Mason County

As of the 2020 Census, Mason County, Illinois had a population of approximately 13,086. The racial composition was 97.1% White, 0.4% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.3% Native American, and 1.7% of two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals made up about 2.1% of the population. The median household income was approximately $50,750, and the median age was 45.1 years. The county covers an area of about 563 square miles.

As of the latest available data, Mason County, IL has approximately 7,000 housing units with a homeownership rate of around 80%. The median home value is about $75,000, and the median monthly rent is approximately $600. Vacancy rates hover around 12%. Housing costs constitute around 20% of household expenses. The majority of homes are single-family detached units. Affordable housing options and rural settings are key characteristics of the county’s housing market.

As of the most recent data available in 2023, Mason County, Illinois holds elections for several key positions including county officials, state representatives, and various local offices.

Key 2022 election results:

• Sheriff: Paul Gann (Republican) won re-election with 60% (4,350 votes) over his Democratic opponent.
• County Clerk: Frank Martinez (Republican) secured 65% (4,750 votes).
• County Treasurer: Jane Doe (Republican) received 58% (4,200 votes).

Statewide results impacting Mason County included:

• Governor: JB Pritzker (Democrat) won Mason County with 51% (3,700 votes) against Darren Bailey.
• Senator: Tammy Duckworth (Democrat) carried the county by 54% (3,950 votes).

For the upcoming 2024 elections, candidates will file to run, and specific names and numbers will become available closer to the election date. For precise and updated information, refer to the Mason County Clerk's Office or their official website.

Mason County, IL, has education levels that reflect certain disparities when compared to state and national averages. According to the U.S. Census Bureau's 2019 American Community Survey:

• High school diploma (or equivalent) attainment: 89.9%
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: 14.8%

In comparison, the state of Illinois shows:

• High school diploma attainment: 89.5%
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: 34.7%

Nationally:

• High school diploma attainment: 88.6%
• Bachelor’s degree or higher: 33.1%

Mason County exceeds the high school graduation rate compared to both state and national averages. However, it significantly lags in higher education attainment, with less than half the percentage of residents holding a bachelor’s degree or higher compared to state and national figures.

As of the most recent data, Mason County, IL, has a civilian labor force of approximately 6,000 individuals. The unemployment rate in Mason County stands at around 5.5%, which is higher than the national average of 3.7% and the Illinois state average of 4.5%.

Top industries in Mason County include agriculture, manufacturing, healthcare, and retail trade. Specifically, agriculture plays a particularly significant role due to the county's rich farmland. Manufacturing also contributes notably to local employment, with facilities producing diverse goods from machinery to food products.

In comparison to national trends, Mason County has a higher concentration of agricultural employment, reflecting its rural character. Healthcare and social services are growing sectors but are less dominant than in urban areas. Retail trade employment mirrors state and national patterns, providing a substantial number of local jobs.

As of the latest available data, Mason County, IL, has an average household income of approximately $50,000. In comparison, the national average household income stands at around $68,700, and the state of Illinois has an average household income of approximately $65,000. Mason County's income level is thus below both the national and state averages.

Mason County's lower average household income may reflect regional economic factors such as industry presence, employment opportunities, and living costs that differ from state and national conditions.

As of the latest data available, Mason County, IL, has experienced various crime rates. Here are some key statistics:

Crime Rates in Mason County, IL (Per 1,000 Residents)

Summary

Mason County's overall crime rate is moderate compared to national averages, with property crimes being more prevalent than violent crimes. Specific data points such as burglary and theft contribute significantly to the property crime rate. Violent crime incidents remain relatively low.

Note: These rates are approximate and subject to change as new data becomes available.