For many people, walkability is a key factor when choosing a place to live. Whether it’s the ease of accessing work, schools, restaurants, or parks without needing a car, walkable cities provide a lifestyle of convenience, community, and environmental consciousness. If you’re exploring relocation options or simply curious about urban planning trends, knowing the most walkable cities in Illinois can help you make an informed decision. This guide explores top destinations across the Prairie State where pedestrians thrive, public transportation complements foot traffic, and neighborhoods are built with accessibility in mind.
Why Walkability Matters
Quality of Life
Walkable cities often rank higher in terms of health, happiness, and social cohesion. When daily necessities are within a short stroll, residents tend to be more physically active and engaged in their communities.
Environmental and Economic Benefits
Less reliance on cars means fewer carbon emissions, lower transportation costs, and improved air quality. Walkability also contributes to vibrant local economies by increasing foot traffic for small businesses.
Real Estate Value
Homes in walkable neighborhoods often command higher prices and hold their value better, even in shifting markets. Walk Score—a popular index measuring walkability—plays a growing role in property assessments.
1. Chicago
Walk Score: 77 (Very Walkable)
As Illinois’ largest city, Chicago tops the list thanks to its extensive public transit system, dense urban neighborhoods, and pedestrian-friendly streets. Key walkable areas include:
- The Loop: Ideal for business professionals and cultural enthusiasts.
- River North: Trendy galleries, dining, and nightlife.
- Lincoln Park: Tree-lined streets, shopping, and access to the lakefront.
Public Transit: The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) provides buses and trains that complement walkability, especially in downtown and North Side neighborhoods.
2. Evanston
Walk Score: 75 (Very Walkable)
Located just north of Chicago, Evanston is a college town home to Northwestern University and known for its compact, walkable layout.
- Downtown Evanston: A hub of coffee shops, bookstores, and local eateries.
- Northwestern Campus: Easily accessible on foot or bike.
Bonus: Access to CTA Purple Line and Metra trains makes commuting easy.
3. Oak Park
Walk Score: 70 (Very Walkable)
Just west of Chicago, Oak Park blends historic charm with modern accessibility. The city is home to Frank Lloyd Wright architecture and is a model for sustainable urban planning.
- Downtown Oak Park: Filled with boutiques, cafes, and parks.
- Green Line Access: Direct connection to Chicago.
Noteworthy: Sidewalks are wide, intersections are pedestrian-safe, and local zoning supports mixed-use development.
4. Urbana
Walk Score: 65 (Somewhat Walkable)
As part of the Urbana-Champaign metropolitan area, Urbana stands out for its pedestrian-friendly campus and downtown.
- University of Illinois Area: Ideal for students and staff without cars.
- Downtown Urbana: Farmer’s markets, local arts, and food co-ops.
Transit Options: Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) complements walking with reliable bus service.
5. Cicero
Walk Score: 64 (Somewhat Walkable)
Cicero offers urban living with a small-town feel. Located just outside Chicago, it’s a working-class community with accessible amenities.
- Cermak Road Corridor: Shops, restaurants, and community centers.
- Public Services: Schools, libraries, and parks are easily walkable.
Transit: Served by CTA Pink Line and local bus routes.
6. Berwyn
Walk Score: 63 (Somewhat Walkable)
Another inner-ring suburb of Chicago, Berwyn has been revitalized with art, culture, and commerce. Its layout supports walking as a primary mode of transport.
- Depot District: Local businesses and commuter rail access.
- North Berwyn: Dense housing and retail clusters.
Transportation: Metra BNSF line provides quick access to downtown Chicago.
7. Champaign
Walk Score: 62 (Somewhat Walkable)
Home to part of the University of Illinois, Champaign is pedestrian-friendly in its downtown and campus areas.
- Campustown: A hotbed of eateries and entertainment.
- Downtown Champaign: Tech startups and trendy cafes.
Integration with Urbana: Both cities share public transit and have coordinated urban development plans.
8. Skokie
Walk Score: 61 (Somewhat Walkable)
Skokie is a family-friendly suburb with an emerging reputation for walkability.
- Skokie Downtown: Restaurants, banks, and shopping in walking distance.
- Oakton Community College: Easily walkable campus with good transit.
Transit Links: Connected to CTA Yellow Line and multiple bus routes.
9. Decatur
Walk Score: 59 (Somewhat Walkable)
Located in central Illinois, Decatur features walkable neighborhoods with affordable housing and community-oriented amenities.
- Historic West End: Older homes and neighborhood schools.
- Downtown Decatur: Dining, government buildings, and local businesses.
Public Transit: Decatur Public Transit System supports accessibility without a car.
10. Peoria
Walk Score: 58 (Somewhat Walkable)
Peoria rounds out our list with walkable downtown areas and riverfront development.
- Warehouse District: Lofts, coffee shops, and creative spaces.
- Downtown Core: Government, healthcare, and education centers.
Walkability Projects: The city is actively investing in pedestrian-friendly initiatives and riverwalk expansion.
How Walk Score Works
Walk Score grades locations on a scale of 0–100 based on the proximity of amenities such as grocery stores, schools, parks, restaurants, and public transit. Here’s how the scores break down:
- 90–100: Walker’s Paradise
- 70–89: Very Walkable
- 50–69: Somewhat Walkable
- 25–49: Car-Dependent
- 0–24: Almost No Walkability
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most walkable city in Illinois?
Chicago is the most walkable city in Illinois, with high-density neighborhoods and a robust transit system.
Are there walkable suburbs near Chicago?
Yes. Evanston, Oak Park, Berwyn, and Cicero all offer walkable environments and easy access to the city.
How can I find out a city’s walkability?
Use platforms like WalkScore.com to view walkability, transit, and bike scores.
Does walkability increase property value?
Yes. Walkable neighborhoods often see higher property values and lower vacancy rates.
Is walkability important for retirement?
Absolutely. Walkable cities provide retirees with easy access to healthcare, groceries, and social activities.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a student, commuter, retiree, or young professional, walkability can significantly enhance your quality of life. The most walkable cities in Illinois combine accessible infrastructure, smart urban planning, and thriving communities. From bustling Chicago to vibrant university towns like Urbana and Champaign, Illinois offers many pedestrian-friendly places to live, work, and explore.
