Peoria, Illinois, nestled along the picturesque Illinois River, is the oldest European settlement in the state, officially incorporated as a city in 1845. Historically recognized as a bustling manufacturing hub, it has evolved into a diverse regional center for healthcare, education, and finance while maintaining its distinctive Midwestern character. People are frequently drawn to Peoria for its unique blend of urban amenities, rich cultural heritage, and a small-town community feel that offers exceptional breathing room compared to major metropolitan centers. Today, the city serves as a vibrant cultural anchor for Central Illinois, balancing its industrial roots with modern revitalization efforts in its downtown and riverfront districts.
Illinois, known as the "Prairie State," offers a diverse character ranging from the bustling metropolis of Chicago to expansive farmlands. Its economy is among the largest and most diversified in the U.S., with major industries including advanced manufacturing, agriculture and food processing, life sciences, technology, and transportation and logistics. While the cost of living statewide is generally considered moderate, housing costs in Chicago can be higher than the national average. Illinois experiences all four seasons, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, and is susceptible to severe storms and tornadoes, particularly in spring. Residents enjoy a lifestyle that balances world-class cultural amenities and career opportunities with challenges such as high taxes and urban congestion.
How this 61/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 62 / 100 | 62.0 | 30% | 18.6 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 84.0 | 63.8 | 25% | 15.9 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $58,500 Income needed to live here: $45,000 Unemployment rate: 4.5% | 65.6 | 20% | 13.1 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 1.1% | 42.0 | 15% | 6.3 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 60.5 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in Peoria is notably lower than the national average, making it a highly attractive destination for families, young professionals, and retirees seeking financial breathing room. Housing costs, in particular, remain well below national medians, allowing residents to purchase spacious properties for a fraction of what they would pay in coastal or primary Midwestern metro areas. Everyday expenses such as utilities, groceries, and transportation also track below the national baseline, contributing to an overall high purchasing power for the local workforce. This favorable economic climate ensures that residents can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without the intense financial pressures typical of larger U.S. cities.
Income
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Peoria's economy is anchored by heavy machinery manufacturing, healthcare, and education, with global corporate giant Caterpillar historically maintaining a massive presence in the region. In addition to industrial manufacturing, major healthcare systems like OSF HealthCare and UnityPoint Health serve as primary regional employers, driving steady job growth and professional opportunities in medical sciences. The city also fosters a growing ecosystem for small businesses, technology startups, and remote workers who appreciate the low overhead and central geographic location. While the local economy experienced historical shifts due to corporate restructuring, it has successfully diversified into a resilient service and innovation-oriented marketplace.
The average salary in Peoria is $62,500 per year. You would need approximately $45,000 to live comfortably.
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Getting around Peoria is primarily centered around automobile transit, with an efficient network of highways and bridges—including Interstate 74—connecting the city to Bloomington-Normal, Chicago, and St. Louis. CityLink provides public bus transit services across the metropolitan area, catering to commuters and students navigating the urban core. While walkability is high in specific pockets like downtown and the warehouse district, most residents rely on cars for daily errands and commuting. The General Wayne A. Downing Peoria International Airport further enhances regional connectivity, offering direct flights to several major U.S. hubs.
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Senior Care in Peoria
40 assisted living, nursing & memory care facilities in Peoria.
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St. Sharbel Village II
Peoria, IL
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Proctor Place Senior Living
Peoria, IL
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Central Illinois Agency On Aging, Inc.
Peoria, IL
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OSF Richard L. Owens Hospice Home
Peoria, IL
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Transitions Hospice Peoria
Peoria, IL
Assisted Living
Heartis Village of Peoria
Peoria, IL
Senior Care
Bickford of Peoria
Peoria, IL
Assisted Living
Villas of Holly Brook and Reflections Bellevue, Illinois
Peoria, IL
Assisted Living
St. Francis Woods
Peoria, IL
Senior Care
St. Sharbel Village Phase I
Peoria, IL
Senior Care
St. Sharbel Village Phase II
Peoria, IL
Assisted Living
Grand View Alzheimer's Special Care Center
Peoria, IL
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