I think it goes without saying (but I will say it) that I'm not a fancy fellow. That's one of the reasons I am quite pleased to report that Missouri has been ranked as one of the least expensive states to live in based on science. Yay for cheap.
I don't like to be told what to do or what not to do, so perhaps I should change my advice to "maybe". This is in regards to the cheapest city you can buy a home in Illinois, but probably don't. I'll explain why.
I admit that I don't always agree with assertions the internet makes, but in this case I do. A recent visit by a prominent YouTuber highlighted what he believes is the 'most destroyed' town in Illinois and he's not wrong. It is way past the point of no return sadly.
This appears to be a major shakeup in the banking industry. One of the most prominent banks in America announced they are closing more than 100 locations and I've confirmed that 1 of them is in Missouri.