Demographics

As of the 2020 U.S. Census, Cass County, Illinois, had a population of approximately 12,479. The median age was about 41.6 years. Females comprised 50.1% of the population while males were 49.9%. Racially, the county was 81.1% White, 2.6% Black or African American, 0.9% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 9.5% from other races; 17.6% identified as Hispanic or Latino.

Elections

Cass County, Illinois, has approximately 6,400 registered voters. Residents participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries, generals, and referenda. In the 2020 presidential election, over 65% voted Republican while about 33% supported Democrats. There are 12 polling locations managed by the Cass County Clerk’s office. Major issues include agricultural policy and local infrastructure. The county is overseen by bipartisan election judges and primarily features Republican and Democratic parties. Voter turnout typically ranges from 55% to 70% in general elections.

County Crime & Safety

Cass County, IL, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. According to recent FBI data, the county reported 1.2 violent crimes and 8.5 property crimes per 1,000 residents in 2022. Law enforcement agencies encourage prompt and transparent crime reporting, contributing to effective community policing. Public safety remains a priority, with Cass County Sheriff’s Office actively engaging in crime prevention and community awareness programs. Overall, residents experience a generally safe environment, with crime rates staying well below both state and national levels.

Education, Employment and Housing

Cass County, IL, has around 6 public schools, including high schools like Beardstown High School and Virginia High School. The high school graduation rate is about 85%, while roughly 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the state average. School safety measures are average, with no major incidents reported in recent years. Test scores generally align with state averages, with some achievement gaps. Adult education programs are limited but available through community initiatives. The county offers basic educational programs, but advanced placement and extracurricular options are fewer compared to larger urban districts.

As of 2022, Cass County, IL, had an employment rate of 59.5%. Leading industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (15.9%), Agriculture (14.5%), and Manufacturing (12.1%). The largest occupation types are Management, Business, Science & Arts (28.4%) and Production, Transportation & Material Moving (23.3%). About 77% of residents drive alone to work, with a mean commute time of 22.6 minutes. Major employment locations include Beardstown and Virginia, while many residents commute to neighboring counties such as Sangamon and Morgan.

Cass County, IL, has a homeownership rate of approximately 77%, higher than the national average, with a median home value around $97,000. The median gross rent is about $665 per month. Property values have remained relatively stable over the past five years. Housing types mainly include single-family homes, with some apartments in larger towns like Beardstown and Virginia. Popular neighborhoods include downtown Beardstown and Virginia’s residential streets. Property taxes average 1.9% of home value. The market is affordable, ideal for families and first-time buyers, with a modest selection of rental properties.