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Why trust this guide?
Our editorial team analyzed 191 nursing homes in IL using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in IL
Info below is compiled from CMS reports & the IL Dept. of Public Health (IDPH), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.
Communities are listed from highest-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our methodology.
The facility name. Click to view the full profile page on Assisted Living Magazine, including photos, services, and contact info.
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that regulates nursing homes) Overall 5-star rating — a composite of Health Inspection, Staffing, and Quality Measures scores. 5 stars = top 10% nationally. 1 star = bottom 10%. The single most important number to start with when comparing facilities.
Care Types in This TableAL (Assisted Living):
Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing.
NH (Nursing Home):
24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs.
SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility):
Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness.
MC (Memory Care):
Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia.
RC (Respite Care):
Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break.
IL (Independent Living):
Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care.
HOS (Hospice Care):
Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment.
PC (Palliative Care):
Comfort-focused care for serious illness at any stage, including alongside curative treatment.
CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community):
A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
Percentage of licensed beds filled on an average day. Color indicates financial health: green (90%+) = operationally strong, typically profitable. Amber (80–89%) = stable but leaving revenue on the table. Orange (70–79%) = financial strain likely, may struggle with fixed costs. Red (<70%) = significant distress, closure or ownership change risk increases sharply.
This facility's occupancy rate compared to the statewide average for similar facilities. A positive number means above-average demand. Facilities running 5%+ above the state average are typically the most sought-after in their market — a strong proxy for reputation.
CMS-adjusted total nurse hours per resident per day (RN + LPN + CNA combined). The national average is approximately 3.5 hrs. Higher is better — more direct care time per resident. Below 3.0 is a red flag. CMS weights RN hours more heavily because RNs handle complex clinical decisions that CNAs cannot.
CMS Health Inspection star rating (1–5 stars), based on the 3 most recent annual state surveys plus any complaint investigations. This is the hardest rating to manipulate — it reflects real surveyor findings on-site. 5 stars = fewest deficiencies found. 1 star = most. It carries the heaviest weight in the Overall CMS rating.
CMS Staffing star rating (1–5 stars), based on daily nurse staffing hours submitted to CMS via verified payroll data. Compares RN, LPN, and CNA coverage relative to resident acuity level. 5 stars = well above expected staffing. Weekend staffing is evaluated separately, as that's where many facilities quietly reduce coverage.
CMS Quality Measures star rating (1–5 stars), based on 15 clinical outcome metrics including fall rates, pressure ulcers, antipsychotic drug use, and hospital readmissions. Captures actual resident health outcomes, not just compliance. High QM combined with low Health Inspection scores can indicate a facility with strong care but weak documentation practices.
Registered Nurse hours per resident/day compared to the statewide average. RNs are the highest-skilled nursing staff — they assess residents, manage medications, and respond to emergencies. A value of +50% means RN coverage is 50% above the state norm. Negative values are a concern for residents with complex or acute medical needs.
Total nursing staff hours (RN + LPN + CNA combined) per resident/day vs. the statewide average. A broader measure than RN vs State — it captures the entire care team. A facility can have high total staffing but low RN hours, meaning more aides and fewer nurses. Read both columns together for the full picture.
Total dollar amount of federal monetary fines (civil money penalties) issued by CMS in the past 3 years. Fines are only levied for serious violations — typically actual harm to residents, repeated uncorrected deficiencies, or systemic non-compliance. Even a single fine is noteworthy. Multiple fines strongly suggest a pattern, not isolated incidents.
Total health deficiency citations from the most recent standard inspection cycle. Minor citations (scope A–C) are common and often administrative in nature. Higher counts aren't always disqualifying, but should be read alongside Severe Citations to understand actual harm levels. Under 10 is strong for a large facility; 30+ warrants a closer look.
Average deficiency citations per CMS inspection (survey) in the reporting window — total citations divided by the number of inspections. Lower is better; compare alongside total Citations and Severe Citations for context.
Citations at CMS scope/severity level G or higher — G–I means actual harm occurred; J–L means residents were placed in immediate jeopardy. (D–F is potential for harm only). Examples include unaddressed falls, medication errors causing injury, neglect, or abuse.
Average number of residents in the building on any given day, derived from annual census data. Reflects true operating scale — a 400-bed facility running 200 residents/day operates very differently from one at 390. Higher resident counts generally mean more funded staffing hours.
Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F). Reflects complaint history, business transparency, and how family disputes were resolved. A+ means no significant unresolved complaints. A blank (—) means the facility isn't BBB-accredited, which is common for healthcare providers and not necessarily a negative signal.
Walk Score® (0–100). Measures walkability of the surrounding area. 90–100 = Walker's Paradise. 70–89 = Very Walkable. 50–69 = Somewhat Walkable. Below 50 = Car-Dependent. Higher scores benefit family visitors, resident outings, and staff commuting.
The licensed owner or operator of record filed with CMS — the individual or organization legally accountable for the facility. Searching the operator name across other facilities can reveal chain or multi-site ownership, which matters: chain-operated homes tend to have more variable quality outcomes than independently run facilities.
What the home actually collects for resident care, after contractual allowances, bad debt and discounts — not gross billings. Taken from the latest complete annual cost report, so it is comparable across homes reporting the same period. Revenue alone doesn't indicate care quality, but it funds staffing and capital reinvestment. Pair with Payroll %. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Staff salaries plus wage-related benefits from the latest complete annual cost report. Contract and agency labour is counted separately, under other operating costs, so a home leaning on agency staff can show a low figure here. Payroll is the cost most directly tied to care quality — compare with Payroll % for full context. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Payroll as a share of NET PATIENT REVENUE (not gross revenue). Both figures come from the same cost-report year. A higher figure means more of each revenue dollar goes to staff pay. Read with the Staffing star rating to judge whether spend translates into coverage — and note that homes whose patient revenue covers only part of their operation can read implausibly high. The Illinois average is: 60.5% Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
CMS Certification Number: the unique federal identifier for this skilled nursing provider.
Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each nursing home is ranked against every other IL nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 191 on this page. See how we rank facilities
Overview of Burgess Square Healthcare & Rehab Centre
Burgess Square Healthcare & Rehab Centre is an excellent Westmont, IL community offering exceptional rehabilitation services. To guarantee excellent recovery outcomes and a fast healing process, the community provides tailored care plans based on residents’ unique needs, care goals, and preferences. The community also has partnerships with several healthcare providers to ensure residents’ medical needs are well-provided.
The community also provides compassionate hospice and palliative care for those in the final stages of their lives or suffering from serious illnesses. Its compassionate team works closely with residents, their families, and other healthcare providers to deliver care transparently and conveniently. At Burgess Square Healthcare & Rehab Centre, they ensure residents are given all the care and support they need to maintain their maximum potential.
Fostering a bright and friendly environment, Oak Trace settling in the quiet grounds of Village Drive, Downers, Grove, IL, is a trusted continuing care retirement community that offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care. Keep your peace of mind with a kind and compassionate team helping you with your daily activities and needs. Live in comfort and convenience with various care options available in Oak Trace.
Stay active and well-connected with a jam-packed calendar of carefully curated fun activities that focus on residents’ interests and strengths. Oak Trace strives to provide a safe place for seniors to feel a sense of belonging within its premises. Amenities include an art studio, a library, a fitness center, and serene walking paths.
The Mather is undoubtedly the premier Life Plan Community just north of Chicago. The beautiful condominium-style building offers resort-like hospitality, ensuring residents a sense of belonging with a forward-thinking approach to senior living. The luxurious 62+ retirement community has learned year after year the right direction to a quality standard of living and, for years, has promoted and lived by its goal of enhancing the quality of life for every senior who has chosen its approach to senior living.
A luxury community that guarantees cozy apartments where residents can feel comfortable after a day of doing activities. Their amenities and facilities are convenient: a hair salon and barbershop, a library, a recreational studio, a business center, and breathtaking views, to name a few of the community highlights. Their housekeeping and linen services, concierge, and maintenance services are all provided so residents can live a hassle-free lifestyle.
Bella Terra Schaumburg is a nursing home in Schaumburg, IL, offering memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. Featuring thoughtfully furnished private and semi-private rooms in a warm and welcoming setting, the community ensures older adults can feel at home. Exceptional services, including 24-hour care, nutritious meals, and comprehensive therapies, are also provided to improve residents’ quality of life. The community also works closely with residents to provide the best possible care tailored to their unique needs and habits.
Social events and light exercises encourage residents to stay active and gain meaningful experiences. Lively family lounges and a salon are also available, ensuring residents can focus on their wellness. Residents also have quick access to necessities and leisure, with the NCH Schaumburg Outpatient Care Center, fast-food chains, convenience stores, and shops nearby. This nursing home has a wide range of care options for older adults’ welfare, making it one of the best options for senior living in Illinois.
Citadel of Northbrook is a highly rated nursing home in Northbrook, IL, offering rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and specialized care. The community also ensures older adults feel at home with its upscale, hotel-like amenities. With kosher menu options, housekeeping, and laundry, residents can also experience maintenance-free living. Personalized care plans are also provided to meet residents’ unique needs and preferences, ensuring their recovery and wellness.
Pet therapy, fun gatherings, and a variety of activities encourage residents to explore new hobbies and gain meaningful experiences. Cozy lounges and beautiful gardens also ensure residents can rest and freely interact with their surroundings. Residents also experience a laid-back lifestyle with bus stops, shops, and restaurants nearby. This nursing home is one of the trusted options for senior living in Illinois, especially with its dedication to improving older adults’ well-being.
Citadel of Kankakee is a highly recognized nursing home in Kankakee, IL, offering rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and specialized care. With a nurturing and welcoming environment, the community ensures older adults can live comfortably in their later years. 24-hour nursing care, laundry and linen services, and full-service dining options are also provided to improve residents’ quality of life. Dedicated to residents’ recovery, a holistic, personalized approach to care is utilized based on their needs and habits.
Light physical activities and social gatherings allow residents to explore new interests and gain meaningful experiences. A lively dining room, state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment, and cozy lounges ensure residents can rest and freely interact with their surroundings. Residents also have quick access to their necessities and leisure, as it is conveniently located near Riverside Medical Center and the Kankakee River. This nursing home continuously provides exceptional care for older adults’ welfare, making it a great choice for senior living in Illinois.
Located in Chicago, IL, Astoria Place provides rehabilitation services, short-term rehab, and respite care. Respite care allows for a short stay when a family’s usual caregiver needs to travel or recover, while 24-hour staffing ensures residents have access to care around the clock.
Rehabilitation services and short-term rehabilitation give residents access to a range of care. Specific programs are also available, including a Russian and Cantonese Program, Enrichment Activities, and Concierge services.
Astoria Place has 164 beds, creating a setting with more residents, staff, and usually more programming than a smaller home. Its 94% occupancy means most beds are filled, while total nurse staffing of 2 hours and 20 minutes per resident per day represents the daily hands-on nursing time allocated to each resident.
In the West Ridge neighborhood, a Walk Score of 92 places the area in the walker’s paradise band, where daily errands do not require a car, so a resident who no longer drives can get out independently to complete daily errands. Moreover, payment options include Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay.
Warren Barr Gold Coast provides nursing home care and skilled nursing care in Chicago, Illinois. Skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock for residents who need ongoing clinical oversight. Short term rehabilitation offers a temporary recovery stay with the goal of returning home, including orthopedic and cardiac rehabilitation.
The community also provides post transplant care, pulmonary care, specialized wound care, peritoneal dialysis, LVAD management and inotropes. Those services can suit a resident whose care plan includes one of these specialized needs. Warren Barr Gold Coast has 271 beds, so the home includes more residents, staff and usually more programming than a smaller home, with total nurse staffing of 2 hours and 54 minutes per resident each day. Payment options are Medicare, Medicaid and private pay: Medicare can apply to short term skilled care after a hospital stay, Medicaid can help cover a longer stay when savings do not cover it, and private pay allows direct payment. Warren Barr Gold Coast may be a good fit for someone who needs short term rehabilitation or specialized nursing care.
Greeting seniors with peace and vibrancy, Bella Terra Wheeling is a trusted senior living community in Wheeling, IL where personal attention and progressive medical care go hand in hand in this community. For post-hospital rehabilitation or residential skilled nursing care, this community offers the perfect environment for recovery and comfort. With a dedicated, attentive team and a beautifully designed campus, residents enjoy an atmosphere that promotes healing and enhances the quality of life.
With extensive amenities and services, residents have more opportunities to mingle with friends and maintain an active lifestyle. Moreover, this community provides cardiac programming, an inotropes program, physical, occupational and speech therapy. Bella Terra Wheeling strives to create a haven for seniors to make every moment of their best years memorable while having a premiere care experience.
Overview of Prairie Manor Rehabilitation & Healthcare
Prairie Manor Rehabilitation & Healthcare is a nursing home in Chicago Heights, IL, offering memory care, rehabilitation, and skilled nursing. Here, older adults can keep their peace of mind, especially with a comfortable and home-like environment. Excellent services, including housekeeping, laundry, and nutritious meals, are also provided to help enrich residents’ living experiences. The community is also committed to meeting residents’ needs and preferences, providing individualized care plans for their recovery.
Card games, social events, and light exercises provide residents with more opportunities to explore new interests and make friends. An ice cream parlor, a salon, and a spacious outdoor patio also foster interactions and relaxation. Residents also experience a stress-free retirement, as it is conveniently located in the quiet residential area of Chicago Heights. This nursing home has exceptional standards of care, making it a good option for senior living in Illinois.
Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports. Rank badges compare each home against other nursing homes in the same state — never against assisted living, memory care, or independent living communities.
How we're paid:If we help you find a home and you move in, that home may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
Avg Overall CMS Rating:2.5/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Illinois. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating:2.1/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Illinois. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average:3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating:2.7/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Illinois. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Illinois
What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in Illinois?
Assisted living in Illinois is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.
Does Illinois Medicaid cover nursing home care?
Yes — Illinois Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.
What is nursing home care?
Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.
How many nursing homes are listed on this page?
This page features 191 nursing homes in Illinois. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.
How do I choose the right nursing home in Illinois?
Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Illinois, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.
What should I look for when visiting nursing homes in Illinois?
Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.
If you move into a community through us, that community may pay us a referral fee. This never changes your cost or which options we recommend. Learn more
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