Macon County Public RecordsIllinois

Macon County, IL, is home to around 30 public schools, including six high schools. Approximately 89% of adults have a high school diploma, while 24% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school test score is 35% (compared to the Illinois average of 49%). School safety measures include resource officers and anti-bullying programs. Educational offerings include advanced placement, career-technical education, and adult learning initiatives provided by Richland Community College. Graduation rates in the county average 78%.

As of 2022, Macon County, IL had an employment rate of 55.9%. Major industries include Health Care & Social Assistance (24.7%), Educational Services (14.2%), and Manufacturing (12.3%). Top occupations are Office & Administrative Support (13.5%) and Production (11.8%). The median commute time is 17.8 minutes, with 84.2% commuting by car. About 75% of workers are employed within the county, notably in Decatur—the largest city and economic hub. Unemployment rates have ranged from 7.2% to 6.1% over the past year.

Macon County, IL, features a homeownership rate of approximately 68%, with a median home value around $114,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is about $820 per month. Popular housing types include single-family homes and some multi-unit complexes, especially in Decatur and surrounding neighborhoods like Mt. Zion and Forsyth. Property values have remained relatively stable with modest annual growth (~1.5%). Property taxes average 2.22% of assessed value. Diverse neighborhoods offer varying affordability and amenities, attracting both families and retirees.

Macon County, IL, has approximately 68,000 registered voters (2022). Elections include federal, state, county, and local races, with turnout at 55% in the 2020 general election. The county operates 30+ polling locations and offers early voting and mail-in options. Results in 2020 favored Republicans for president (Trump 55%, Biden 43%). Key issues include economic development and public safety. The County Clerk’s Office administers elections, maintaining compliance with state law. Both Democratic and Republican parties are active locally, with close legislative races and regular candidate forums encouraging civic engagement.

Macon County, IL, reported a crime rate of approximately 33.2 incidents per 1,000 residents in 2022. Violent crimes, including robbery and assault, accounted for around 4.4 per 1,000, while property crimes like burglary and theft were at 28.8 per 1,000. The county’s crime rate remains above the national average, with Decatur, its largest city, experiencing higher incidents. Residents are urged to report suspicious activity through local law enforcement or Crime Stoppers. Ongoing community initiatives and increased police presence aim to enhance safety and reduce crime rates.

As of 2020, Macon County, IL had a population of approximately 103,000. The median age is around 41 years. Females make up about 52% of the population, while males account for 48%. Racially, the county is 76% White, 18% Black or African American, 2% Hispanic or Latino, 1% Asian, and 3% multiracial or other groups.