Peoria has a rich history in the annals of the United States. The city is where Abraham Lincoln gave his famous speech against the Kansas-Nebraska Act in 1854, was once the leading producer of whiskey in the U.S., and has remained a major shipping city with its port on the Illinois River.
Beyond Peoria’s rich history is a vibrant city that has become one of the best places to live in America, according to U.S. News & World Report. In 2024, the city was rated one of the 100 best places to live in the U.S., most notably for high marks in the "Quality of Life Index," which considers factors such as education, healthcare, air quality, and general well-being.
Today, Peoria is a community known for beloved festivals, affordability, and a thriving arts scene that has attracted many young families and those seeking opportunity. With a wide range of theaters, music venues and museums, the city has become a central Illinois hub for entertainment. The Peoria Riverfront Museum offers exhibits that highlight the city's history, science, and culture, the PlayHouse Children's Museum is hands-on fun for young minds, while nature lovers can enjoy the Luthy Botanical Garden, the Peoria Zoo, or any of the many nature trails. Its annual 4th of July Sky Concert draws in over 100,000 people from around the region and is a beloved event that showcases the spirit of the community. To name just a few of the reasons Peorians enjoy their city so much.
With housing costs well below the national average, it is one of the most affordable cities to live in both Illinois and the U.S. Coupled with opportunities in industries such as healthcare, agriculture, shipping and manufacturing, with major companies like Caterpillar, Peoria offers excellent job opportunities as well.
A lifelong Peorian and former City Council member, House Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain knows firsthand why Peoria really is one of the best places to live in America.
With housing costs well below the national average, it is one of the most affordable cities to live in both Illinois and the U.S. Coupled with opportunities in industries such as healthcare, agriculture, shipping and manufacturing, with major companies like Caterpillar, Peoria offers excellent job opportunities as well.
A lifelong Peorian and former City Council member, House Deputy Minority Leader Ryan Spain knows firsthand why Peoria really is one of the best places to live in America.
“As a lifelong Peorian, I’ve had the opportunity to experience what makes this city such a wonderful place to live,” said Spain. “Whether as a kid who got to enjoy the opportunities we have in our city, a parent who gets to relive so many of those experiences with my children now, or a community member who has been able to benefit from and give back to the community, I cannot think of a better place to call home than Peoria.”