City Profile
Bloomington, Minnesota
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Bloomington, Illinois, is a vibrant city in McLean County, known for its strong economy, educational institutions, and a comfortable quality of life. Historically, the city's growth has been influenced by agriculture, the development of railroads, and the rise of the insurance industry, with State Farm Insurance being a prominent long-standing employer. People are drawn to Bloomington for its blend of a slower pace of life with access to good hospitals, schools, and recreational activities. The city and its adjoining community, Normal, form the fastest-growing metropolitan area in Illinois, experiencing significant population growth over the past decades.
Minnesota, often called the "Land of 10,000 Lakes," is known for its strong sense of community, outdoor lifestyle, and "Minnesota Nice" reputation. The state boasts a diverse and highly developed economy with major industries including healthcare and medical technology, food and agriculture, manufacturing, and financial services, and is home to numerous Fortune 500 companies. While winters are long and cold with significant snowfall, summers are hot and humid, offering a wide range of seasonal activities. The cost of living in Minnesota is generally lower than the national average, with housing and utilities being particularly affordable, contributing to its high quality of life.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bloomington, IL, is generally more affordable than the national average, with an overall cost of living index of 89, meaning it's 11% cheaper than the U.S. average. Housing is a significant factor in this affordability, being approximately 11.0% less expensive than the national average. While groceries are slightly cheaper, utilities and healthcare services tend to be slightly higher than the national average, at 5.7% and 6.2% more, respectively. These factors contribute to Bloomington's reputation for affordable living in Central Illinois, making it an attractive option for those seeking a balanced lifestyle without the high costs of larger metropolitan areas.
Income
Salary Insights
Bloomington's economy is robust, employing approximately 41,075 people as of 2024, with a job growth rate of 2.83% from 2023 to 2024. The largest industries driving the local economy are Finance & Insurance, Health Care & Social Assistance, and Educational Services. Major employers include State Farm Insurance, Rivian, Illinois State University, COUNTRY Financial, Carle BroMenn Hospital, and OSF St. Joseph Medical Center. The average annual salary in Bloomington was reported at $76,000 as of May 2026, with the highest paying industries being Management of Companies & Enterprises and Finance & Insurance. The unemployment rate in Bloomington was 3.9% in May 2026, which is lower than the national average.
The average salary in Bloomington is $76,000 per year. You would need approximately $44,700 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Bloomington primarily involves personal vehicles, with approximately 75% of residents commuting by car. The average commute time is around 17 minutes, which is shorter than the national average. While car dependency is high, the city also offers public transportation through the Connect Transit system, with a monthly pass costing around $40. Bloomington is considered to be a fairly walkable city in all climates, offering some pedestrian-friendly areas. Traffic congestion is generally not a major issue, contributing to smoother daily commutes compared to larger urban centers.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Bloomington
More in Bloomington
Do business & find care in Bloomington
Business & Franchises
Ready to buy, franchise, or launch a business in Bloomington, Minnesota?
Powered by AziBizSenior Care
24 senior care facilities in Bloomington — assisted living, nursing & memory care.
Powered by FindCarezBusinesses for Sale in Bloomington
Explore active acquisition & franchise opportunities in Bloomington, Minnesota.
Local Directory
Businesses in Bloomington
No businesses listed in Bloomington yet — be the first to get in front of people moving here.
Add your business — free
Compare Bloomington with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing