Illinois Real Estate - Chicago and Rural Areas
Illinois can be divided into Chicago and rural areas. Alas, the
same can be said for Illinois real estate prices.
Illinois
The birth home of President Lincoln, Illinois is a state with
two identities. Chicago is an overwhelming presence and
essentially a state unto itself. The rest of Illinois can be
classified as much more rural with the down home atmosphere such
places take on. This presents you with a unique living
opportunity as you can choose to live in low stress towns and
venture into impressive Chicago on weekends or for word. On the
other hand, you can live in Chicago and take tranquil weekends
outside of the bustling city. In short, Illinois offers a little
something for everyone.
Chicago
Known as the "Windy City," Chicago really need no introduction.
Gothic architecture. The home of the blues. Da' Bears. Sears
Tower. John Hancock Building. Water Tower Place. Navy Pier.
Shedd Aquarium. Frank Lloyd Wright. The Wrigley Building.
Chicago Botanical Gardens. Wrigley Field. The list just goes on
and on when talking about Chicago and I haven't even mentioned
the food. Chicago is simply a world unto itself.
Food is a central theme to Chicago. If you're looking to stay
thin, good luck. The legendary eating establishments are to
numerous to list, but a good way to introduce yourself to the
delicious delicacies of Chicago is the Taste of Chicago Festival
at Grant Park in late June. 10 pounds. No, maybe 20 pounds.
That's what you'll gain at this slice of eating heaven attended
by thousands of people.
The third most populated city in the country, Chicago is
immensely impressive. Despite the number of people, you'll find
getting around fairly simply due to excellent public
transportation and excellent planning. Little shops and ethnic
neighborhoods dominate the city and it is really a place to just
get out and explore. A major economic power, Chicago is home to
numerous major corporations and typically has a strong job
market.
If sports are your thing, welcome to nirvana. Chicago residents
are mad about Da' Bears, Bulls and Blackhawks. For baseball,
there is the lovable loser Cubs and the World Champion White
Sox. For the non-professional, recreation leagues throughout the
city contribute to a thriving sports scene.
If you're looking for the big city life, Chicago should be near
the top of the list. You could spend years exploring the city
and still be missing out on gems.
Springfield
The state capital, Springfield is known best as the hometown of
President Abe Lincoln. You'll find all types of attractions
related to President Lincoln including his home, burial location
and so on. Roughly 200 miles south of Chicago, Springfield is a
quiet town with a relaxed atmosphere. When you think of the
Midwest, this is the place. The town has plenty of open areas
and can best be described as a fairly basic town. Outside of it,
you'll find beautiful lakes and prairies giving rise to lots of
outdoor activities.
Illinois Real Estate
Illinois real estate prices range dramatically depending upon
the location. At the low end of the scale, you'll find homes in
Springfield costing roughly $200,000 while Chicago real estate
averages in the $800,000. The average for Chicago homes is
deceiving as prices are highly dependent upon the particular
part of town you are in.
Overall, Illinois real estate has appreciated at a rather
disappointing 9.5 percent in 2005. These numbers, however, can
be misleading since the rate is dependent on the specific
location.