Sea level (average sea level) is the start point for measuring elevation on this planet and is considered to be the same everywhere. Chicago, however, is not at sea level; rather its mean elevation is 586 feet (179 meters) above sea level.
The average elevation above sea level in Chicago, Illinois is about 594 feet (181 meters).
Charles Mound, located in northwestern Illinois, has the state's highest elevation at 1,235 feet above sea level.
Pekin, Illinois is 518 feet (158 meters) above sea level
Carbondale, Illinois is 415 feet (126.5 meters) above sea level
Chicago is 597 feet (182 meters) above sea level
Charles Mound, located in northwestern Illinois, has the state's highest elevation at 1,235 feet above sea level. The lowest point in Illinois is on the Mississippi River at 279 feet above sea level.
Chicago lies on the shore of Lake Michigan. The highest point, at 735 feet (224 m), is at a landfill located in the Hegewisch community area on the city's far south side.
Salem Illinois is 530 feet above sea level.
Athens, Illinois is 602 feet (183 meters) above sea level
La Grange Illinois is 656 feet above sea level
Rockton, Illinois is 738 feet (225 meters) above sea level
Aurora, Illinois is 722 feet (220 meters) above sea level