Illinois, midwestern state in the N central United States. It is bordered by Lake Michigan and Indiana (E); Kentucky, across the Ohio R. (SE); Missouri and Iowa, across the Mississippi R. (W); and Wisconsin (N). Rich land, adequate rainfall (32–36 in./81–91 cm annually), and a long growing season make Illinois an important agricultural state. It consistently ranks among the top states in the production of corn and soybeans. Hogs and cattle are also principal sources of farm income. Other major crops include hay, wheat, and sorghum. Beneath the fertile topsoil lies mineral wealth, including fluorspar, bituminous coal, and oil; Illinois ranks high among the states in the production of coal, and its reserves are greater than any other state east of the Rocky Mts. Its agricultural and mineral resources, along with its excellent lines of communication and transportation, made Illinois industrial; by 1880 income from industry was almost double that from agriculture. At the end of the 18th cent. the Illinois, Sac, Fox, and other Native American groups were living in the river forests, where many centuries before them the prehistoric Mound Builders had dwelt. French explorers and missionaries came to the region early. Father Marquette and Louis Jolliet, on their return from a trip down the Mississippi, paddled up the Illinois River in 1673, and two years later Marquette returned to establish a mission in the Illinois country. In 1679 the French explorer Robert Cavelier, sieur de La Salle, went from Lake Michigan to the Illinois, where he founded (1680) Fort Creve Coeur and with his lieutenant, Henri de Tonti, completed (1682–83) Fort St. Louis on Starved Rock cliff. French occupation of the area was sparse, but the settlements of Cahokia and Kaskaskia achieved a minor importance in the 18th cent., and the area was valued for fur trading.

Illinois is home to the worlds second busiest airport. It also has one of the most advanced telecommunications infrastructures in the nation, is the nations leader in generating nuclear power, and has almost 1/8 of the total U.S. reserves of coal. From the urban Chicago region to the rolling hills and small communities, you will be able to find the right apartment to rent or house to buy.

Illinois has a fascinating history and many historic sites. Abraham Lincolns home and final resting place is in Springfield. The Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum is the largest presidential museum in the nation. Illinois is recognized as the starting point for the expedition of famed explorers Lewis and Clark that forever changed the course of American history. Route 66 in Illinois takes travelers through the heart of the cities and towns that define the real America. Illinois is a great place to call home for apartment renters or home buyers.

Beautiful lakes offer boating, fishing and swimming. Golfing, hiking and hunting are also activities enjoyed in the state. Sports fans enjoy a wide array of college and professional sports. Six Flags Great America theme park, museums, symphonies, and state parks are many attractions to enjoy. As you are exploring Illinois attractions you might want to also check out the Illinois apartments for rent.

Illinois offers diverse, high quality educational opportunities. You will also find diverse apartment rentals available in Illinois. Illinois has 48 community colleges, and ranks 5th in the nation in the number of institutions of higher education. There are 9 public universities, 99 not-for-profit colleges, and has two of the top ten business schools in the nation. Champaign County is home to the University of Illinois and its many landmarks.