Illinois vs Massachusetts Earthquake Risk

Illinois has a higher earthquake risk with a score of 5/10 (Moderate) compared to Massachusetts at 3/10 (Low-Moderate). This means Illinois faces more frequent and potentially more destructive seismic events.

Illinois averages approximately 30 earthquakes per year, while Massachusetts averages about 5 per year. Illinois experiences roughly 25 more earthquakes annually.

Illinois is associated with New Madrid, Wabash Valley seismic zones. Massachusetts is associated with Cape Ann seismic zone. These fault systems determine the type and frequency of seismic activity each state experiences.

In Illinois, approximately 15% of the population lives in areas at risk from earthquakes, compared to 10% in Massachusetts. Illinois has a larger percentage of residents exposed to seismic hazard.

Illinois's most notable earthquake: 1968 Southern Illinois (M5.4). Massachusetts's most notable earthquake: 1755 Cape Ann (M6.0). These historical events illustrate the seismic potential of each state.