How do you think your city would match up with other places when it comes to happiness?

Two Illinois cities are among the top 100 happiest cities in the U.S. , according to a recent finding.

Here’s what Illinois places are especially cheery.

Who put out the finding?

WalletHub made the evaluation by comparing 182 of the largest U.S. cities in 2025, which included the 150 most populated cities in the country, plus at least two of the most populated cities in each state.

WalletHub is a website and app that helps people manage personal finances.

Methodology

WalletHub looked at three key dimensions: Emotional & Physical Well-Being, Income & Employment, and Community and Environment.

Researchers looked at the categories using 29 "relevant" metrics that held certain weight that determined the happiest cities.

WalletHub's analysis also drew upon findings of research they cited that indicated a correlation between the data they used and happiness.

What Illinois cities ranked?

Aurora placed 49 and Chicago placed 93.

How did the Illinois cities score?

What cities topped the list?

The graphic below shows the top 182 happiest cities in the U.S.

Tom Ackerman covers breaking news and trending news along with general news for the Springfield State Journal-Register. He can be reached at [email protected].