Illinois

The 21st state has a diverse collection of communities, which range from vibrant cities to Victorian-era villages, and has a population of 12,653,544.

The capital city of Illinois is Springfield, which has a population of 111,454 people and is the former home of Abraham Lincoln, has a very friendly, small-town feel, but, being the capital, has the sophistication of a much bigger city.

An example of a Victorian village can be found in Seneca and Marseilles – both towns are located in the Illinois River Valley. Full of small town charm and friendly people, a short walk to the park is certain to result in a conversation with one of the town's folk.

The capital city of Illinois may be Springfield, but, in my opinion, the real hub of the state is 199 miles east along the famous Route 66. It's the Home of the Blues and the birthplace of the Skyscraper: Chicago. Located on the southwest shore of Lake Michigan, its nine county metropolitan area is home to 2,896,016 (based on the 2000 census) which is two-thirds of the whole state's population.

Chicago has something for everyone: great music, a fantastic beach, a well-known symphony orchestra, and renowned art galleries, museums, and entertainment centers. The city has some of the most impressive and well-known architecture in North America including works by Frank Lloyd Wright and Mies van der Rohe: the John Hancock Tower and the world's tallest building, the Sears Tower. Chicago is also home to five major league sports teams: the Blackhawks (hockey), the Bulls (basketball), the Bears (football), the Cubs and the White Sox (both baseball). There is always something to see or do!

Chicago, isn't only about culture and entertainment (or organized crime and prohibition). The windy city is also the economic center of Illinois and the mid-west and is home to the Chicago Stock Exchange and the Chicago Mercantile Exchange. Chicago is also the rail and air travel hub of the US – O'Hare International Airport handles more passengers than any other airport in the world.

Whether for life, work, education, culture, entertainment, or business, Illinois is full of opportunity.

See our 517 Jobs in Illinois