USA Illinois | North America

Illinois is located in the Midwestern United States, bordering Wisconsin to the north, Indiana to the east, Kentucky to the southeast, Missouri to the west, and Iowa to the northwest. The state’s primary economic feature is its status as a leading global transport hub and a top producer of corn and soybeans, while its geography is defined by the expansive central prairies and its northeastern shoreline on Lake Michigan. The capital city is Springfield.

History & Culture

Illinois was admitted to the Union in 1818 as the 21st state, following its tenure as part of the Northwest Territory. The state’s political history is characterized by its role as a pivotal Union state during the Civil War-earning the moniker "Land of Lincoln"-and its later development as an industrial and progressive legislative center. Primary religious affiliations are Christianity (71%), with a significant Roman Catholic and Protestant presence. Independence Day (July 4) is the most significant national holiday. Social etiquette emphasizes Midwestern reserve, hospitality, and a standardized 18–25% tipping expectation for service.

Language & Communication

The official language is English. English proficiency is high across all regions. Major regional dialects include Inland Northern (prevalent in Chicago and the north) and Midland and Southern dialects (predominant in central and southern Illinois). Spanish is the most common secondary language, spoken by approximately 13% of the population.

Population & Economy

The population is approximately 12.5 million, with 88% urban and 12% rural distribution. Top three export commodities are chemicals, machinery, and computer/electronic products. GDP per capita is approximately $82,000 USD. Manufacturing, professional services, and agriculture are the primary industries driving the labor market.

Visa & Entry Policy

Citizens of most EU nations and the UK require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for stays up to 90 days under the Visa Waiver Program. Other international travelers generally require a B1/B2 visa. There is no Visa on Arrival system. Customs enforcement at O'Hare International Airport is strict regarding the importation of agricultural products to prevent ecological contamination.

Currency & Payment Systems

The currency is the United States Dollar (USD). Card payments and mobile wallets (Apple/Google Pay) are universal in urban and suburban areas. Cash is primarily used for small tips, informal markets, or in smaller downstate towns. ATMs are ubiquitous in cities and are frequently found in convenience store chains like 7-Eleven.

National Transport Grid

Intercity travel is facilitated by the Interstate Highway System (notably I-55, I-80, and I-90). Amtrak provides reliable rail service along four major corridors, connecting 32 stations across the state, including the high-speed line between Chicago and St. Louis. Domestic aviation is anchored by O'Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW) airports. Long-distance buses are operated by Greyhound, Burlington Trailways, and Peoria Charter.

Digital Infrastructure

Major mobile network providers are AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile. 5G coverage is comprehensive in the Chicago metropolitan area and along major transit corridors. 4G LTE is the standard in rural central and southern Illinois, with high reliability across the flat prairie terrain.

Climate & Seasonality

The climate is predominantly humid continental, with hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. The southern portion of the state transitions into a humid subtropical climate. May and June are the wettest months, and peak tornado activity occurs between April and June.

Health & Safety

No specific vaccinations are mandatory for entry. Environmental risks include severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and extreme winter cold/blizzards. The emergency number for Police, Ambulance, and Fire is 911.

Top 3 Major Regions & Cities

Chicago Metropolitan Area (Global Commerce/Culture): Hub city is Chicago.

Central Prairies (Government/Agriculture): Hub city is Springfield.

Metro East (Industrial/Logistics): Hub city is East St. Louis.

Local Cost Index

1L Water: $2.50 USD

1 Domestic Beer: $7.00 USD

1 Sim Card (10GB Data Plan): $40.00 USD

Facts & Legends

The Piasa Bird is a local legend from Alton, Illinois, depicting a dragon-like creature with wings and horns that allegedly terrorized the indigenous Illiniwek people; a large-scale painting of the creature was originally documented by French explorers Marquette and Joliet on the limestone bluffs of the Mississippi River in 1673.