstate cities with low housing costs)

Best for healthcare access: Chicago suburbs with easy access to Hines VA or Jesse Brown VA

Avoid if: You're under 50% disabled and considering expensive Chicago suburbs - property taxes will crush your budget

Understanding Illinois's Unique Tax Situation for Veterans

The Math Changes Everything Based on Disability Rating

Under 50% disabled:

$2,500 EAV reduction (saves ~$250-300/year)
You'll still pay high Illinois property taxes
Consider downstate cities with lower baseline rates

50-69% disabled:

$5,000 EAV reduction (saves ~$500-600/year)
Helpful but doesn't eliminate high taxes
Still favor downstate or moderate suburbs

70%+ disabled:

$250,000 EAV reduction (often eliminates property taxes entirely)
High-tax suburbs become affordable
You can live in expensive areas without the tax burden

This guide evaluates cities with this reality in mind.

Rating Criteria

Each city is evaluated on:

Cost of Living (housing, property taxes, overall expenses)
VA Healthcare Access (distance to VA medical center or clinic)
Job Market (veteran-friendly employers, military installations, opportunities)
Veteran Community (population, VSOs, support services)
Quality of Life (schools, safety, amenities, climate)

Tier 1: Best Overall Cities for Veterans

1. Springfield (State Capital)

Major employers:

State of Illinois (15,000+ employees - hiring preference for veterans)
Memorial Health System (4,800+ employees)
HSHS St. John's Hospital (3,500+ employees)
Horace Mann Insurance (1,200+ employees)
State Farm regional offices

Pros:

Affordable housing ($150K median vs $300K+ in Chicago suburbs)
State government jobs with veteran hiring preference
VA clinic in town for routine care
Low cost of living (25% below national average)
Manageable property taxes even without exemption
Good schools in suburban districts (Chatham, Pleasant Plains)
Rich Lincoln history and cultural amenities
Central Illinois location (3 hours to Chicago, St. Louis, Indianapolis)

Cons:

Limited VA specialty care (requires travel to Danville or Hines)
Smaller job market outside state government
Higher unemployment than state average (6.8% vs 4.5% national)
Cold winters (average January temp: 26°F)
Limited entertainment/nightlife compared to larger cities

Best for: Veterans seeking state government careers, affordable housing, manageable taxes, and central Illinois location

Veteran rating: 9/10

2. Naperville (Chicago Western Suburb)

VA Healthcare: Aurora VA Clinic (15 minutes), Hines VA Medical Center (25 minutes) Vet Center: Chicago area Vet Centers (30-40 minutes)

Major employers:

Argonne National Laboratory (security clearances beneficial)
BP North America (corporate headquarters)
OfficeMax/Office Depot (corporate)
Edward-Elmhurst Health
Numerous defense contractors and tech companies

Pros:

Ranked #1 city to live in America by Niche (2025)
Excellent public schools (top-rated in Illinois)
Very low crime rate
Close to Hines VA (one of nation's top VA facilities)
Strong job market in tech, healthcare, corporate
Beautiful downtown, riverwalk, parks
Metra train service to Chicago (45 minutes)
High median household income ($147,000)
70%+ disabled veterans pay minimal property tax despite high values

Cons:

Expensive - $585K median home price
High property taxes if under 70% disability ($13,000+/year)
High cost of living overall (6% above national average)
7.75% sales tax
Traffic congestion during rush hour
Cold winters

Best for: 70%+ disabled veterans who can eliminate property taxes, dual-income families, veterans with high-paying careers, those prioritizing top schools

Veteran rating: 8/10 (10/10 if 70%+ disabled, 6/10 if under 50% disabled)

3. Aurora (Chicago Western Suburb)

Veteran population: ~8,000 Median home price: $275,000 Property tax rate: ~2.4% Annual property tax (without exemption): $6,600 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0-500

VA Healthcare: Aurora VA Clinic (1700 N. Farnsworth Ave) VA Medical Center: Hines (30 minutes)

Major employers:

Rush-Copley Medical Center (2,500+ employees)
Amazon fulfillment center (1,500+ employees)
Caterpillar Aurora plant
Hollywood Casino Aurora
Waubonsee Community College
Numerous manufacturers and logistics companies

Pros:

More affordable than Naperville ($275K vs $585K)
VA clinic located directly in city
Close to Hines VA Medical Center
Amazon and logistics sector hiring heavily
Metra train service to Chicago
Riverboat casino (entertainment/jobs)
Growing downtown with revitalization efforts
Illinois's 2nd largest city (population 180,000)
Property tax exemption makes housing very affordable for 70%+ disabled

Cons:

Higher crime rate than neighboring suburbs
Some areas have older housing stock
Property taxes still high without exemption
Schools vary significantly by neighborhood
Less "prestigious" than Naperville or other western suburbs

Best for: Veterans seeking Chicago suburb benefits at lower cost, easy VA clinic access, manufacturing/logistics jobs, 70%+ disabled veterans

Veteran rating: 8.5/10

4. Champaign-Urbana (University Town)

Veteran population: ~8,000 Median home price: $185,000 Property tax rate: ~2.0% Annual property tax (without exemption): $3,700 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0-500

VA Healthcare: No VA clinic in city (Danville 45 minutes) VA Medical Center: Danville VA (45 minutes)

Major employers:

University of Illinois (15,000+ employees)
Carle Health System (6,000+ employees)
Parkland College
State Farm regional office
Wolfram Research
Tech startups and university spin-offs
Yahoo regional office

Pros:

Affordable housing (ranked top 10 most affordable U.S. markets)
FREE tuition at University of Illinois via Illinois Veteran Grant (worth $30,000+/year)
Excellent universities (UIUC ranked top 15 public university)
College town amenities (culture, sports, dining)
Low cost of living
Strong job market (3.5% unemployment)
Veterans housing available at Highland Green (Urbana)
Safe neighborhoods
Great for veterans pursuing education

Cons:

No VA clinic in city (must travel to Danville)
Limited VA specialty care locally
Smaller job market outside university/healthcare
College town atmosphere may not suit everyone
Cold winters
Limited nightlife outside campus scene
Property taxes still significant without 70%+ exemption

Best for: Veterans using Illinois Veteran Grant for FREE tuition at UIUC, education-focused careers, affordable cost of living, college town culture

Veteran rating: 8.5/10 (10/10 if pursuing degree at UIUC)

Tier 2: Excellent for Specific Situations

5. North Chicago / Lake County Area

Veteran population: ~28,000 (Lake County) Median home price: $225,000 (North Chicago), $350,000+ (Lake County suburbs) Property tax rate: ~2.0-2.5%

VA Healthcare: Lovell Federal Health Care Center (3001 Green Bay Road, North Chicago) - full VA medical center VA Clinic: Libertyville (1900 Hollister Drive)

Major employers:

Naval Station Great Lakes (35,000 military/civilian)
Abbott Laboratories (corporate headquarters, 5,000+ employees)
Baxter International
AbbVie
Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine
Vista Medical Center

Pros:

Full VA medical center (Lovell) in North Chicago
Great Lakes Naval Station offers thousands of civilian jobs
Strong veteran community (28,000+ in county)
Major pharmaceutical/healthcare job market
Lake Michigan shoreline and beaches
Metra train access to Chicago
Mix of affordable (North Chicago, Waukegan) and upscale (Lake Forest, Libertyville) communities

Cons:

Property taxes very high in nicer suburbs ($8,000-12,000/year without exemption)
North Chicago/Waukegan have higher crime rates
Expensive in desirable areas
Cold winters, lake effect snow
Traffic congestion on I-94

Best for: Veterans transitioning from Navy, seeking Great Lakes civilian jobs, needing full VA medical center access, 70%+ disabled veterans who can afford nice suburbs with tax exemption

Veteran rating: 8/10

6. Peoria (Central Illinois)

Veteran population: ~10,000 Median home price: $130,000 Property tax rate: ~2.2% Annual property tax (without exemption): $2,860 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0

VA Healthcare: Bob Michel VA Outpatient Clinic (7717 N. Orange Prairie Road) VA Medical Center: Danville (100 miles) Vet Center: Peoria Vet Center (8305 N. Allen Road)

Major employers:

Caterpillar Inc. (corporate headquarters, 12,000+ employees)
OSF HealthCare (6,000+ employees)
UnityPoint Health (4,000+ employees)
Bradley University
Illinois Central College

Pros:

Very affordable housing ($130K median)
VA clinic in city for primary care
Vet Center for counseling services
Caterpillar headquarters (veteran-friendly employer)
Strong healthcare job market
Lower cost of living (20% below national average)
Riverfront revitalization
Property tax exemption eliminates taxes for 70%+ disabled

Cons:

Limited VA specialty care (requires travel)
Smaller job market outside Caterpillar/healthcare
Cold winters
Some areas with higher crime
Population decline over past decade
Limited cultural amenities compared to larger cities

Best for: Veterans seeking Caterpillar jobs, affordable housing, VA clinic access, central Illinois location, low cost of living

Veteran rating: 7.5/10

7. Rockford (Northern Illinois)

Veteran population: ~15,000 Median home price: $145,000 Property tax rate: ~2.5% Annual property tax (without exemption): $3,625 Annual property tax (70%+ exemption): $0

VA Healthcare: No VA clinic in city (closest: VA Illiana system) Vet Center: Rockford Vet Center (7015 Rote Road)

Major employers:

UTC Aerospace Systems
Woodward, Inc.
Walmart distribution center
SwedishAmerican Health System
OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center
Rockford Public Schools

Pros:

Very affordable housing ($145K median)
Vet Center for counseling
Manufacturing jobs (aerospace, automotive)
90 minutes from Chicago (close but cheaper)
Property tax exemption valuable for 70%+ disabled
Revitalizing downtown

Cons:

No VA clinic in city (major drawback)
Higher crime rate than state average
Property taxes very high without exemption (2.5% rate)
Economic struggles, population decline
Limited veteran services locally
Cold winters

Best for: Veterans seeking cheap housing, manufacturing jobs, willing to travel for VA care, 70%+ disabled who can eliminate property taxes

Veteran rating: 6.5/10

8. Belleville / O'Fallon (Metro East - Near Scott AFB)

Veteran population: Significant (Scott AFB area) Median home price: $180,000 Property tax rate: ~1.8-2.0%

VA Healthcare: East St. Louis Vet Center, Marion VA (90 minutes), St. Louis VA (across river) Military Installation: Scott Air Force Base (10 miles)

Major employers:

Scott Air Force Base (13,000 military/civilian)
Memorial Hospital
HSHS St. Elizabeth's Hospital
Southwestern Illinois College
Defense contractors supporting Scott AFB

Pros:

Scott Air Force Base proximity (civilian jobs, commissary, medical)
Affordable housing ($180K median)
Lower property taxes than northern Illinois
Access to St. Louis amenities across river
Strong military community
VA services accessible in St. Louis
Lower cost of living

Cons:

No VA medical center in Illinois side (use St. Louis VA)
East St. Louis has very high crime (avoid)
Limited Illinois-side VA services
Some areas struggling economically
Not as much veteran-specific infrastructure

Best for: Air Force veterans, Scott AFB civilian jobs, affordable housing near military base, access to St. Louis

Veteran rating: 7.5/10 (if transitioning from Air Force or seeking Scott AFB jobs)

Tier 3: Good Options with Caveats

9. Chicago (City Proper)

VA Healthcare: Jesse Brown VA Medical Center (820 S. Damen Ave), Hines VA (western suburb) Vet Centers: Chicago Vet Center (7731 S. Halsted), Chicago Heights Vet Center

Major employers:

United Airlines (headquarters)
Boeing (Chicago office)
Numerous defense contractors
Major healthcare systems
Fortune 500 corporate headquarters
Government agencies

Pros:

Two VA medical centers nearby
Massive job market (every industry represented)
World-class culture, dining, entertainment
Excellent public transit (CTA, Metra)
Strong veteran community
Diverse neighborhoods
Illinois Veteran Grant covers tuition at UIC, Chicago State, Northeastern Illinois

Cons:

Very expensive ($355K median, much higher in nice neighborhoods)
High property taxes even with exemption
High crime in some neighborhoods
Expensive cost of living overall (15% above national average)
Brutal winters
10.25% sales tax (highest in nation)
Parking expensive/difficult
Traffic congestion

Best for: Veterans with high-paying careers, those prioritizing culture/nightlife, 70%+ disabled veterans, access to major employers, college students using IVG

Veteran rating: 7/10 (highly variable by neighborhood and financial situation)

10. Joliet (Southwest Suburb)

Veteran population: ~8,000 (Will County 25,000+) Median home price: $245,000 Property tax rate: ~2.3%

VA Healthcare: Joliet VA Clinic (2000 Glenwood Ave) VA Medical Center: Hines VA (40 minutes)

Major employers:

Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center
Silver Cross Hospital
Amazon warehouses (multiple)
Logistics and distribution companies
Harrah's Joliet Casino

Pros:

VA clinic in city
Affordable compared to northern suburbs ($245K)
Amazon and logistics sector hiring
Metra access to Chicago
Property tax exemption valuable
Two casinos (entertainment/jobs)

Cons:

Higher crime rate than neighboring suburbs
Property taxes high without exemption
Traffic congestion (I-80, I-55 junction)
Some struggling neighborhoods
Less desirable than other Chicago suburbs

Best for: Veterans in logistics/warehouse industry, needing VA clinic, moderate-cost Chicago suburb access

Veteran rating: 7/10

Cities to Approach with Caution

Decatur

Median home price: $85,000 (extremely affordable) Property tax rate: ~2.0%

Pros: Very cheap housing, low cost of living, Decatur VA Clinic

Cons: High crime rate, economic decline, population loss, limited jobs, struggling schools

Verdict: Only if you prioritize ultra-low housing costs and can handle economic challenges. The 70%+ property tax exemption is less valuable when homes are already $85K.

Veteran rating: 5/10

East St. Louis

Avoid: Very high crime rate, extreme economic distress, limited services despite proximity to Scott AFB

Veteran rating: 3/10 - Look at Belleville or O'Fallon instead

Climate Considerations

All Illinois cities face:

Cold winters (January average: 20-30°F)
Snow (20-40 inches annually, more in northern Illinois)
Hot, humid summers (July average: 75-85°F)
Tornadoes possible (Illinois is in tornado alley)

Northern Illinois: Colder, more snow, lake effect near Lake Michigan Central/Southern Illinois: Slightly milder winters, hotter summers

If you're from the South or West Coast, Illinois winters will be a significant adjustment. Budget for heating costs ($100-200/month in winter), snow removal, and winter clothing.

Cost of Living Comparison Table

City	Median Home Price	Property Tax (no exemption)	Property Tax (70%+ exemption)	Overall Cost of Living vs National
Springfield	$150,000	$3,150	$0-500	-25%
Naperville	$585,000	$13,455	$1,000-2,000	+6%
Aurora	$275,000	$6,600	$0-500	-5%
Champaign-Urbana	$185,000	$3,700	$0-500	-15%
North Chicago	$225,000	$4,500	$0-500	-8%
Peoria	$130,000	$2,860	$0	-20%
Rockford	$145,000	$3,625	$0	-18%
Belleville	$180,000	$3,240	$0-500	-22%
Chicago	$355,000	$7,100	$500-1,500	+15%
Joliet	$245,000	$5,635	$0-500	-3%

Veteran Services Comparison

City	VA Medical Center	VA Clinic	Vet Center	State Vets Home	County VSO
Springfield	No (Danville 60mi)	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Naperville	Hines (25min)	Aurora nearby	Chicago area	No	Yes (DuPage)
Aurora	Hines (30min)	Yes	No	No	Yes (Kane)
Champaign	No (Danville 45min)	No	No	No	Yes
North Chicago	Lovell (in city)	Yes	No	No	Yes (Lake)
Peoria	No (Danville 100mi)	Yes	Yes	No	Yes
Rockford	No	No	Yes	No	Yes
Belleville	No (St. Louis)	No	Yes	No	Yes
Chicago	Jesse Brown, Hines	Multiple	Yes	Chicago (new)	Yes (Cook)
Joliet	Hines (40min)	Yes	No	No	Yes (Will)

Recommendations by Situation

You're 70%+ Disabled

You're Under 50% Disabled

Best choice: Springfield, Champaign-Urbana, Peoria, Belleville Why: Lower baseline property taxes and housing costs. You'll still pay property taxes, so avoid expensive areas.

You're Transitioning from Military

You're Pursuing Free College (Illinois Veteran Grant)

You Need Intensive VA Healthcare

Best choice: Chicago area (Jesse Brown, Hines), North Chicago (Lovell) Why: Full VA medical centers with all specialties, immediate access to emergency care.

You Want Best Overall Value

Best choice: Springfield or Aurora Why: Balance of affordability, VA access, jobs, and quality of life.

You're a Dual-Income Family with Kids

Best choice: Naperville (if 70%+ disabled), Champaign-Urbana (if under 70%) Why: Naperville has best schools but expensive; Champaign offers good schools and affordability.

You're Single and Prioritizing Career

Best choice: Chicago or Naperville Why: Maximum job opportunities, career growth, networking.

You Want Lowest Cost of Living

Best choice: Peoria, Rockford, Decatur Why: Rock-bottom housing costs, but limited opportunities and amenities.

Key Takeaways

Disability rating changes everything: 70%+ disabled veterans should consider expensive suburbs because property tax exemption eliminates the major cost. Under 50% disabled should stick with affordable downstate cities.
Illinois Veteran Grant is gold: FREE tuition at public universities. If you're pursuing education, prioritize cities with good universities (Champaign, Chicago, Springfield).
VA healthcare access varies wildly: Chicago area has two medical centers, but many downstate cities require 60+ minute drives for specialty care.
Winters are brutal: Budget $1,500-2,500 extra annually for heating, snow removal, and winter needs.
Springfield offers best overall value: Affordable housing, state jobs with veteran preference, VA clinic, manageable taxes, central location.
Military installations = jobs: Great Lakes, Scott AFB, and Rock Island Arsenal offer thousands of civilian jobs with veteran preference.
Downstate is affordable, but limited: You'll save money but sacrifice opportunities, amenities, and sometimes VA access.
Apply property tax exemption immediately: Missing the March 31 deadline means paying full taxes for the year. Set a reminder.

Final Recommendation

If you're 70%+ disabled: Consider Naperville, Aurora, or nice Chicago suburbs. The property tax exemption unlocks areas that would otherwise be unaffordable.

If you're 50-69% disabled: Springfield or Champaign-Urbana offer the best balance of affordability, opportunities, and VA access.

If you're under 50% disabled: Springfield, Peoria, or Champaign-Urbana. Avoid expensive areas where high property taxes will strain your budget.

If you're transitioning from military: Choose based on your service branch - North Chicago (Navy), Belleville/O'Fallon (Air Force), Rock Island area (Army).

If you're pursuing education: Champaign-Urbana for UIUC, Chicago for UIC, Springfield for UIS. Use the Illinois Veteran Grant for FREE tuition.

Resources

Illinois Department of Veterans Affairs: (217) 782-6641 | veterans.illinois.gov
County Veterans Assistance Commissions: Find yours by county
Property Tax Exemption: Contact your county assessor by March 31 annually
Illinois Veteran Grant: (800) 899-4722 | isac.org
VA Healthcare Enrollment: 1-877-222-VETS (8387)
Illinois JobLink (Veterans): illinoisjoblink.illinois.gov

Information current as of January 2025. Housing prices, tax rates, and job markets fluctuate. Verify current data before making relocation decisions.