Champaign-Urbana
East-Central Illinois • Population: 88,000 (Champaign), 42,000 (Urbana)
About Champaign-Urbana
Champaign-Urbana punches far above its weight. Home to the University of Illinois' flagship campus, this twin-city community offers Big Ten athletics, world-class research, vibrant cultural programming, and a surprisingly robust food and startup scene—all at Midwestern prices. The university creates a perpetually young, diverse, and intellectually curious population. For families seeking excellent schools, professionals in tech or research, or anyone wanting cultural richness without big-city costs, C-U delivers remarkable value.
Best For
- Academics, researchers, and those working in higher education
- Tech workers (growing startup ecosystem, Research Park)
- Families wanting cultural amenities at affordable prices
- Big Ten sports enthusiasts (Fighting Illini)
- Anyone seeking a progressive, diverse, educated community
Things to Do in Champaign-Urbana
University of Illinois Campus
Beautiful Main Quad, Krannert Art Museum, UIUC Arboretum.
Krannert Center for the Performing Arts
World-class performing arts venue with affordable tickets.
Memorial Stadium
Big Ten football—Illinois Fighting Illini game days are events.
Downtown Champaign
Restaurants, bars, Virginia Theatre, local shops.
Allerton Park
1,500-acre retreat center with gardens and trails (20 min away).
Curtis Orchard
Fall destination for apples, pumpkins, and family activities.
Neighborhoods
Campustown
Student-oriented, walkable to university, nightlife.
Downtown Champaign
Urban living, restaurants, arts venues.
Downtown Urbana
Independent shops, farmers market, quieter vibe.
Southwest Champaign
Family neighborhoods with good schools.
Savoy
Adjacent village with newer subdivisions.
Quick Facts
- Median Home Price
- $195,000
- Average Rent (1BR)
- $850
- Major Employers
- University of Illinois, Carle Health, schools
- School Districts
- Unit 4 (Champaign), Unit 116 (Urbana)
- Distance to Chicago
- 135 miles (2.5 hours)
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