Illinois’ Wealthiest Counties: Are You Living in One of the Top 10?

Ever wonder which Illinois counties are rolling in the dough while the rest of us roll pennies? Thanks to a recent study from SmartAsset, we’ve got the scoop on the top 10 wealthiest counties in the state.

Do You Live in One of the Wealthiest Counties in Illinois? Here’s the Countdown

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A recent financial technology company SmartAsset study ranked the top 10 wealthiest counties in Illinois using their “wealth index score.” This number is based on median income, investment income, and median home value. In true dramatic fashion, let’s count them down from 10 to 1—because suspense makes everything better, right?

#10: Boone County

Median Income: $80,502
Investment Income: $44,572
Median Home Value: $250,642
Wealth Index Score: 24.48

Boone County squeaks into the top 10. With median home values just breaking $250,000, it’s rich, but not "Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous" rich.

#9: Grundy County

Median Income: $89,993
Investment Income: $39,720
Median Home Value: $290,793
Wealth Index Score: 27.17

Grundy County offers solid wealth stats but still lives in the shadow of its flashier neighbors.

#8: Cook County

Median Income: $78,304
Investment Income: $116,986
Median Home Value: $306,108
Wealth Index Score: 27.38

Cook County is a financial overachiever when it comes to investment income. Its lower median income and (relatively) average home values keep it further down the list.

#7: Monroe County

Median Income: $100,685
Investment Income: $34,250
Median Home Value: $296,096
Wealth Index Score: 29.59

Monroe County combines charming small-town vibes with a six-figure median income. Nicely done.

#6: Kane County

Median Income: $96,400
Investment Income: $49,121
Median Home Value: $343,964
Wealth Index Score: 29.82

Kane County keeps it classy with a mix of suburban comfort and serious earning power.

#5: McHenry County

Median Income: $100,101
Investment Income: $61,544
Median Home Value: $333,572
Wealth Index Score: 30.99

McHenry County cracks the top 5 with high home values and plenty of investment income to go around.

#4: Will County

Median Income: $103,678
Investment Income: $35,444
Median Home Value: $339,705
Wealth Index Score: 31.00

Will County’s numbers prove that suburban sprawl can pay off—literally.

#3: Kendall County

Median Income: $106,358
Investment Income: $26,804
Median Home Value: $360,529
Wealth Index Score: 31.64

Kendall County’s median home value hits impressive heights, but its investment income could use a boost.

#2: DuPage County

Median Income: $107,035
Investment Income: $72,712
Median Home Value: $401,641
Wealth Index Score: 34.06

DuPage County flaunts high earnings and investment income to match its luxury-priced homes.

#1: Lake County

Median Income: $104,553
Investment Income: $144,643
Median Home Value: $353,559
Wealth Index Score: 35.31

Lake County, the crown jewel of Illinois wealth, boasts jaw-dropping investment income and sky-high property values.

Counties That Just Missed the Mark

While Woodford County came in at #13 statewide, with a respectable wealth index score, other nearby counties didn’t quite make the top 10. The statewide median income of $62,930 and average home value of $151,016 highlight just how much these top counties stand out. So, if you’re feeling financially underwhelmed, take comfort in knowing you’re not alone.