This Chicago suburb ranked No.1 in Illinois for starting a business, report says

April 16, 2026 - 22:57

A recent nationwide analysis has identified North Chicago, Illinois, as the premier small city in the state for launching a new business. The ranking, which evaluated over 1,300 small cities across multiple key dimensions, placed this suburb in a leading position due to its strong business environment and supportive infrastructure.

The study assessed cities on critical factors including access to business financing, office space affordability, labor costs, and the educational background of the local workforce. North Chicago's performance was bolstered by exceptionally high marks in the category of business costs, indicating a favorable financial climate for startups and small companies aiming to maximize their early investments.

Further strengthening its position, the suburb demonstrated notable advantages in available human capital. This suggests entrepreneurs in North Chicago benefit from a surrounding pool of skilled and educated workers, which is essential for growth and innovation. The combination of lower operational expenses and a qualified talent pool creates a compelling ecosystem for new ventures seeking a foothold in the competitive Illinois market. This recognition highlights the suburb as a practical and promising destination for aspiring business owners looking to establish their operations outside of the major metropolitan center.