Illinois’ credit rating spirals downward while residents flee to surrounding states with stronger economies and lower taxes.

High property taxes in the Metro East region are fueling out-migration from the area.

The corporate tax reforms under President Donald Trump’s proposed tax plan could strengthen Illinois’ position as a home for businesses, but the state’s uncompetitive income, property and death tax policies would put its residents at an even greater disadvantage with respect to other states if the president’s plan passes.

Residents of Chicago’s collar counties pay the highest property taxes in the state – and some of the highest in the country.