Illinois’ Friendliest Place for 2026 Has Just 589 People

The old saying that size doesn't matter might be true, but I think in the case of the friendliest place in Illinois for 2026 it at least plays a role as the number one choice only has 589 people living there.

This brand new ranking just shared by NextDoor names the friendliest places in Illinois for 2026. There are a lot of interesting communities that made their list this year like Galena and Sleepy Hollow, but I'm most taken back by the tiny village at #1.

Congratulations to little ole Davis, Illinois, the friendliest place in Illinois for 2026. According to Wikipedia, Davis, Illinois was established way back in 1850 when the railroad route was extended named for one of its founders, S. J. Davis. If you're not familiar with Davis, it's located in the extreme northern part of Illinois in Stephenson County.

Why was the tiny village of Davis named the friendliest place in Illinois?

NextDoor praised Davis for its "beautiful lake views and safe, quiet neighborhoods...strong sense of community and the town's walkability". When you live in a town of just 589 people, everyone knows everybody which is a good thing. You know your neighbors will have your back when nearly everyone is on a first name basis in town. It's almost like a throwback to the town of Mayberry on the Andy Griffith Show and that's a very good (and friendly) thing.