Well, I've been to various parts of the state, and the only area I found halfway tolerable is Southern Illinois. People in the rest of the state, especially Northern Illinois, tend to be unfriendly bordering on surly, IMO.
Yes, the food is great in Chicago, but that and Wrigley Field is about the only decent thing about that city.
Illinois politicians are almost openly corrupt, taxes are high, gun laws are absurd, Democrats and RINOs completely control the state and the weather is awful.
But, other than that, it's OK, I guess. :-)
Actually, the cornfields are about the best thing about Illinois. It was a better state when there were more farmers and less Chicagoans.
Sorry to offend, but that's my honest opinion.
Bah... You didn't offend me. You have some valid points. After all, it is Chicago where the phrase "Vote early, vote often" originated. Politically things are bad, which is why I tried to list other good things about the state.
I have found that there are nice people anywhere, even in the heart of downtown Chicago, but you are right. Downstate, people are more friendly.
I still think it is a great state and a decent place to live.