Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Christian County, IL had a population of 34,032. The median age was 42.4 years, with 49.2% male and 50.8% female residents. The racial composition was predominantly White (94.4%), followed by Black or African American (1.7%), two or more races (2%), and other races, including Asian (0.4%). Hispanic or Latino individuals made up 1.7% of the population.

Elections

As of 2024, Christian County, IL has about 21,000 registered voters. Residents participate in general, primary, and local elections, with turnout typically around 60% in presidential years. In 2022, Republicans received 58% of the vote in countywide races, while Democrats garnered 41%. Voters cast ballots at 24 polling locations administered by the County Clerk's Office. Key concerns include property taxes and school funding. The area is politically competitive but leans Republican. Election administration emphasizes security, using bipartisan judges from both major parties to oversee the voting process and ensure transparency.

Education, Employment and Housing

Christian County, Illinois, has 16 public schools serving approximately 4,300 students, including high schools like Taylorville High School. About 88% of adults have a high school diploma, while around 12% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s average school test score is 46% (below the Illinois average of 50%). School safety measures are in place, and a variety of educational programs support students’ needs. Adult education is available through regional community colleges, offering GED and vocational training opportunities for residents.

As of 2022, Christian County, IL has an employment rate of approximately 55.5%. Major employment sectors include Health Care & Social Assistance (17.3%), Manufacturing (13.7%), and Retail Trade (12.4%). The most common occupations are Office & Administrative Support (12.8%), Management (10.9%), and Production (10.7%). About 83% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 22.1 minutes; nearly 41% work within the county, while many travel to Springfield or Decatur for employment opportunities.

Christian County, IL, has a median home value of approximately $97,000, with around 74% of residents owning homes and 26% renting. The median rent is about $730 per month. The county mostly features single-family homes, with some multi-family units in towns like Taylorville and Pana. Home values have seen modest growth of 3–5% per year recently. Popular neighborhoods include downtown Taylorville and rural communities. Property taxes average 2.1% of assessed value, leading to an average annual tax bill of roughly $2,000. The housing market is generally stable and affordable compared to statewide averages.

County Crime & Safety

Christian County, IL, has a crime rate slightly above the national average, with recent statistics showing a violent crime rate of about 3.9 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 15.4 per 1,000 residents. Law enforcement agencies in the county emphasize community policing and encourage prompt reporting of suspicious activities. While Taylorville, the county seat, sees the highest crime occurrences, overall crime has declined by roughly 13% in the past five years. Residents are advised to remain vigilant, and local authorities continue to enhance safety measures and public awareness.