Calhoun County Public RecordsIllinois

As of the 2020 Census, Calhoun County, Illinois, had a population of 4,437. The median age was approximately 48.3 years, indicating an older demographic. Gender distribution was nearly even, with 50.1% male and 49.9% female. The county is predominantly White (over 97%), with small percentages of Black or African American (<1%), and Hispanic or Latino (about 1.2%). Other races and ethnic groups collectively comprise less than 2% of the population.

Calhoun County, IL, has one high school—Calhoun High School—along with two elementary schools, serving a small rural population. About 88% of adults hold a high school diploma, while 15% have a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census Bureau, 2022). Average standardized test scores are near state averages. The student-to-teacher ratio is approximately 10:1, supporting individualized instruction. School safety incidents are rare, and the district offers vocational and agricultural education programs. Adult education opportunities are limited locally, but online and regional resources are available.

As of 2022, Calhoun County, IL had an employment rate of 54.5%, with approximately 1,610 residents employed. The primary industries are Agriculture, Forestry, Fishing & Hunting (17%), Health Care & Social Assistance (13%), and Retail Trade (11%). Most common occupations are in Management (22%), Sales (15%), and Office & Administrative Support (13%). Over 77% of workers commute to jobs outside the county, with an average commute time of 32 minutes. Major employment destinations include Jersey and Madison Counties.

Calhoun County, IL, has a homeownership rate of about 83%, well above the national average, with median home values near $120,000 (2022). Rental housing is limited, making up around 12% of occupied units, with median gross rent of approximately $650 monthly. Most homes are single-family houses, often historic or rural-style; multi-family options are rare. Major neighborhoods include Hardin and Brussels, known for their small-town charm. Property taxes average 1.9% of home value, resulting in an annual property tax of about $2,280 for a median-priced home. The market remains stable, with modest year-over-year value increases.

Calhoun County, IL, with about 3,800 residents, had 2,720 registered voters in the 2022 general election. Elections include primaries, generals, and local referendums. In 2020, the county voted 78% Republican and 21% Democrat in the presidential race. Key issues center on local agriculture and flood management. Polling locations include Hardin Village Hall and Batchtown Hall. The County Clerk’s office administers elections. Republican and Democratic parties are present, with Republicans dominant in recent years. Turnout typically ranges from 55% to 70% of registered voters in major elections.

Calhoun County, IL, reports relatively low crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2022, the county recorded an estimated 36 total criminal incidents, with property crime comprising the majority. Violent crime rates remain low, with fewer than 10 reported cases annually. The overall crime rate is approximately 6.8 per 1,000 residents, significantly lower than Illinois’s statewide average of 17.6. Local law enforcement maintains regular reporting through the Illinois State Police and FBI Uniform Crime Reporting systems, contributing to transparent public safety tracking and preventative efforts.