Jackson County Public RecordsIllinois

As of 2022, Jackson County, IL has a population of approximately 56,750. About 49% are male and 51% female. The median age is around 31 years, influenced by the presence of Southern Illinois University. Racially, the county is about 75% White, 15% Black or African American, 4% Asian, and 3% Hispanic or Latino. Other races and those of two or more races make up the remaining percentage, reflecting moderate diversity.

Jackson County, IL, experiences a moderate crime rate, with recent FBI data indicating a violent crime rate of about 3.8 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 19.4 per 1,000 residents—both slightly above state averages. The Sheriff’s Office and Carbondale Police regularly update crime statistics and encourage community reporting through tip lines and online forms. Overall, while crime exists, consistent law enforcement efforts are ongoing to enhance public safety and transparency.

Jackson County, IL, features 17 public schools and is served primarily by Carbondale Community High School District 165. About 88.2% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 33.4% have a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census). School safety rates align with state averages, and the average public school rating is 5/10 (GreatSchools). Southern Illinois University, located in Carbondale, boosts local adult education and offers extensive undergraduate and graduate programs. The county supports programs in STEM, arts, and career and technical education, enhancing student opportunities and workforce readiness.

As of 2023, Jackson County, IL has an employment rate of approximately 93.1%, with a labor force participation rate around 60%. The largest industries include education and health care (30%), retail trade (13%), and accommodation/food services (12%). Major occupations are management, business, science, and arts (34%), followed by service occupations (23%). About 71% of residents commute by car, and the average commute time is 19 minutes. Key employment centers include Carbondale and Murphysboro, with Southern Illinois University a major local employer.

Jackson County, IL, has a homeownership rate of around 54%, with median home values near $132,000 and typical monthly rents about $850. Property values have seen modest annual increases of 1-2%. Housing includes single-family homes, apartments, and student rentals, particularly near Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Popular neighborhoods include Arbor District and Giant City. Property tax rates average 2.1% of a home's value, resulting in annual taxes of roughly $2,800 for a median-priced home. The area is diverse, offering both affordable starter homes and larger properties.

Jackson County, IL, has over 38,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, with polling at 31 locations, including Carbondale Civic Center and Murphysboro Youth and Recreation Center. In the 2022 general election, voter turnout was 55%. Major parties are Democrat and Republican; recent results favored Democrats by 3-5%. The County Clerk oversees elections, implementing measures to expand early voting and address ballot access concerns. Key local issues include property taxes and university funding. Voters may register online, by mail, or in person at the Clerk’s Office.