Community Facts

"The twin cities of Champaign and Urbana rise -- though not very high -- from the cornfields of central Illinois. With no dramatic beachfront or mountainscape ... the two towns are unlikely competitors to the hip, scenic enclaves that are becoming computer-age boomtowns.  But for researchers and programmers who are interested in serious computing, these plain plains are the place to be ... Today Champaign-Urbana has more supercomputing power -- "Big Iron" -- than any other university in the United States."
excerpted from Newsweek, 11/9/98. "Where Wired Is  A Way Of Life"

"What is it that draws -- and keeps -- people in Champaign County?  In a phrase, quality of life -- in a variety of aspects. The 998 square miles of the county include Champaign-Urbana, the commercial hub of the county and the largest population center, at nearly 100,000 residents.  In these twin cities, homes for every family size, income level, and lifestyle are available ... It's the blending of these facets that produces Champaign County's unique qualities. The combination of visitors and residents adding their substance to the area is evident in the many cultures here -- from turn-of-the-century German immigrants who settled in the northern and eastern parts of the county to more recent arrivals including a large number of students, faculty, and researchers from other parts of the globe ... true to its history, [Champaign County] continues to be always warm and welcoming."
excerpted from Champaign County Chamber of Commerce booklet, "Champaign County"

Did You Know?
... A group from Champaign-Urbana sang the original theme song to "Gilligan's Island."
... According to Restaurant Index in 1992, residents of Champaign-Urbana ate out more than anyone in the country.
... Champaign-Urbana is thought to be the only community in the country with a monument dedicated to its Olympic athletes.
... George Will, Roger Ebert, Allison Kraus, and Bonnie Blair are all native to Champaign-Urbana.

Local Shopping: Info for malls, markets and stores in the Champaign - Urbana area.

Religious organizations, annual events: Listings of various religious organizations and special annual events.

GLBT Resources: Campus and community websites, organizations, and support systems for gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender students, faculty, and staff, as well as Allies.

Champaign - Urbana Services: Banks, restaurants, and radio stations.

Community Links: Listing of collections of Champaign - Urbana links.