Elgin, IL

Overall Score

3.7

On both sides of the Fox River in Illinois State lies the city of Elijah. Its main area is occupied by Kouk County; the other, smaller area, is part of Kouk County. Relatively close to the city limits lies Chickasaw. Approximately 63 kilometers of track separate the settlements. Before 1832, the area occupied by the present city was occupied by an Indian tribe of Potawatami. As a result of the wars, they were forced to leave the coast and move to a safer area. After the opening of the railroad in 1849, the city developed rapidly.

Elgin was considered the center of military production during the Civil War. This was due to the close proximity of the area, where the water was used by the factories. Now the modern city is developing in a different direction. Its economy is based on passenger transportation. Elijah is known as the largest airport in the state. In 1994, the city opened a riverboat casino, generating significant revenue for the city. ×Some of the old buildings have been converted into restaurants and clubs, giving them a new life.

Overall Score

3.7
  • Air quality: 36 US AQI Good. Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk.
  • Tap water: Yes, safe to drink
  • Religious government: Non-religious
  • Population: 110,000 people
  • GDP: $57,808 / year
  • Foreigners can own real estate: Yes
  • Power outlets: 115V60Hz
  • Internet: 56 Mbps
  • Best wireless: Verizon
  • Pay without cash: Yes, cards OK almost everywhere
  • Tipping: How much should I tip at a restaurant? A gratuity of 15 to 20 per cent on top of the bill (before sales tax) is standard, with 25 per cent given for topnotch service. Servers in America work hard for the money – they’re generally friendly, knowledgeable and willing to go the extra mile for customers.
  • Apartment listings: Craigslist
  • Apartments: Airbnb
  • Hotels: Booking.com
  • More hotels: Hotels.com
  • Best taxi: Uber
  • Online electronics shop: Amazon
  • Best intl air carrier: United
  • Monthly costs for expat: $3200
  • Monthly costs for family: $5000
  • Monthly costs for local: $1450
  • Meal: $13
  • Small Cola: $2
  • Beer 1 Pint: $6.5
  • Coffee: $4.5


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