Lee County Public RecordsIllinois

Lee County, IL, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. In 2022, the county reported a total of 185 crimes, including 18 violent crimes and 167 property crimes, according to FBI data. The violent crime rate is approximately 1.1 per 1,000 residents, while property crime stands at 10.6 per 1,000. Law enforcement agencies in Lee County encourage timely reporting, contributing to effective crime reduction and community safety programs. Overall, residents generally experience a safe environment, though continued vigilance and community engagement are promoted.

Lee County, IL has 19 public schools serving about 4,300 students, with a high school graduation rate of 90% and around 22% of adults holding a bachelor’s degree or higher. The Dixon Public Schools district, the largest in the county, averages a 21 ACT score. School safety programs and resource officers are in place, and adult education is offered through Sauk Valley Community College. The county provides diverse educational programs, including advanced placement and STEM initiatives, with generally favorable school ratings according to GreatSchools.

As of 2022, Lee County, IL has an employment rate of approximately 60%, with 15,700 people in the labor force. The largest industries are manufacturing (21%), health care/social assistance (14%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupation types include production (15%), office/administrative support (13%), and management (11%). Around 78% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes; 24% work outside the county, primarily traveling to adjacent counties such as Whiteside and Ogle.

Lee County, IL has a homeownership rate of around 75%, with median home values near $130,000. Median rent is approximately $750/month. The market has seen modest value increases of about 4% year-over-year. Housing consists mainly of single-family homes, with some duplexes and small apartment complexes, especially in Dixon and Amboy neighborhoods. Property taxes average 2% of assessed home value, slightly above the national average. The area offers quiet residential communities, with larger lots, and good access to local schools and parks, attracting both families and retirees.

As of the 2020 Census, Lee County, IL, had a population of approximately 34,145. The median age was about 43.2 years. Gender distribution was nearly even, with females making up 50.4% and males 49.6%. The county was predominantly White (87.7%), with Hispanic or Latino residents accounting for 7.6%, Black or African American 2.5%, and other races, including Asian and multiracial individuals, making up the remainder.

Lee County, IL, with approximately 22,000 registered voters as of 2024, participates in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 presidential race, about 62% voted Republican, 36% Democrat. The County Clerk's office administers elections, overseeing 32 polling locations across the county. Voter turnout typically ranges from 60%–75% in general elections. Key issues include agriculture, taxation, and rural infrastructure. Lee County's political landscape is predominantly Republican, but both major parties are active in registration drives and candidate endorsements.