Here are the best Illinois cities to study barbering and cosmetology, with why each is a good choice and quick next steps.

Top cities (why they stand out)

• Chicago — largest selection of accredited schools and specialty programs (Paul Mitchell, Aveda, Cannella, Tricoci, independent academies), strong client flow for student clinics, plentiful salons/shops for externships and jobs. (paulmitchell.edu)
• Rockford — multiple established programs (Tricoci and other regional schools), lower living costs than metro Chicago while still offering local industry connections. (tricociuniversity.edu)
• Elgin / Schaumburg (Chicagoland suburbs) — accessible satellite campuses (Cosmetology & Spa Academy, G Skin & Beauty, Paul Mitchell nearby), good for suburban students and commuting from NW suburbs. (cosmetologyandspaacademy.edu)
• Peoria — regional Tricoci and community-college-affiliated programs with hands-on clinics and local employer networks. (tricociuniversity.edu)
• Bloomington–Normal — established local institutes (Hairmasters, community programs) and lower costs; good if you want a smaller-town training environment. (beautyschools.com)
• Quad Cities (Moline/Rock Island) — technical college and private-program options (Midwest Technical Institute) serving the western Illinois market. (cosmetologyschoolsnearme.org)
• Champaign–Urbana — school options and proximity to a large university population for steady clinic clients and part-time work. (beautyschools.com)
• Springfield / Joliet / Aurora (central & S/W suburbs) — state-capital access (Springfield) and growing suburban markets with community-college and private programs; good for networking inside Illinois. (idfpr.illinois.gov)

What makes these cities “best”

• Number and variety of accredited programs (cosmetology, barbering, esthetics, nails, teacher training). (beautyschools.com)
• Strong student clinic/client flow and local salon/barber-shop job opportunities (especially Chicago). (paulmitchell.edu)
• More options for flexible schedules (part-time, evening, accelerated) and community-college pathways in many regions. (tricociuniversity.edu)

Important licensing facts to check before you enroll

• Illinois licensing is overseen by the Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation (IDFPR). Barber vs. cosmetologist have different training-hour and eligibility rules (verify required hours and exam process). Always confirm a school is approved and meets IDFPR requirements. (idfpr.illinois.gov)

How to choose the right city/school (quick checklist)

1. Confirm the program you want is offered (barbering vs. cosmetology vs. esthetics). (beautyschools.com)
2. Verify school accreditation and IDFPR approval. (idfpr.illinois.gov)
3. Compare clinic hours, externship/job-placement help, instructor experience, class size, and equipment. (paulmitchell.edu)
4. Factor living/commute cost, transportation, and whether you need part-time scheduling.
5. Visit campuses, sit in a class if possible, and speak with recent grads or current students.

If you want, I can:

• Pull together a short list of accredited schools in one or two specific cities (addresses, program hours, and estimated tuition).
• Compare 2–3 schools you’re interested in by program length, cost, and IDFPR approval.

Which city (or two) are you considering so I can tailor a school list?