countyscore
56.3
County Score
Safety 90.5Soil Quality 76Lawn Care 70.5

County Report Card

About McDonough County, Illinois

McDonough County Beats National Median

McDonough County achieves a strong composite score of 56.3, placing it well above the national median of 50.0. It ranks as a highly livable area by national standards.

A Top Performer in Illinois

With a score of 56.3, the county outperforms the Illinois state average of 52.8. It stands out as one of the more favorable residential locations in the state's interior.

Elite Safety and High Affordability

The county boasts an exceptional safety score of 90.5, one of the highest in the region. Housing is also very accessible, with a cost score of 65.3 and median rent at $730.

Income Levels and Water Quality

Income growth is a challenge with a score of 15.5, reflecting a median household income of $50,434. Water infrastructure also scores low at 20.3, suggesting a need for investment.

Perfect for Students and Peace-Seekers

This county is a premier choice for those who value personal safety above all else. It is ideal for students or those with fixed incomes who need exceptionally low living costs.

20406080100265.390.564.864.715.562.520.350Tax2Cost65.3Safety90.5Health64.8Schools64.7Income15.5Risk62.5Water20.3Weather5056.3/100
This county
National avg
5 above average3 below average

McDonough County DNA

Foverall

How McDonough County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

McDonough County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (90.5/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (2/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
2-50
Cost
65.3+17.299999999999997
Safety
90.5+35.5
Health
64.8+14.799999999999997
Schools
64.7+10.700000000000003
Income
15.5-35.5
Risk
62.5+15.5
Water
20.3-37.7
Weather
50
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in McDonough County?

Many homeowners in McDonough County pay more than they should. A professional appeal could save you hundreds per year.

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Can You Afford to Live Here?

Median Home Price

$103,500

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$730/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$103,500/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$29,200/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum2.1x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $50,434/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

11.1

per 100K

Data from Federal Reserve (FRED), U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard, and CMS NPPES.

Explore this county

Property Taxtaxbycounty.comCost of Livingcostbycounty.comIncome & Jobsincomebycounty.comSafetycrimebycounty.comHealthhealthbycounty.comSchoolsschoolsbycounty.comDisaster Riskriskbycounty.comWater Qualitywaterbycounty.comWeather & Climateweatherbycounty.comSoil Qualitysoilbycounty.comLawn Carelawnbycounty.comFarmers Marketsmarketsbycounty.comView on Mapcountyscore.com/map
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James City County
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Hardy County
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Nearby counties

Fulton County
Illinois
53.9
Schuyler County
Illinois
58.3
Warren County
Illinois
52.4
Henderson County
Illinois
61.7
Hancock County
Illinois
58.6
Des Moines County
Iowa
34.7
Brown County
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69.5
Knox County
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56.1

Deep Dives

McDonough County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 11 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in McDonough County

via TaxByCounty

McDonough County levies above-median taxes

McDonough County's effective tax rate of 2.162% ranks in the 71st percentile nationally, significantly exceeding the national median of 1.728%. The median property tax of $2,238 is 17% lower than the national median of $2,690, despite the elevated rate, due to lower home values of $103,500.

McDonough ranks high in Illinois

At 2.162%, McDonough County's effective tax rate is the second-highest in Illinois, exceeding the state average of 1.831% by 0.33 percentage points. The median property tax of $2,238 falls below the state median of $2,782, but the rate itself represents significant tax pressure.

Second-highest rate among peers

McDonough County's 2.162% rate edges out Mason County (2.146%) as the state's most burdensome, well above regional neighbors Marion County (1.707%) and Massac County (1.499%). This places McDonough among the most tax-intensive counties in central Illinois.

Budget $2,238 for annual property tax

On McDonough County's median home value of $103,500 and effective rate of 2.162%, homeowners pay approximately $2,238 in annual property taxes. This obligation can reach $2,268 when mortgage-related fees are included.

Assessment appeal could yield relief

McDonough County's elevated tax rate makes assessment accuracy paramount for cost-conscious homeowners. Submit a reassessment request to the McDonough County Assessor's office at no charge—correcting overvaluations is a straightforward path to lower taxes.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in McDonough County

via CostByCounty

McDonough faces Illinois's hardest affordability

McDonough County's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% is the highest among all Illinois counties reviewed and significantly above the national norm of ~15%. With a median household income of just $50,434—the lowest in this analysis—residents here face genuine affordability stress.

Illinois's most strained rental market

McDonough's 17.4% rent-to-income ratio far exceeds the Illinois state average of 14.7%, making it the most burdened county in this review. The gap signals that McDonough residents dedicate significantly more of their income to housing than their state peers.

Lowest income, highest burden

McDonough's median income of $50,434 is lowest among regional peers, yet its rent of $730/month creates a 17.4% burden—higher than all neighbors. This mismatch reveals structural affordability challenges: McDonough's housing costs are moderate, but incomes are too low to support them comfortably.

Housing dominates household budgets

McDonough residents earning $50,434 median income spend $730/month on rent (17.4%) or $832/month on homeownership (19.7%). These figures mean roughly one-third or more of gross income goes to housing, severely constraining budgets for food, healthcare, and savings.

McDonough demands careful planning

If considering McDonough County, understand that it faces Illinois's toughest affordability landscape with the lowest incomes and highest rent burden. Relocating here requires strong job prospects or significant savings; compare this reality to more affordable neighbors like Marion or Marshall before committing.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in McDonough County

via IncomeByCounty

McDonough faces steepest national income gap

McDonough County's median household income of $50,434 falls a striking $24,321 below the national median of $74,755, placing it in the bottom 25% of U.S. counties. McDonough families earn roughly 33% less than the typical American household—a substantial economic disadvantage tied to limited job opportunities.

McDonough ranks lowest among state counties

At $50,434, McDonough County trails Illinois's statewide median of $68,580 by $18,146, ranking it among the lowest-income counties in the state. This significant gap reflects an economy heavily dependent on lower-wage sectors and limited access to high-earning employment.

McDonough struggles significantly against peers

McDonough County ($50,434) earns far less than every peer county—Marion ($60,839), Mason ($62,127), Marshall ($69,818), and Madison ($74,800) all exceed it by $10,000–$24,000 per household. Its per capita income of $30,785 is the lowest among featured counties, indicating systemic earning constraints.

Housing affordability becomes critical lifeline

McDonough's rent-to-income ratio of 17.4% means renters spend roughly $730 monthly on housing—above the 15% county average but still manageable on limited incomes. Median home values of $103,500 make homeownership theoretically accessible, though lower household incomes make down payments and mortgage qualification challenging.

Strategic planning essential in tight budgets

McDonough households earning $50,434 must adopt zero-based budgeting to identify every savings opportunity—even $25 monthly in a dedicated account grows to $3,000 over a decade. Accessing free financial counseling through community nonprofits and maximizing any available tax credits (EITC) can meaningfully improve financial stability.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in McDonough County

via CrimeByCounty

Elite safety levels in McDonough County

McDonough County boasts an incredible safety score of 99.7. Its total crime rate of 179.0 per 100K is a tiny fraction of the national average of 2,385.5, making it one of the safest spots in the nation.

Leading the state in public safety

The county's crime rate is drastically lower than the Illinois average of 835.0. Its safety score of 99.7 far outpaces the state average of 98.7, placing it among the top performers in Illinois.

Safer than almost all neighbors

McDonough's crime rate of 179.0 is much lower than Mason County's 711.3. It is even lower than Marshall County's 553.7, cementing its status as a regional leader in low crime.

A total absence of violent crime

Six reporting agencies documented zero violent crimes per 100K in 2022. Every reported incident fell under property crime at 179.0, reflecting an exceptionally peaceful local environment.

Keep McDonough's safety record strong

Even with zero reported violent crime, protecting your belongings remains a priority. Use smart locks and community watch programs to help keep property theft rates at these record lows.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in McDonough County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Comprehensive System for Over 3,300 Students

McDonough County features 18 public schools across three districts, serving a total of 3,301 students. The landscape includes four elementary, four middle, and six high schools, plus several specialized facilities.

Academic Excellence and Above-Average Funding

The county achieves an 88.4% graduation rate, beating the national average of 87.0%. High spending of $10,144 per pupil contributes to an impressive composite school score of 59.5, surpassing the state average.

Macomb CUSD 185 Leads Local Education

Macomb CUSD 185 is the county's largest district, enrolling 2,036 students across five individual schools. West Prairie and Bushnell-Prairie City also provide vital services, and there are zero charter schools in the county.

Town-Centered Schools with Diverse Options

Thirteen schools are located in town settings, providing a central hub for student activity. While schools average 275 students, Macomb Senior High School offers a larger campus experience with 622 students.

Settle Near Award-Winning Town Schools

With strong academic scores and graduation rates, McDonough County is a top choice for education-focused buyers. Focus your home search in Macomb to be within walking distance of the county's premier high school and elementary campuses.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in McDonough County

via RiskByCounty

McDonough ranks well below state average

McDonough County's composite risk score of 37.53 places it in the Very Low risk category, significantly below Illinois's state average of 54.46. This makes McDonough one of the safer counties for natural disaster exposure in the state.

Among Illinois's lowest-risk counties

McDonough County ranks among the safest counties in Illinois, with exceptionally low wildfire risk (0.86) and flood risk (21.09). Its tornado risk of 52.00 remains below state averages, and earthquake exposure is moderate at 59.57.

Safest county in its region

McDonough County's composite score of 37.53 is notably lower than neighboring Mason County (43.03), Massac County (61.61), and especially Madison County (93.42). It ranks among the safest in west-central Illinois.

Tornado risk exceeds other hazards

McDonough County's tornado risk of 52.00 is its highest exposure, though still moderately below state averages. Earthquake risk of 59.57 is the only other concern of note, while flooding and wildfire risks are minimal.

Standard insurance typically suffices

McDonough County's low risk profile means standard homeowners insurance provides adequate coverage for most residents. Ensuring a designated safe room for tornado season and a basic preparedness plan addresses the county's primary natural hazard exposure.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in McDonough County

via WaterByCounty

High Violation Rates in McDonough County

McDonough County receives an F grade with 43 health violations recorded over the last five years. The violation rate of 129.7 per 100,000 residents is nearly triple the Illinois average.

Watershed Health Trails Behind State Average

About 44.6% of assessed water bodies in the county are impaired, surpassing the Illinois average of 38%. Phosphorus, mercury, and total suspended solids are the primary pollutants affecting local waters.

Active Water Quality Monitoring Efforts

Twelve monitoring sites have recorded 2,247 measurements over the last five years to track local conditions. The data collection focuses on inorganics, metals, and physical water parameters.

La Moine River Seeing Low Flows

The La Moine River at Colmar is flowing at 237 cfs, which is only 50% of its historical mean. This reduced flow can concentrate pollutants and strain local water supplies.

Enhanced Filtration Advised for Local Residents

Due to the high violation rate and watershed impairment, residents should consider using certified water filters. Regular testing is highly recommended for anyone relying on private wells.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in McDonough County

via WeatherByCounty

Consistent Temperate Weather in Western Illinois

McDonough County maintains an annual average of 51.5°F, slightly cooler than the national median. This region experiences the full range of four distinct seasons characteristic of the Midwest.

Cooler and Drier Than the Average

The county's 51.5°F average sits over a degree below the 52.8°F Illinois state average. Its annual precipitation of 38.8 inches is also about three inches less than the state benchmark.

Lighter Snowfall Than Northern Neighbors

At 15.9 inches of annual snow, McDonough gets less than half the snowfall of northern McHenry County. It shares a similar extreme heat profile with McLean, seeing about 26 days over 90°F.

Standard Midwestern Temperature Swings

January temperatures average 24.4°F, while July highs push the monthly average to 75.1°F. The county experiences roughly 26 days of extreme heat during the summer months.

Balanced Seasonal Home Maintenance

Prepare for moderate snowfall of 15.9 inches with basic winter gear. During the summer, maintain your A/C to handle nearly a month's worth of 90°F temperatures.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in McDonough County

via SoilByCounty

Reliable Central Illinois Soil

McDonough County averages a pH of 6.37, falling just below the national median and the state average. This slightly acidic profile is typical for the region and serves as a stable foundation for agricultural success.

Fine-Textured Silt Dominance

At 69.7%, the silt content here is among the highest in the region, providing a smooth, flour-like texture. With very little sand (7.4%), this soil excels at retaining nutrients but can be susceptible to erosion.

Superior Moisture Storage

The available water capacity of 0.214 in/in exceeds the state average of 0.204 in/in, acting as a buffer against drought. Organic matter is healthy at 2.45%, though it remains below the state average of 2.94%.

Monitoring Surface Water Flow

Dominant drainage classes and hydrologic groups are currently unlisted for the county's major soil types. With a respectable soil score of 76.0, the land is generally reliable, but local observation of water pooling is recommended.

Gardening Success in Zone 6a

McDonough County is in Zone 6a, a versatile climate for both root vegetables and fruit trees. The soil's high water capacity makes it especially forgiving for new gardeners during the drier summer months.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in McDonough County

via LawnByCounty

Stable Growing Conditions in McDonough

McDonough County presents a favorable 70.5 lawn difficulty score, beating out the state average of 69.8. Residents in Hardiness Zone 6a find it easier to keep their lawns green compared to much of the country.

Moderate Heat and Steady Rain

With 38.8 inches of rain and only 26 extreme heat days, the local climate is generally gentle on turf. This lower-than-average heat count means less summer stress for cool-season grasses compared to southern Illinois counties.

Heavy Clay Requires Aeration Efforts

The 6.37 soil pH provides a welcoming environment for standard fertilizers and amendments. However, a low sand content of 7.4% means the soil relies heavily on its 22.9% clay composition, which can lead to slow drainage.

Persistent Drought Challenges Homeowners

Drought has been a persistent issue here, with 39 weeks of dry conditions over the last year. With nearly 93% of the county in severe drought, prioritize watering the most visible or valuable areas of your lawn to conserve water.

Planting Windows for Zone 6a

The window for spring seeding opens on April 17th, once the threat of frost has passed. Kentucky bluegrass and perennial ryegrass thrive here if they are well-rooted before the first fall frost on October 22nd.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is McDonough County's county score?
McDonough County, Illinois has a composite county score of 56.3 out of 100 on CountyScore. This score is calculated from a weighted average of available data dimensions including property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools.
How does McDonough County rank among counties in Illinois?
McDonough County ranks #37 among all counties in Illinois on CountyScore's composite ranking. Rankings are based on available data dimensions and updated as new data is added.
What are property taxes like in McDonough County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in McDonough County is $2,238, with an effective tax rate of 2.16%. This earns McDonough County a tax score of 2/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in McDonough County?
The median household income in McDonough County, Illinois is $50,434 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. McDonough County earns an income score of 15.5/100 on CountyScore.
Is McDonough County, Illinois a good place to live?
McDonough County scores 56.3/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #37 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate McDonough County is to compare individual dimension scores — property tax, cost of living, income, safety, health, and schools — based on your personal priorities. Use CountyScore to compare McDonough County with other counties side by side.
By Logan Johnson, Founder & Data EditorUpdated Reviewed by Logan Johnson, Founder & Data Editor

ByCounty Network

Property TaxCost of LivingIncome & JobsSafetyHealthSchoolsDisaster RiskWater QualityWeather & ClimateSoil QualityLawn CareFarmers Markets

Data from U.S. Census Bureau ACS, FBI UCR, CDC, FEMA NRI, NCES, EPA SDWIS, NOAA — informational only.