Brown County Public RecordsIllinois

As of the 2020 Census, Brown County, Illinois, had a population of 6,244. The median age was 42.4 years. About 52% of residents were male and 48% female, partially influenced by the presence of a correctional facility. The racial composition was primarily White (87.5%), followed by Black or African American (9.0%), and smaller percentages of other groups. Hispanic or Latino residents made up 1.6% of the population.

Brown County, IL, with about 4,800 residents, registers roughly 3,200 voters. Elections include local, state, and federal, with recent turnout of 65% in the 2022 general election. Polling locations include Mt. Sterling, Versailles, and Time. The 2020 election saw 68% voting Republican, 30% Democrat. Key issues include rural infrastructure and agriculture. The County Clerk’s office oversees administration. The Republican and Democratic parties dominate, though independents participate. Administration emphasizes secure, accessible voting through a mix of early, mail-in, and in-person options.

Brown County, IL, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported approximately 40 crimes, including 5 violent crimes and 35 property crimes, reflecting a crime rate of about 6.5 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement actively promotes community engagement and encourages prompt reporting, which supports efficient crime resolution. Brown County’s safety initiatives and low population contribute to its reputation as a secure area.

Brown County, IL, has one public school district, Brown County Community Unit School District 1, serving about 851 students with schools including Brown County High School. The high school graduation rate is approximately 88%, but only around 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s average school rating is 5/10, per GreatSchools. Safety measures and programs such as vocational and dual-credit courses are offered, emphasizing college and career readiness. Adult education opportunities are available through nearby community colleges, supporting lifelong learning for residents.

As of 2022, Brown County, IL, has an employment rate of about 59.2%. Major industries include public administration (notably housing the Western Illinois Correctional Center), health care, retail trade, and education. Leading occupations are in office/administrative support (17.1%), management, and sales. About 78% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 24 minutes. Most residents work within the county, while some commute to neighboring Adams and Schuyler counties.

Brown County, IL, has a homeownership rate of around 78%, with median home values near $99,000 and average rents about $720 monthly. Housing types are predominantly single-family homes, with some duplexes and limited apartments, mainly in Mount Sterling, the largest town. Recent market trends show slight property value increases, roughly 2% annually. Neighborhoods are primarily rural and suburban, offering spacious lots. Property taxes average 1.7% of home value, translating to about $1,680 per year on the median home, making Brown County an affordable option for both buyers and renters seeking a small-town lifestyle.