If you think to the Prairie Stateunderstanding the major industries in Illinois can help you think about your new life. The state has a diverse economy, providing opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing, health care, and technology. That you are browsing homes for sale in chicago or Homes in SpringfieldIllinois offers professional options in all career fields. With a strong transportation network, top universities, and a skilled workforce, Illinois is an attractive destination for job seekers. Let’s examine some of the industries that drive the state’s economy and why they are important to those considering moving.
Illinois at a glance: Home prices, income, and employment
Top employers in Illinois
- State of Illinois: 144,900 workers
- Walmart: 57,400 workers
- City of Chicago: 44,900 workers
- Amazon: 38,000 workers
- Cook County: 13,100 workers
10 largest industries in Illinois
1. Productivity
Major Employers: Caterpillar Inc. (locations in Illinois), John Deere (Moline), Archer Daniels Midland (Chicago)
Illinois is a powerhouse, producing everything from heavy machinery to food products. Caterpillar and John Deere provide jobs in engineering, manufacturing, and logistics. ADM is involved in food processing and procurement management. Manufacturing thrives here because of access to transportation and raw materials. For consumers and employers, this industry ensures stability and economic growth.
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2. Health and social assistance
Major Employers: Northwestern Medicine (Chicago), Advocate Aurora Health (Downers Grove), OSF HealthCare (Peoria)
Health care is one of Illinois’ largest and most important sectors. Northwestern Medicine employs medical professionals, administrators, and researchers. Advocate Aurora Health offers opportunities in nursing, patient care, and surgery. OSF HealthCare offers positions in small cities like Peoria, which boosts the local economy. This strong sector ensures strong demand for housing in communities across the province.
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3. Education
Major Employers: University of Illinois System (Champaign), Northwestern University (Evanston), Illinois State University (Normal)
Illinois is home to world-class academic institutions that offer roles in teaching, administration and research. The University of Illinois provides opportunities for faculty, technical support, and staff. Northwestern University attracts global talent, enhancing the appeal of nearby Evanston to residents. Education remains a cornerstone of the Illinois economy, producing approx $50 billion in revenue. The abundance of opportunities in this field makes the country ripe for lifelong learning and professional development.
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4. Finance and insurance
Major Employers: Allstate (Northbrook), CME Group (Chicago), State Farm (Bloomington)
Illinois’ financial sector is based in Chicago, which is home to global giants such as the CME Group. Allstate and State Farm offer jobs in risk management, underwriting, and IT. This industry supports communities throughout Illinois with competitive wages and career advancement. Residents benefit from a strong local economy and access to services such as banking and insurance.
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5. Transportation and warehousing
Major Employers: United Airlines (Chicago), Schneider National (areas in Illinois), BNSF Railway (areas in Illinois)
Illinois serves as the central transportation hub of the country. United Airlines, which carried more than 160 million passengers by 2023, is hiring professionals in logistics, maintenance, and customer service. Freight companies and railroads, such as BNSF, contribute to the state’s role in global commerce. Living in Illinois means access to well-connected cities and more job opportunities.
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6. Technological and software development
Major Employers: Motorola Solutions (Chicago), Grubhub (Chicago), CDW (Vernon Hills)
The technology sector in Illinois is growing rapidly, driven by companies like Motorola Solutions. Grubhub’s headquarters in Chicago offers technical jobs in application development, data science, and user experience. CDW supports the industry with IT infrastructure solutions. This innovation attracts skilled professionals, strengthening local housing markets.
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7. Agriculture
Major Employers: Archer Daniels Midland (Chicago), Ingredion (Westchester), Monsanto (locations in Illinois)
Finally 70,000 farms across the state, Illinois is a leader in agriculture, producing corn, soybeans, and wheat. ADM and Ingredion hire employees in food science, logistics, and product development. Agribusiness supports rural communities with sustainable jobs and economic activities. Residents enjoy the connection to local food production and agriculturally thriving cities.
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8. Retail trade
Major Employers: Walgreens Boots Alliance (Deerfield), Ace Hardware (Oak Brook), ALDI (Batavia)
Illinois has a strong retail sector, bolstered by companies like Walgreens Boots Alliance. Ace Hardware offers roles in operations, marketing, and supply chain management. Retailing provides many jobs to residents of cities and suburbs. Its presence ensures economic activity and convenience for Illinois residents.
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9. Professional services
Major Employers: Accenture, Deloitte, KPMG (all based out of state and territories in Illinois)
Professional services are thriving in Illinois, offering roles in consulting, accounting, and legal services. Big firms like Accenture and Deloitte hire in IT, project management, and finance. This sector attracts a highly educated workforce, supporting urban centers with a continuing need for housing. Illinois’ business environment is encouraging growth in this area.
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10. Power
Major Employers: Exelon (Chicago), Constellation Energy (locations in Illinois), BP (locations in Illinois)
Illinois energy companies focus on traditional and renewable sources. Exelon and Constellation Energy provide jobs in power generation, engineering, and management. With a mix of nuclear, wind, and solar projects, the state is leading the way in clean energy innovation. The expansion of the industry benefits the local economy and provides sustainable livelihoods.
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