If cost is an issue–and it sounds like it is–than UIC is your best bet. College is what you make of it; believe me. Plus, I’m from Chicago, so, yeah, I understand that UIC is not like the other two, which will offer a more traditional college experience. It’s not in the greatest area either, though campus itself is relatively safe. Like the other city schools (U of Chicago is the exception), there will be more non-traditional students (euphemism for “older”) and commuters.
On the other hand, UIC is a better school than many think. For instance, its English department is very strong.
I’m surprised you feel “meh” about all three schools. I don’t want to say too much about the other two because, well, it looks like you won’t be able to attend, but both are big-time, classic universities. Both have D1 sports, and both have traditional-age student bodies. In particular, I like Iowa State a lot. It is not second fiddle to U of Iowa. Iowa City might have a slight edge in terms of having a great college town, but Ames is also a great spot.