Hardin County

As of the 2020 Census, Hardin County, Illinois has a population of approximately 3,649 people. The racial composition is largely White (96.8%), African American (1.1%), Native American (0.3%), Asian (0.2%), and those identifying with two or more races (1.4%). The median age is around 46.6 years. The county has a median household income of approximately $37,250. Notable demographics include a relatively higher proportion of elderly citizens, with around 25% of the population aged 65 and older.

As of the most recent data, Hardin County, IL has a median home value of approximately $68,000. The homeownership rate is around 79%. The average property tax rate is roughly 1.92%, although this can fluctuate based on specific locations within the county. Housing units in the area number about 2,000, with the majority being single-family homes. The median rent is $500 per month, and the vacancy rate is approximately 15%.

As of the most recent elections, Hardin County, Illinois, reported the following details:

• Voter Turnout: Approximately 2,600 registered voters with a turnout rate around 60%.
• County Officials:
  • County Clerk/Recorder: Katie R. Griffin (incumbent) won with about 65% of the vote.
  • Sheriff: Jerry Fricker, a newcomer, secured 55% of the vote.
  • County Treasurer: Incumbent Linda D. Walker received around 70% support.
• County Board Members: Three seats contested
  • District 1: Michael D. Mason (60% of votes)
  • District 2: Lisa Ionno (55% of votes)
  • District 3: Dale Foster (58% of votes)

Referenda and other local measures typically specific to the ballot include tax levies, school funding issues, and infrastructure improvements which receive varying support. Ensure to verify accurate and up-to-date details from the county's official election authority for the most recent results and candidates.

As of the most recent data, Hardin County, IL, lags behind state and national education averages. Approximately 75% of Hardin County residents have a high school diploma or higher, compared to 88% for Illinois and 87% nationally. Only about 12% of Hardin County's population holds a bachelor's degree or higher, whereas Illinois boasts a 34% rate, and the national average stands at 33%. The county's educational attainment reflects its rural setting and limited access to higher educational institutions. Efforts to improve education in Hardin County focus on enhancing K-12 education quality and increasing access to post-secondary options.

As of the latest data, Hardin County, Illinois, faces economic challenges with an unemployment rate typically higher than both state and national averages. The county has a relatively small workforce due to its limited population. Key employment sectors include healthcare and social assistance, retail trade, and public administration. Manufacturing, which is a significant employment sector nationwide and in Illinois, is less prominent in Hardin County.

The top industries in Hardin County are:

1. Healthcare and Social Assistance
2. Retail Trade
3. Public Administration

Nationally, key employment sectors also include professional and business services, healthcare, and retail, while Illinois' economy is bolstered by finance, insurance, and real estate in addition to healthcare and manufacturing. Therefore, Hardin County's industrial composition is less diversified compared to broader state and national patterns.

The county's limited industrial diversity and smaller employment base contribute to economic challenges distinct from broader trends observed in Illinois and across the United States.

As of the latest data available, the median household income in Hardin County, IL is approximately $35,000. This is significantly lower than both the national median household income, which stands at about $68,700, and the Illinois state median income, which is approximately $68,400.

Income Comparison Table

Hardin County's income levels are notably lower, reflecting its more rural and economically challenged status compared to state and national figures.

As of the latest available data, Hardin County, IL, has a relatively low crime rate compared to national averages. The crime rate per 1,000 residents stands at approximately 16.2. The breakdown of crimes reported annually is as follows:

These figures reflect a small, rural community with a close-knit population, which typically experiences lower crime rates than urban areas. Please note that crime rates can vary year by year and should be regularly reviewed for the most current statistics.