Pros & Cons of moving from DE to IL
Pros of Moving from Delaware to Illinois
✓ Chicago World-Class Culture: Illinois provides access to Chicago's incredible cultural attractions, world-class museums, diverse dining scene, and entertainment options that can rival or exceed what Delaware gets through proximity to Philadelphia and New York. The Art Institute, Lincoln Park Zoo, Millennium Park, and Chicago's architectural landmarks provide cultural experiences and recreational opportunities that enhance quality of life. Chicago's music scene, theater district, and cultural festivals offer year-round entertainment that Delaware cannot match independently.
✓ Central Location Advantage: Illinois puts you in America's heartland with easier access to more regions of the country compared to Delaware's East Coast corner location. Road trips to multiple destinations become more feasible, and the central location provides better access to western states while maintaining reasonable access to East Coast destinations. The geographic advantage makes travel planning more flexible and often less expensive than Delaware's more limited regional access.
✓ More Affordable Housing: Illinois, particularly outside Chicago, offers more affordable housing options than Delaware while providing access to major metropolitan amenities and job opportunities. Your Delaware income can often purchase more house, more land, or provide significant savings while maintaining access to urban culture, dining, and employment opportunities through Chicago's diverse economy.
Cons of Moving from Delaware to Illinois
✗ Brutal Winters Without Compensation: Illinois winters are as harsh as Delaware's with heavy snow, ice, and bitter cold temperatures, but without Delaware's advantage of easy access to warmer vacation destinations or year-round East Coast cultural activities. The cold season is longer and more severe, requiring significant heating costs, winter clothing expenses, and lifestyle adjustments. Unlike Delaware's proximity to warmer Mid-Atlantic regions, Illinois winters can feel more isolating and challenging.
✗ High Property Taxes: Illinois has some of America's highest property taxes, often exceeding Delaware's already significant tax burden and potentially eliminating the housing cost savings that initially attract Delaware residents. The property tax burden can be crushing, particularly in desirable suburban areas with good schools, and may continue rising to fund pension obligations and municipal services. The tax burden can significantly impact long-term financial planning and homeownership costs.
✗ Economic and Political Challenges: Illinois faces ongoing budget problems, pension crises, and political corruption issues that create uncertainty about future tax increases, service reductions, and economic stability. Delaware's more stable political and economic environment provides predictability that Illinois cannot guarantee, potentially affecting property values, tax burdens, and quality of government services over time.
