How Rural is Illinois? The Prairie State's Urban-Adventure Ratio
Illinois: Land of Lincoln, home of Chicago's deep dish pizza, and... surprisingly spacious countrysides? That's right, folks, while the Windy City might steal the spotlight, Illinois boasts a surprising amount of wide-open spaces. But how much exactly? Buckle up, buttercup, because we're about to untangle the rural-urban ratio of this Midwestern marvel.
 |
| How Much Of Illinois Is Rural |
The Great Illinois Divide: City Slickers vs. Country Bumpkins (Kind Of)
Let's get this straight: Chicago is a bustling metropolis, no doubt about it. But venture outside the Cook County borders, and things get a little less crowded. In fact, according to the latest census shenanigans (because, let's face it, the census can be a bureaucratic circus sometimes), a whopping 64% of Illinois counties are classified as rural! That's right, folks, more cows than skyscrapers in a significant chunk of the state.
Tip: Rest your eyes, then continue.
Hold on a sec, you might be saying, "64% rural? That sounds high!" Well, you're not wrong, Sherlock. The definition of "rural" can get a little fuzzy, depending on who you ask. The census bureau considers a county "rural" if it's not part of a big metropolitan area, OR if it has less than 60,000 residents. So, some of these "rural" counties might have charming small towns instead of tumbleweeds and tumbleweeds only.
QuickTip: Absorb ideas one at a time.
So, You Wanna Escape the Hustle and Bustle? Head to Rural Illinois!
Here's the beauty of Illinois' rural sprawl: Wide open spaces for stargazing (because who needs city lights when you have the Milky Way?), rolling farmlands for that fresh-air fix, and enough peace and quiet to hear your own thoughts (assuming you haven't forgotten what those sound like).
Tip: Read the whole thing before forming an opinion.
Looking for outdoor adventures? Rural Illinois has got your back: hiking trails, camping grounds, and state parks galore. Plus, there's always the chance you'll stumble upon a hidden gem – a quirky roadside attraction, a charming farmers market, or a local festival celebrating the, ahem, "finer things" in life (like, you know, the world's biggest ball of twine).
Tip: Read slowly to catch the finer details.
 |
But wait, you cry, "Isn't there, like, no internet in rural Illinois?" Fear not, intrepid explorer! While high-speed internet access might be a bit more scarce compared to the city, things have come a long way, baby. Most rural areas have decent internet options these days, so you can still upload those epic sunset pics to make your city friends jealous.
How to Illinois Rural: A Crash Course for City Slickers
Alright, alright, so you're sold on the rural Illinois charm. But how do you navigate this brave new world? Fear not, for we have compiled a handy dandy FAQ to ease your transition:
How to:
- Find a decent cup of coffee? Local diners and cafes are your best bet. Chain stores might be scarce, but the coffee's often stronger (and the conversation livelier).
- Get your grocery fix? Look for independent grocery stores and farmers markets. Sure, there might be fewer brands, but the produce is often fresher and the people friendlier.
- Entertain yourself? Explore the great outdoors! Hike, bike, camp, or just relax under a starry sky. Rural life is all about slowing down and appreciating the simple things.
- Make friends with the locals? Strike up a conversation at the diner counter, join a community event, or volunteer at a local cause. Folks in rural areas are often friendly and welcoming (once you get past the initial "who are you?" stare).
- Adjust to the peace and quiet? This one might be the hardest. It's okay to be startled by the sound of crickets chirping at night. You'll get used to it... eventually.
So there you have it, folks! Illinois offers a surprising amount of rural charm, perfect for those seeking an escape from the urban jungle. With a little planning and an open mind, you might just discover that rural Illinois is the hidden gem you never knew you were looking for.
 |
