Chicago is famous for its vibrant downtown, thriving business hub, and iconic Loop. Yet, many of the heavy-hitting companies that contribute to Illinois’ economy operate just beyond the city limits. Tucked away in the suburbs, these massive organizations are driving innovation, generating jobs, and shaping industries worldwide.

This blog takes a closer look at the largest companies headquartered in Chicago’s suburbs, exploring why these locations are hotbeds for business growth and offering insights into what makes them tick. Whether you’re a job-seeker, a business professional, or simply curious about corporate power players, read on to discover the names shaping Chicago’s suburban economy.

Why Companies Are Flocking to Chicago’s Suburbs

The Appeal of Suburban Locations

The decision of many companies to situate their headquarters in suburbs such as Deerfield, Schaumburg, and Rosemont isn’t coincidental. The suburbs provide a compelling mix of affordability, convenient access to Chicago, and the advantage of a more spacious and less congested environment.

Suburban locations often offer companies the ability to design expansive corporate campuses while maintaining proximity to O’Hare International Airport, a critical logistical gateway. Additionally, suburban headquarters enable corporations to situate themselves closer to talent pools in surrounding communities, providing easier commutes for employees.

Expansion Opportunities and Cost Savings

Real estate in the suburbs generally comes with a much smaller price tag than space in downtown Chicago. These cost efficiencies allow businesses to allocate funds toward innovative research, employee development programs, or key business expansions.

Furthermore, the suburbs boast outstanding infrastructure. Well-maintained highways and public transit systems make accessibility relatively seamless, attracting employees, clients, and partners alike.

Now, let’s spotlight the giants that call Chicago’s suburbs their home base.

The Largest Employers Based in Chicago’s Suburbs

1. Abbott Laboratories (Headquarters: Abbott Park, IL)

Industry: Healthcare and Medical Devices

Revenue: $43 billion (2022)

Abbott Laboratories is one of the premier giants in Chicago’s suburban ecosystem. Headquartered in Abbott Park near Lake Bluff, this healthcare titan is a dominant figure in diagnostics, medical devices, and nutritional products. They played an instrumental role during the COVID-19 pandemic by producing rapid testing kits.

Abbott’s innovative contributions to healthcare and its commitment to global markets make it a sought-after employer, offering roles in engineering, R&D, and corporate leadership.

2. Reyes Holdings (Headquarters: Rosemont, IL)

Industry: Food & Beverage Distribution

Revenue: $36 billion (2022)

As one of the largest food and beverage distributors in the world, Reyes Holdings plays a critical role in keeping the supply chain moving. Headquartered in Rosemont, this global powerhouse combines operational excellence with a people-first approach.

Reyes Holdings focuses on innovation, sustainability, and efficiency in its distribution systems, ensuring top-tier service for customers. The company also invests heavily in the Rosemont community through job creation and impactful corporate social responsibility programs.

3. US Foods (Headquarters: Rosemont, IL)

Industry: Foodservice Distribution

Revenue: $34 billion (2022)

US Foods is one of the largest foodservice distributors in the United States, providing quality ingredients and solutions to restaurants, healthcare facilities, and hospitality businesses. Headquartered in Rosemont, the company plays a key role in supporting the foodservice industry with innovative products and services.

Rosemont’s location near Chicago offers US Foods the advantage of being close to a major transportation hub, ensuring efficient distribution nationwide.

4. Baxter International (Headquarters: Deerfield, IL)

Industry: Medical Products and Services

Revenue: $15 billion (2022)

Another healthcare titan based in Deerfield, Illinois is Baxter International. Driven to save and sustain lives globally, Baxter specializes in products like kidney dialysis machines and infusion therapies.

The company’s extensive research and manufacturing facilities also ensure strong career opportunities in engineering, data science, and operations.

5. Allstate Corporation (Headquarters: Northbrook, IL)

Industry: Insurance

Revenue: $52 billion (2022)

“Allstate, You’re in Good Hands” is one of the most recognizable slogans in American advertising. Headquartered in Northbrook, Allstate Corporation leads the insurance industry with its offerings in auto, home, and life insurance products.

Suburban Northbrook provides an exceptional environment for Allstate to host its sprawling campus, where the focus on employee well-being, collaboration, and learning is evident.

6. Discover Financial Services (Headquarters: Riverwoods, IL)

Industry: Financial Services

Revenue: $13 billion (2022)

The small village of Riverwoods is home to the headquarters of Discover Financial Services, the company behind the popular Discover credit card. A leader in digital banking and payment technologies, Discover exemplifies the power of Chicago’s suburbs to incubate cutting-edge industries.

Their headquarters reflect a modern, community-focused aesthetic, making them a standout brand within the region for job-seekers and financial innovators alike.

7. AbbVie (Headquarters: North Chicago, IL)

Industry: Biopharmaceuticals

Revenue: Over $58 billion (2022)

AbbVie is a global leader in the biopharmaceutical industry, known for its innovative approaches to treating complex health conditions. Headquartered in North Chicago, the company drives advancements in areas like immunology, oncology, and neuroscience.

AbbVie’s state-of-the-art campus fosters collaboration and innovation, with facilities designed to support cutting-edge research while promoting employee well-being.

8. Zurich North America (Headquarters: Schaumburg, IL)

Industry: Insurance

Revenue: Over $35 billion (Group Revenue, 2022)

Zurich North America stands as one of the biggest property and casualty insurance providers in the United States. Situated in Schaumburg, their iconic HQ is the heart of their U.S. operations.

Zurich’s Schaumburg office serves as a model campus, incorporating state-of-the-art architecture touted as both worker-friendly and energy-efficient.

How Suburban Headquarters Impact Local Economies

These companies do much more than generate revenue and advertise products. Their presence contributes profoundly to suburban development, attracting talent, improving infrastructure, and supporting small businesses such as retail stores and restaurants near headquarters campuses. The knock-on effects of their investments are an essential part of why Chicago’s suburbs remain a magnet for corporate leaders.

Community Investment

Many of these large employers also make significant investments in their surrounding communities. From sponsorships of local events to contributions to schools and charities, these companies understand the importance of giving back.

Final Thoughts

The largest companies based in Chicago’s suburbs don’t just fuel the local economy—they’re powerhouses making waves on national and global levels. From healthcare giants to financial service leaders, these businesses embody the innovative energy and limitless potential of Chicagoland’s surrounding areas.

Whether you’re scouting top employers or eyeing strategic business opportunities, Chicago’s suburbs are a thriving hub of creativity and economic growth.

For real estate pros or anyone planning a business expansion in the area, understanding the influence of these suburban HQs is crucial. These companies aren’t just shaping global markets—they’re building stronger communities and redefining what’s possible in the Midwest.