20 Worst Towns for Retirees in Illinois

1. Cairo, Illinois

Cairo sits at the confluence of the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers, a location that once promised growth. Despite its historical significance, the town has seen better days. Its population has been declining steadily due to lack of jobs and services.

Today, Cairo features many abandoned buildings, a testimony to its fading past. Though picturesque in its decay, it’s far from ideal for retirees seeking community and convenience.

Residents often have to travel long distances for healthcare and daily necessities, a significant drawback for those with limited mobility.

2. Harvey, Illinois

Once a booming manufacturing hub, Harvey has faced economic troubles following the decline of industry. This has affected local infrastructure and quality of life.

Public services are underfunded, and the area shows signs of neglect. Streets and public areas are often not well-maintained, posing mobility issues for older residents.

The city struggles with high crime rates, which is a significant concern for those considering safety in their retirement years.

3. Dolton, Illinois

Dolton is located close to Chicago, but don’t let its proximity to the big city fool you. The town suffers from a lack of local amenities and services crucial for retirees, such as quality healthcare and active community centers.

While housing is relatively affordable, the low cost of living comes with the price of higher crime rates and fewer opportunities for social engagement.

Additionally, the area has experienced political instability, which has hindered its development and upkeep.

4. Centreville, Illinois

Centreville is one of the poorest towns in Illinois, with a poverty rate significantly higher than the national average. This economic situation affects the quality of life for its residents.

The town struggles with access to good healthcare and transportation, critical for elderly people who may not be driving anymore.

Moreover, the local government faces challenges in providing services that are often taken for granted in more affluent areas, such as regular public transportation and well-maintained public spaces.

5. Mount Vernon, Illinois

Mount Vernon, despite its rich history and charm, faces issues that place it on this list. The city has struggled with job opportunities since the decline of local industries, impacting the local economy and community life.

Its public transportation options are limited, which can be a problem for retirees who rely on these services to maintain independence.

Additionally, the healthcare services in Mount Vernon are not as robust as in other cities, with residents often needing to travel for more specialized care.

6. Kankakee, Illinois

Kankakee is known for its beautiful riverfront views, but the city faces significant challenges. The local economy has not fully recovered from past economic downturns, which affects the availability of local amenities and services.

Retirees looking for a vibrant community might find Kankakee lacking in activities and social opportunities, which are crucial for a fulfilling retirement.

Crime rates are also a concern, as they are higher than in many other parts of the state.

7. Danville, Illinois

Danville’s history is rich with industrial growth, but like many such towns, it has faced a decline. The city struggles with unemployment, which impacts local businesses and services.

Educational and recreational opportunities for retirees are limited, and the healthcare facilities in the area are not enough to meet the needs of an aging population.

This has led to a decrease in population as residents move away in search of better opportunities and services.

8. Rockford, Illinois

Rockford is one of the largest cities in Illinois, but it faces its own unique challenges. While it offers some cultural and recreational activities, it struggles with high crime rates and economic instability.

The healthcare system, while larger than in smaller towns, still struggles to meet the demands of its population, particularly the elderly.

The cost of living is relatively low, but the benefits are offset by the safety and economic concerns that might affect retirees.

9. Marion, Illinois

Marion serves as a retail hub for the surrounding area, but that’s not enough to make it a great place for retirees. The town lacks sufficient healthcare facilities, a major concern for those in their retirement years.

While there are some local amenities and services, they do not adequately cater to the needs of an older, retired population.

Additionally, the local economy is not very diversified, relying heavily on retail which does not provide substantial support for retirees.

10. Decatur, Illinois

Decatur has faced significant industrial decline, which has impacted its economy and, subsequently, its attractiveness as a retirement destination. The city’s infrastructure is aging, and there is a need for more modern facilities and services.

While it offers some cultural attractions, they are not enough to offset the other challenges faced by the city, such as high unemployment rates and limited healthcare options.

These factors make Decatur a less desirable location for those looking to enjoy their retirement years in peace and comfort.

11. Peoria, Illinois

Peoria was once known for its manufacturing prowess, but has struggled to transition to a more modern economy. This has led to job losses and reduced public services, which directly affects the living standards of retirees.

The city’s crime rate is higher than the national average, which can be a significant deterrent for those looking for a safe retirement environment.

Additionally, the healthcare options in Peoria are limited, forcing residents to travel for more comprehensive care.

12. East St. Louis, Illinois

East St. Louis struggles with some of the highest crime rates in the nation, making it an unappealing option for retirees looking for a peaceful place to settle.

The city also faces economic difficulties, with high unemployment rates affecting the community and its ability to provide adequate public services.

Infrastructure is in poor condition, and there are few recreational or social activities geared towards older adults.

13. Cicero, Illinois

Cicero has experienced significant demographic shifts that have changed the community and its needs. Unfortunately, these changes have not always been positive, leading to social and economic instability.

Public services, including those for the elderly, are often overstretched, and there are few amenities that cater specifically to retirees.

Additionally, Cicero’s proximity to Chicago means higher living costs, which can be a burden on fixed retirement incomes.

14. Alton, Illinois

Alton is known for its historic charm, but the city has faced economic challenges that have impacted its desirability as a retirement destination.

The cost of living is relatively high compared to the quality of services provided. Public transportation options are limited, which can be a significant issue for retirees without personal transportation.

Healthcare services are not comprehensive, requiring residents to seek major medical treatments in neighboring cities.

15. Belleville, Illinois

Belleville has seen better days, with parts of the town showing signs of neglect and decay. While there are areas that still retain their suburban charm, overall, the town lacks the infrastructure needed to support a thriving retiree community.

Additionally, Belleville has been affected by crime, particularly in its more neglected areas, which poses safety concerns for the elderly.

The local economy is not very robust, which affects the availability of local services and amenities.

16. Granite City, Illinois

Granite City has been heavily impacted by the decline in industrial jobs, which has led to a stagnant local economy and limited job opportunities for younger family members.

While housing is affordable, the lack of economic vitality means there are fewer amenities and services available for retirees, such as entertainment and healthcare facilities.

The city also has environmental issues due to its industrial past, which could impact health and quality of life.

17. Springfield, Illinois

As the state capital, Springfield has many cultural and historical sites, but it faces challenges like any other city. The local government is often focused on state-level issues, sometimes at the expense of local needs, including those of retirees.

While there are healthcare facilities available, the quality of care can vary, and some specialized services require travel to larger cities.

Additionally, Springfield’s property taxes are among the highest in the state, which can be a burden for retirees on a fixed income.

18. Joliet, Illinois

Joliet is a larger city with a range of amenities, but it struggles with issues that can detract from its appeal to retirees. The city has seen growth, but this has also brought traffic congestion and some urban sprawl, which can impact quality of life.

Crime rates in certain areas are concerning, and while there are healthcare facilities, access to them can be problematic due to the traffic issues.

Additionally, the cost of living has been rising, which may strain retirement budgets.

19. DeKalb, Illinois

DeKalb is home to Northern Illinois University, which brings a youthful energy but does not always cater to the needs of retirees. The focus on the university means that many services are geared towards students rather than older residents.

Public transportation is limited, which can be a significant issue for those who no longer drive.

The town also has a relatively high cost of living compared to what it offers in terms of retiree-specific amenities and services.

20. Bloomington, Illinois

Bloomington offers several amenities but faces challenges like many mid-sized cities. The cost of healthcare is higher than national averages, and while there are facilities available, accessing specialized care often involves traveling to larger urban centers.

The city’s economy is relatively stable, but job opportunities for the community at large are not growing at a pace that supports a robust retiree community.

Additionally, the public transportation system does not fully meet the needs of those without personal vehicles.