Leaving Illinois? Here’s Where to Go
Property taxes near the highest in the nation, a decade of neighbors moving out, and a state government that answers to Chicago. If your family has had enough, you’re in good company — and there’s a well-worn road out. Here’s how conservative families do it right.
Illinois vs. the Free States
Why Families Are Leaving Illinois
Illinois has lost residents year after year for a decade. The reasons are consistent.
Property Taxes
Illinois property taxes rank among the very highest in America — on many homes, the tax bill rivals the mortgage payment.
Chicago Governs the State
Springfield policy is written for Cook County. Downstate families feel outvoted in their own state — because they are.
Gun Laws
FOID cards, registration schemes, and an assault-weapons ban. Free states treat the Second Amendment as a right, not a privilege.
Safety
Many families tell us they’re simply tired of planning their lives around where they can’t go after dark.
Values & Schools
Parents want schools that answer to parents — and states where school choice is expanding, not blocked.
The Exodus Itself
When friends, family, and employers keep leaving, staying gets more expensive — and lonelier — every year.
The Best States for Conservatives Leaving Illinois
We rank every state in our Most Conservative States guide — these four come up most for Illinois families.
Florida — the #1 landing spot
No state income tax, no winter, and a huge community of former Midwesterners who’ve already made the jump.
Illinois → Florida guideTennessee — values & no income tax
Zero income tax, dramatically lower property taxes, and some of the most faith-centered communities in America — a day’s drive from family.
Move to TennesseeTexas — jobs & freedom
A booming economy, no income tax, and suburbs full of families who moved for exactly the reasons you’re considering.
Move to TexasMissouri — right next door
Lower taxes, strong gun rights, and affordable family living — without moving far from aging parents or grandkids.
Move to MissouriWhat Leaving Illinois Actually Looks Like
The road our families follow — and where people go wrong alone.
1. Pick the place that fits
Not just the state — the town, the church, the school district. A local conservative agent is worth their weight in gold here.
2. Sell for top dollar
We match you with an Illinois listing agent who shares your values and knows how to maximize your sale.
3. Buy smart — often for cash
Chicagoland equity goes a long way in Tennessee or Missouri — many families buy their next home outright.
4. Move — and plug in
Movers, mortgage, and a community that welcomes you when you arrive.
Leaving Illinois, Answered
Do I need to pick a state before contacting you?
No — that’s part of what we help with. Tell us what matters most to your family and we’ll help you compare, then connect you with local agents when you’re ready.
How much does Conservative Move cost?
Nothing. Our service is completely free to you — our agents pay us a referral fee only when your transaction closes.
Can you sell my Illinois home too?
Yes — from Chicagoland to downstate, our values-aligned listing agents know how to get top dollar on the way out.
I want to stay close to family. What are my options?
Many Illinois families choose Missouri, Tennessee, or Indiana to stay within driving distance. We’ll help you weigh close-to-home against the deeper red states.
Ready to Start Your Move?
Tell us where you’re coming from and where you’re dreaming of going — we’ll match you with conservative agents on both ends, at no cost to you.
I’m Ready! Let’s Get Moving → Or call 800-277-5487Want to see it in person first? Plan a weekend visit to Texas.
