The same is true for Illinois. Close to 80% of the population lives within 50 miles of Chicago. Almost everywhere else has a much lower cost of living. Only

The same is true for Illinois. Close to 80% of the population lives within 50 miles of Chicago. Almost everywhere else has a much lower cost of living. Only four towns outside of the Chicago metro area have more than 100,000 people, and two of those are just outside. Even from suburb to suburb, the amount of house $200,000 buys you varies greatly.