Illinois is on pace to lose a seat in Congress based on new census data. International immigration and interstate migration are driving those projections.
Illinois in the top ten for largest racial wealth gaps. Disparities in income, education and poverty drive the state’s racial wealth gap.
Fewer Illinoisans moved out in 2025, according to United Van Lines. Illinois was No. 2 for departures in 2024 and No. 9 last year.
Chicago employment situation improves after hitting lowest level since 2009 in December 2025.
Illinois placed 38th nationally for social mobility. Its rank was pulled down by economic problems and corruption in its legal system.
Quincy, Illinois, may reduce parking minimums, allow duplexes and update zoning rules to reduce the housing shortage and improve affordability.
Illinois’ unemployment continued a long-term trend of remaining higher than the national rate as 2025 ends with lost jobs as the nation gained.
Subsidies and rent control will make Illinois’ housing shortage worse. Lawmakers should focus on how they can boost supply.
Illinois’ population grew by 16,108 in 2025 thanks to an influx of people migrating from other countries. But Illinoisans moving away offset most of that gain.
The Chicago area climbed up two spots as a technology hub, surpassing Silicon Valley. Government can foster that growth.
Illinois’ strong colleges and workforce training help reduce unemployment and close skill gaps, ranking No. 1 in the Midwest and No. 3 nationally.
Illinois saw strong economic growth in the third quarter of 2025, largely tracking national trends.