“Quality of Life” is a broad term that can include many things from health and safety to arts and education. However you define it, “Quality of Life” matters, as people want to live and work in attractive, clean areas with abundant recreational and cultural opportunities. South Central Illinois’ spectacular landscape, recreation and historic resources, along with friendly communities are just a few reasons for companies looking to locate, expand or start-up.
Home of 
the largest man made lake in Illinois, South Central Illinois offers a quality of life second to none. Fishing, hunting and boating opportunities abound not only at Carlyle Lake, but at several other state parks, lakes and rivers located within the region. Additional recreational activities range from award winning golf courses to biking and hiking trails. And, the region’s proximity to the St. Louis metro area allows residents to enjoy the many cultural, educational and entertainment activities while maintaining a more relaxed, rural lifestyle.
South Central Illinoisans have united to make this region a better place to live and for business to prosper. From quality educational institutions to low crime rates, low cost utilities, and affordable housing, South Central Illinois is a great place to live and work. Important from a citizen’s as well as a business perspective is access to higher education, low cost of living, and a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities, all of which South Central Illinois offers abundantly. The SCIGA area’s excellent quality of life is an important reason businesses choose to locate and expand in the region.