Illinois’ Fastest-Growing Cities (and What That Means for Your Real Estate Career)

Thinking about launching or leveling up your real estate career in Illinois? Now’s the time. While some markets slow down, others are heating up, and if you know where to look, you can jump in confidently.

Below, we’re breaking down the fastest-growing cities in Illinois based on the latest population and economic data. Whether you're a new agentHow To Get Your Real Estate License Real Estate License or considering a career switchTransitioning Real Estate Career Step Step Blog, these hotspots offer major opportunities to grow both your client base and income.

Why Fast-Growth Cities Matter

When people move in, business booms:

• More demand for homes (and agents to sell them)

• More new construction and investment properties

• More chances to stand out early in your career

Translation: If you're looking for fast wins and long-term growth, these cities should be on your radar.

Plainfield: Chicagoland’s Booming Suburb

Population Growth: Approximately 12.4% from 2010 to 2020
What’s Driving It:

• Affordable housing compared to downtown Chicago

• Major commercial developments and industrial parks

• High-rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods

According to the U.S. Census BureauFact Table Plainfieldvillageillinois PST045223 Quickfacts, Plainfield's population grew from 39,581 in 2010 to 44,762 in 2020.

What It Means for Agents:
New to real estate? Plainfield’s high transaction volume is perfect for gaining experience. Already established? Upsize your commissions in the luxury move-up market.

Oswego: A Family-Friendly Favorite

Population Growth: Approximately 13.9% from 2010 to 2020
Why It’s Popular:

• Proximity to I-88 and I-55

• Top schools and parks

• Ongoing residential developments

The U.S. Census BureauFact Table Oswegovillageillinois PST045223 Quickfacts reports that Oswego's population increased from 30,355 in 2010 to 34,585 in 2020.

Real Estate Edge:
A great place to specialize in first-time buyers, family relocations, or new construction. The market is active and growing.

Huntley: The 55+ Power Player

Population Growth: Approximately 13.9% from 2010 to 2020
Growth Drivers:

• Popularity of Del Webb Sun City community

• Expanding healthcare and tech sectors

As per NeilsbergHuntley Il Population By Year Insights, Huntley's population grew from 24,291 in 2010 to 27,684 in 2020.

Opportunity Areas:
Serve a niche market by focusing on downsizing, retirement living, or accessible housing. Plenty of room to build trust and a steady referral network.

Chatham: Small Town, Big Potential

Population Growth: Approximately 22.4% from 2010 to 2020
What Stands Out:

• Minutes from Springfield

• Known for low crime, good schools, and community pride

The U.S. Census BureauFact Table Chathamvillageillinois PST045224 Quickfacts indicates that Chatham's population increased from 11,500 in 2010 to 14,377 in 2020.

Why It Works for Agents:
Low market saturation = more space to stand out. New agents can build momentum quickly in a tight-knit community.

Champaign: Where Tech Meets College Town

Population Growth: Approximately 8.9% from 2010 to 2020
What’s Fueling It:

• University hires and startup culture

• Strong rental and multifamily demand

• Urban amenities with Midwest affordability

According to the U.S. Census BureauFact Table Champaigncityillinois PST045223 Quickfacts, Champaign's population grew from 81,055 in 2010 to 88,302 in 2020.

Agent Advantage:
Help investors, student families, and first-time buyers. Repeat business is common here as students turn into long-term residents.

What to Watch: Growth Brings Challenges (and Opportunity)

These cities are expanding fast—but growth isn’t always smooth. You might run into:

• Limited inventory

• Infrastructure gaps

• Higher competition among agents

Here’s the upside:

• New agentsWhat Expect Your First Two Years As Real Estate Agent Blog gain real-world experience fast

• Experienced agentsHow Make Real Estate Business Plan Blog can lead with strategy and local insight

Looking Ahead: Future Trends to Track

These markets aren’t just reacting—they’re planning:

• Plainfield & Oswego are prepping for more mixed-use development

• Champaign is investing in tech infrastructure and urban housing

• Huntley continues to grow its senior living and healthcare options

Keeping tabs on local planning boards or economic development councils can give you a head start on where demand is going next.

Ready to Get Licensed?

You don’t have to wait for the “perfect” time. With Illinois’ market evolving quickly, the best move is to get in now and grow with it.

Even if:

• You’re new to the industry

• You’ve never taken an online course

• You’re still juggling your current job

You’ve got this, and we’ve got the courseIllinois Real Estate License to help you start.