>Some Useful Links Below

Champaign-Urbana is home to one of the premier research and educational institutions in the country and was ranked one of the world's top ten "Hot New Tech Cities" in a recent Newsweek story. The community combines the sophistication and cultural advantages of a large cosmopolitan university with the relaxed atmosphere and convenience of a smaller city. Chicago, one of the world's truly great cities, is less than three hours away, and within a short traveling distance, you can wander the rolling prairie, canoe on scenic rivers, sail, fish, camp, and hike.

The university campus spans the twin cities of Champaign (population 64,000) and Urbana (population 34,000). These cities are home to several large corporations and many new high-tech companies, including some exciting start-ups based on faculty and student research.

There are many cultural activities both on and off campus. The University Library is the third largest academic library in the country, after Harvard and Yale. The Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, one of the best performing arts complexes in the nation, holds over 300 performances yearly in its four theaters. The unversity has four museums with extensive permanent collections: The World Heritage Museum, The Museum of Natural History, The Krannert Art Museum, and The John Philip Sousa Museum. Restaurants represent cuisine from around the world, from Indian and Thai delicacies to sushi and Swiss fondue. Champaign is home to a thriving music scene and several local theaters.

In addition to Chicago, 150 miles to the north, St. Louis and Indianapolis are also nearby. The area is served by Amtrak rail and Willard Airport, with nonstop flights to hub cities. A car is not required to get around town. There is an extensive network of bicycle paths and a top-notch bus system.

Cost of living is relatively low, with the average rent for a two-bedroom apartment $500 per month. To compare Champaign-Urbana with other communities, visit the salary calculator.

Some Useful links:

About champaign:
     http://www.champaigncountymag.com/
     http://www.techcommunity.org/
     http://www.cupartnership.org/
     http://www.cmi.k12.il.us/
     http://www.cuparent.com/

University links:
     http://www.uiuc.edu/
     http://www.uiuc.edu/admin2/vguide.html

Other:
     http://www.cusymphony.org
     http://www.diningworld.com/
     http://illinoisrealtyteam.mp2.homes.com/
     http://www.roysebrinkmeyer.com/
     http://www.maxmitchell.com/