Most people will live alone at least once in their life, and for untethered singletons—or any independent—the Remote Work Revolution is affording many the flexibility to change up their living situation.
But solo living is a luxury not everyone can afford. Rent prices continue to increase and coupled with other costly necessities like prescription medications, food and separate utility bills, it can be too much for a single income to bear—depending on where you live.
NiceRx recently looked at several factors to determine the Top 10 Best States for Solo Living. And Illinois? It’s No. 9.
Still, Illinois only earned a 5.5/10 rating. The average ranking is likely due, in part, to the state’s average monthly rent for one bedroom—$1,010. It’s the second highest on the list, preceded only by Alaska’s $1,244. It does, however, have a high number of health centers per 100,000 people at 5.17.
And Illinois isn’t the only spot in the Midwest to consider. Nebraska, Indiana and Wisconsin also made the list.
Wisconsin is No. 4, according to NiceRx, and earned a 6.1/10 rating. What puts Wisconsin higher on the list? Rent is lower and safety is greater, to name a few reasons. Its average cost of health insurance is, however, higher than Illinois’ at $7,275. Surprising, but it makes sense. The Badger State is especially attractive to retirees, and not just for its community-like feel.
In fact, NiceRx found Wisconsin to be No. 3 on their list of “Best States for Elderly Solo Living.” Not only does it score highly for both healthcare quality and accessibility, but it also has a high number of assisted living facilities per 100,000 people. This is much higher than the number for Illinois—17 compared to 10.9.
