Our Community
Greater Peoria has a long and storied history with deep, international roots. This history is evident in our increasingly diverse community. Through the decades, our region has shown its resiliency and ability to adapt, innovate, and grow. This history has made Greater Peoria into a region with interwoven global connections and international appeal. From being the Whiskey Capital of the World to the foundation of the manufacturing giant, Caterpillar, to being the litmus test of acceptance in the country, our community truly represents the entire cultural potpourri of our nation. And yes, It Plays in Peoria.
Learn more about our region's talent attraction campaign and how you can Choose Greater Peoria
Learn more about the Greater Peoria's International Companies and Business Community.
Since Greater Peoria was first explored by the French, the French influence remains seen in the names of several towns and landmarks in the region, including the Village of Creve Coeur (site of the first European settlement in Illinois) and the Hotel Pere Marquette in downtown Peoria. Along with other cultural influences, our region has also seen tremendous growth in the Indian population, nearly doubling since 2010. This population has helped create a connected community of members through efforts such as the Asian Indian Community Collaboration of Peoria, which connects volunteers with public service opportunities.
The annual Passage to India, a cultural charity event benefiting Easterseals Central Illinois, has become a cherished gem in our region.
Our region’s strongest French investment comes from TRIGO-SCSI, which provides containment, logistics, and quality services to the most successful OEMs and suppliers. TRIGO-SCSI is also part of the Greater Peoria Manufacturing Network, a nimble eco-system of companies that rapidly scales with all of your manufacturing needs.
Sweden recently invested in Greater Peoria’s smart mobility cluster in the form of the acquisition of AutonomousStuff by Hexagon, a global leader in sensor, software, and autonomous solutions based in Stockholm.
Nestlé, the renowned Swiss multinational food processor, operates a world-leading pumpkin producer in Morton called Libby’s Pumpkin. Libby’s was founded in 1868 and now produces 80% of the canned pumpkin in the U.S. Morton is the self-proclaimed “pumpkin capital of the world.“
Adding to our Swiss connections are Bain Capital and Cinven investors in GP’s Industrial Corridor in Mapleton, IL which produces ingredients used in COVID-19 disinfectants.
Alongside Caterpillar, Komatsu is a global, heavy machinery leader with a strong presence in the Greater Peoria region. Partnering with Komatsu directly ties our region to Japan, a leading world player in manufacturing.
Greater Peoria is home to several successful industry-leading Indian-owned and operated businesses, big and small.
When you settle down in the Greater Peoria area, you’ll find that a high-quality lifestyle doesn’t come at a premium. Not only do we have affordable housing for families and individuals, but our quality commercial properties are also 43% lower than the national average. It is no wonder Greater Peoria is ranked 11th Best Affordable Places to Live in the United States by US News and World Reports. Greater Peoria also offers a balance of high median income and low housing prices. Our region is great for first-time homebuyers, as evidenced by being ranked the top affordable midsize metro for homebuyers by AdvisorSmith.
In Greater Peoria, you have a unique blend of urban and rural options for your leisure. Whether you want to walk up and down the scenic Grand View Drive, visit an orchard or revel in our downtown clubs, our region has got you covered. From axe throwing to rock climbing and mountain biking, to walking trails, Greater Peoria gives you options for things to do with your family or the wild night out for millennials. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a scenic afternoon stroll, the Peoria Area offers a very diverse selection of outdoor experiences. Visit Discover Peoria to learn more about our various attractions in the region.
Learn more about the vibrant social scene Kayla Phillips found in the Greater Peoria Area.
We are here to help. If you are looking to learn more about our community for relocation or business expansion purposes, or are just curious about this diverse community, reach out to us.
