List of Cities in Illinois Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 8, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Illinois has around 1,300 incorporated cities and towns. The state capital is Springfield, but the largest city by far is Chicago, which is the third-largest city in the U.S. Other significant cities include Aurora, Naperville, Joliet, Rockford, Elgin, Peoria, Champaign, Waukegan, and Cicero. Chicago is a major hub for finance, culture, and industry, while the rest of the state’s cities and towns range from industrial centers like Peoria to college towns like Champaign. Illinois has a diverse urban and rural balance, with large cities in the northern part of the state and more rural areas in the south.

1. Chicago

City Facts

Population: 2,746,388 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 312, 773, 872
Zip Codes: 60601–60706, 60712, 60827
County: Cook County

Geography and History

Chicago, located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, is the largest city in Illinois and the third-largest in the U.S. The city’s geography is defined by its lakefront, flat plains, and river systems, including the Chicago River. Founded in 1833, Chicago quickly became a hub for transportation and industry, especially after the construction of the Illinois & Michigan Canal and later the railroads. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 devastated the city, but Chicago rebounded rapidly, becoming a center for finance, manufacturing, and trade. The city’s architecture, such as the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), helped define the modern skyscraper. Today, Chicago is known for its diverse population, cultural institutions, and influential history in politics, music (especially blues and jazz), and industry.

Colleges and Universities

University of Chicago: A prestigious private research university known for its rigorous academic programs in economics, law, and the sciences. UChicago is home to multiple Nobel laureates and is a global leader in research.
Northwestern University (Evanston Campus): Located just outside of Chicago, Northwestern offers top-ranked programs in journalism, business, and law, and attracts students from around the world.
DePaul University: The largest Catholic university in the U.S., DePaul is known for its programs in business, law, and liberal arts, with its main campuses located in the heart of Chicago.
Loyola University Chicago: A private Jesuit university with strong programs in law, business, and the health sciences, with its main campus located along the Lake Michigan shoreline.
Illinois Institute of Technology (IIT): A tech-focused university offering programs in engineering, architecture, and computer science, known for its innovative research and urban campus.

Major Landmarks

Chicago is home to numerous iconic landmarks, including Millennium Park, which features the famous Cloud Gate (or “The Bean”) sculpture. Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination with attractions like the Centennial Wheel and museums. The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., housing famous works like American Gothic and A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. The Willis Tower Skydeck offers panoramic views from one of the tallest buildings in the world. Wrigley Field, home to the Chicago Cubs, is a historic baseball stadium in the Wrigleyville neighborhood. Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry and Field Museum are major cultural institutions. Magnificent Mile offers high-end shopping along Michigan Avenue, while Chicago’s lakefront provides miles of parks, beaches, and recreational spaces.

2. Aurora

City Facts

Population: 180,542 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 630, 331
Zip Codes: 60502–60507, 60568, 60572, 60598
County: Kane, DuPage, Will, and Kendall Counties

Geography and History

Aurora, located about 40 miles west of Chicago, lies along the Fox River. The city’s landscape includes riverfront parks and suburban developments. Founded in 1837, Aurora was one of the first cities in the U.S. to adopt electric street lighting, earning it the nickname “City of Lights.” Aurora grew rapidly in the 19th century as a manufacturing and transportation hub, benefiting from its location along the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad. The city’s downtown area features historic buildings, including the Paramount Theatre and Leland Tower, reflecting its early prosperity. Today, Aurora is known for its diverse population and strong connections to Chicago’s metropolitan economy.

Colleges and Universities

Aurora University: A private university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, nursing, and education. The university is known for its close-knit community and commitment to service learning.
Waubonsee Community College: Serving the Aurora area, Waubonsee offers associate degrees and certificates in fields such as healthcare, business, and information technology, with campuses throughout the western suburbs.
University of Illinois (Chicago Campus): Many Aurora residents commute to UIC, which offers programs in fields like medicine, engineering, and business.
Northern Illinois University (DeKalb, nearby): Although located outside Aurora, NIU attracts students from the area with its broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, particularly in education, business, and engineering.
Benedictine University (nearby Lisle): A Catholic institution offering degrees in business, health sciences, and liberal arts, serving many Aurora-area students seeking a private education.

Major Landmarks

Aurora features several notable landmarks, including the Paramount Theatre, a restored 1930s Art Deco theater that hosts Broadway shows, concerts, and other performances. Phillips Park Zoo is a popular family destination that houses native and exotic animals. The Aurora Regional Fire Museum celebrates the city’s firefighting history with interactive exhibits. SciTech Hands-On Museum offers educational exhibits on science and technology. The Fox River Trail provides scenic walking and biking paths along the river, connecting several parks and nature reserves. Downtown Aurora is home to the historic Leland Tower, once the tallest building in Illinois outside Chicago. Hollywood Casino Aurora adds to the city’s entertainment options along the riverfront.

3. Naperville

City Facts

Population: 149,540 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 630, 331
Zip Codes: 60540–60567
County: DuPage and Will Counties

Geography and History

Naperville is a western suburb of Chicago, located along the DuPage River. It is known for its tree-lined streets, family-friendly atmosphere, and affluent neighborhoods. Founded in 1831 by Joseph Naper, Naperville grew as a quiet farming town but saw major suburban expansion in the 20th century as it became part of the Chicago metropolitan area. Today, Naperville is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and thriving downtown area, featuring a riverwalk, shopping, and dining. The city has earned national recognition as one of the best places to live in the U.S. due to its amenities and strong local economy.

Colleges and Universities

North Central College: A private liberal arts college located in downtown Naperville, North Central offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and the arts. The college is known for its intimate campus and strong focus on student success.
College of DuPage (nearby Glen Ellyn): One of the largest community colleges in the U.S., offering associate degrees and certificates in fields such as healthcare, business, and technology. Many Naperville residents attend COD for its broad educational offerings.
Benedictine University (nearby Lisle): This private Catholic university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields like business, health sciences, and education, attracting students from Naperville and surrounding areas.
DeVry University (nearby Downers Grove): A private institution known for its career-focused programs in business, technology, and healthcare management, drawing students from the Naperville area.
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): Many Naperville residents commute to UIC’s urban campus for its highly ranked programs in healthcare, engineering, and law.

Major Landmarks

Naperville’s most famous landmark is the Naperville Riverwalk, a scenic path along the DuPage River that features fountains, bridges, and recreational areas. Centennial Beach is a popular swimming area created from an old stone quarry, attracting families during the summer. Naper Settlement is a living history museum that preserves the city’s pioneer heritage with historic buildings and interactive exhibits. Millennium Carillon, a 160-foot-tall bell tower, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. DuPage Children’s Museum provides interactive learning experiences for young children. Springbrook Prairie Forest Preserve is a large natural area ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and picnicking, while Knoch Knolls Nature Center offers environmental education and outdoor activities.

4. Joliet

City Facts

Population: 150,362 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 815, 779
Zip Codes: 60403–60436
County: Will and Kendall Counties

Geography and History

Joliet is located about 40 miles southwest of Chicago, along the Des Plaines River. The city’s geography is shaped by its riverfront and limestone quarries, which played a key role in its industrial history. Founded in 1833, Joliet grew rapidly as a transportation and industrial hub due to its proximity to the Illinois & Michigan Canal and the railroads. The city’s limestone was used in the construction of iconic buildings, including the Chicago Water Tower. Throughout the 20th century, Joliet’s economy diversified to include manufacturing, steel production, and retail. Today, it is a growing suburban city with a mix of historic and modern attractions.

Colleges and Universities

University of St. Francis: A private Catholic university offering undergraduate and graduate programs in nursing, education, business, and the arts. The university is known for its small class sizes and strong focus on community service.
Joliet Junior College: The nation’s first public community college, offering associate degrees and certificates in areas such as culinary arts, healthcare, business, and technology. JJC serves as a major educational institution for students from Joliet and surrounding areas.
Lewis University (nearby Romeoville): A private Catholic university offering programs in aviation, business, education, and nursing. Many Joliet residents attend Lewis University for its highly regarded programs and close proximity.
Governors State University (nearby University Park): Located just south of Joliet, GSU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, public administration, and the health sciences.
University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC): Many Joliet residents commute to UIC for its professional and graduate programs in healthcare, law, and engineering.

Major Landmarks

Joliet’s most famous landmarks include the Rialto Square Theatre, a beautifully restored 1920s venue that hosts concerts, plays, and special events. Chicagoland Speedway is a major NASCAR track that draws thousands of racing fans each year. Joliet Iron Works Historic Site preserves the ruins of the city’s industrial past, offering walking tours and educational programs. The Joliet Area Historical Museum showcases the city’s rich history, including its role in the development of the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Harrah’s Joliet Casino is a popular entertainment destination along the riverfront. The Old Joliet Prison, once a functioning penitentiary, now offers tours and is a popular filming location for movies and TV shows.

5. Rockford

City Facts

Population: 148,655 (2023 estimate)
Area Code: 815, 779
Zip Codes: 61101–61110
County: Winnebago County

Geography and History

Rockford is located in northern Illinois, along the Rock River. Known as the “Forest City” for its many parks and tree-lined streets, Rockford features a mix of urban and natural landscapes. Founded in 1834, the city quickly developed as an industrial center, particularly in the manufacturing of furniture and machinery. During the 20th century, Rockford became one of the leading manufacturing hubs in the Midwest, producing tools, heavy machinery, and aerospace components. Today, Rockford is a regional center for healthcare, education, and manufacturing, with a focus on revitalizing its downtown and riverfront areas.

Colleges and Universities

Rockford University: A private liberal arts college offering programs in business, education, nursing, and the humanities. Rockford University is known for its emphasis on student engagement and community service.
Northern Illinois University (Rockford Campus): This regional campus offers graduate programs in business, education, and health sciences, serving students who prefer to stay in the Rockford area.
Rock Valley College: A public community college offering associate degrees and certificates in fields such as healthcare, technology, and trades. Rock Valley College plays a key role in workforce development in the region.
Saint Anthony College of Nursing: A specialized institution offering nursing degrees, serving the growing healthcare needs of the Rockford area.
University of Illinois College of Medicine (Rockford Campus): Provides medical education and training for students in the healthcare field, contributing to the area’s medical workforce.

List of Cities in Illinois Alphabetically

1. Chicago

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Aurora

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Naperville

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. Joliet

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Rockford

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

List of All Cities and Towns in Illinois in Alphabetical Order

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