Illinois often gets boxed into a handful of tired stereotypes—some funny, some annoying, and many just plain wrong. From the idea that the entire state is just Chicago, to jokes about deep-dish pizza and crooked politicians, these clichés ignore the real diversity and charm Illinois has to offer.
Let’s set the record straight. Here are 12 stereotypes about Illinois that seriously need to be put to rest—starting now.
1. “Illinois Is Just Chicago”
Yes, Chicago is the biggest city in the state—but Illinois is way more than just the Windy City. There’s central Illinois with its rich farming history, southern Illinois with its rolling hills and wineries, and charming college towns like Champaign and Normal. The state is full of variety, not just skyscrapers and traffic.
2. “Everyone Eats Deep-Dish Pizza All the Time”
We get it—deep-dish is iconic. But no, Illinoisans don’t eat it every day. In fact, many locals prefer thin crust, tavern-style pizza. Deep-dish is more for tourists than everyday dinner.
3. “It’s Always Cold and Snowy”
Illinois does have cold winters, but the state also gets all four seasons. Summers can be hot and humid, spring brings blooming gardens, and fall offers colorful foliage. It’s not all snow boots and freezing winds.
4. “The Whole State Is Flat Cornfields”
Sure, there’s a lot of farmland, especially in central and northern parts. But southern Illinois is surprisingly hilly and full of natural beauty like the Shawnee National Forest, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails. Not everything’s flat and boring.
5. “Everyone Is a Cubs Fan”
Chicago is home to both the Cubs and the White Sox—and let’s not forget the Cardinals fans near the Missouri border. Illinois is full of sports rivalries, and not everyone is chanting “Go Cubs Go.”
6. “People From Illinois All Have a Chicago Accent”
Only people from certain parts of Chicago have that thick, nasal accent. Most of the state has a fairly neutral Midwestern sound. In fact, many Illinoisans don’t even recognize the so-called “Chicago accent.”
7. “Illinois Is All Big Cities and Crime”
This stereotype comes from news about Chicago crime, but it’s unfair to paint the whole state that way. Most Illinois towns are peaceful, tight-knit communities where people know their neighbors and leave their doors unlocked.
8. “There’s Nothing to Do in Illinois”
Totally false. From exploring historic Route 66, to wine tasting in the Shawnee Hills, catching a game at Wrigley Field, or visiting charming river towns like Galena—Illinois offers more than people give it credit for.
9. “Illinois Is Bankrupt and Broken”
Yes, Illinois has faced budget issues and political drama—but that doesn’t define the state. It’s still a major center for business, education, agriculture, and innovation. The people here are resilient and keep things moving forward.
10. “Everyone Works in Government or Politics”
Just because Illinois has produced more than its share of presidents and politicians doesn’t mean everyone works in politics. The state’s economy includes healthcare, tech, education, farming, logistics, and more.
11. “The Food Scene Starts and Ends with Pizza and Hot Dogs”
Sure, Chicago-style dogs and pizza are famous, but Illinois has a seriously underrated food scene. From award-winning restaurants to small-town diners, ethnic food festivals, and unique local treats like Italian beef—there’s something for every foodie.
12. “Nothing Good Ever Comes Out of Illinois”
Really? Illinois has given the world Abraham Lincoln, Walt Disney, Robin Williams, Oprah Winfrey, and more. It’s the birthplace of jazz legends, authors, inventors, and yes—even Twinkies.
Illinois is a state of contrasts—urban and rural, modern and historical, fast-paced and slow-living. It’s not perfect, but it’s far more than the tired stereotypes people throw around.
So whether you’ve driven through, lived here your whole life, or only know it from TV, it’s time to rethink what Illinois is really all about. Trust us—there’s a lot more to it than you think.
SOURCES
- (https://q985online.com/10-illinois-stereotypes-people-say-are-accurate-but-we-think-are-questionable/)
- (https://www.illinoispolicy.org/the-most-misleading-myths-in-illinois-politics/)
- (https://www.q101.com/2021/05/12/whats-the-most-accurate-illinois-stereotype/)
