countyscore
63.1
County Score
Disaster Risk 91.3Safety 91Lawn Care 80.5

County Report Card

About Mercer County, Illinois

An Exceptionally Livable National Standout

Mercer County achieves a composite score of 63.1, far exceeding the national median of 50.0. It ranks among the top-performing counties in the country for overall well-being.

Leading the Way in Illinois

At 63.1, Mercer County is a top performer in Illinois, beating the state average of 52.8 by more than 10 points. It offers a rare balance of safety and environmental resilience for the region.

Superior Safety and Low Risk

The county shines with a risk score of 91.3 and a safety score of 91.0, making it one of the most secure places to live. Education is also a highlight, with a strong school score of 75.7.

High Property Tax Pressures

Low tax scores are a recurring theme here, as the county receives a 3.8 due to a high 1.945% effective tax rate. While housing is affordable with $757 median rent, the tax burden remains a hurdle.

A Haven for Peace of Mind

Mercer County is a premier choice for those seeking a safe, low-risk environment with great schools. It suits families and retirees who value community security above all else.

Score breakdown

Tax3.8Cost55Safety91Health77.2Schools75.7Income70.6Risk91.3Water55.3Weather52.1
🏛3.8
Property Tax
Effective property tax rate vs national benchmarks
TaxByCounty →
🏠55
Cost of Living
Median rent, home values, and housing affordability
CostByCounty →
💼70.6
Income & Jobs
Median household income and per capita earnings
IncomeByCounty →
🛡91
Safety
Violent and property crime rates per 100K residents
CrimeByCounty →
❤77.2
Health
Life expectancy, uninsured rates, and health access
HealthByCounty →
🎓75.7
Schools
Graduation rates, per-pupil spending, and attainment
SchoolsByCounty →
⚡91.3
Disaster Risk
FEMA National Risk Index — flood, fire, tornado, and more
RiskByCounty →
💧55.3
Water Quality
EPA drinking water health violations and safety grades
WaterByCounty →
🌤52.1
Weather & Climate
Average temperatures, precipitation, and extreme weather events
WeatherByCounty →
🪨73.8
Soil Quality
Soil composition, pH, drainage, and organic matter content
SoilByCounty →
🌱80.5
Lawn Care
Lawn difficulty score based on climate, soil, and grass suitability
LawnByCounty →
🛒
Farmers Markets
Local market density, SNAP/EBT acceptance, and product variety
MarketsByCounty →
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Explore this county

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Nearby counties

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Deep Dives

Mercer County across the ByCounty Network

Detailed analysis from 10 data dimensions — each powered by a dedicated ByCounty site.

Property Tax in Mercer County

via TaxByCounty

Mercer County taxes exceed the national average

Mercer County's effective tax rate of 1.945% tops the national median of 1.831%, placing it above the 50th percentile nationwide. On a home valued at $281,900, this rate would generate roughly $5,473 in annual taxes—significantly higher than the national median of $2,690.

Mercer ranks in the upper half statewide

At 1.945%, Mercer County's effective rate exceeds Illinois's state average of 1.831%. Despite median home values of just $139,300, Mercer's median tax bill of $2,710 still tracks above the state median of $2,782 relative to its modest home prices.

Mercer's rate tops nearby Menard and Montgomery counties

Mercer's 1.945% effective rate significantly outpaces Menard County's 1.637% and Montgomery County's 1.720%. A homeowner with a $150,000 property in Mercer pays roughly $300 more annually than an identical home in Menard.

Typical Mercer home costs $2,710 per year in taxes

The median $139,300 home in Mercer County carries a $2,710 annual property tax. With mortgage-related charges, the total climbs to $2,995, making property taxes a meaningful expense for homeowners.

Appeal your assessment if values seem inflated

Mercer County residents paying above-market rates should request a professional assessment review. Many overassessed homeowners successfully lower their tax burden through formal appeals to the county assessor's office.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Mercer County

via CostByCounty

Mercer rents beat national averages

Mercer County renters spend 12.7% of income on rent, comfortably below the national benchmark of roughly 15%. Though household income ($71,710) trails the U.S. median by $3,045, the county's low rents help offset that gap.

Mercer ranks among state's most affordable

At 12.7% rent-to-income, Mercer outperforms Illinois's 14.7% state average, with median rents of $757 standing below the state's $837 benchmark. This affordability advantage makes Mercer a standout for budget-conscious renters statewide.

Mercer offers lowest rents in the region

Mercer's $757 median rent edges out Menard County ($780) as this region's cheapest option, though Mercer households earn noticeably less ($71,710 vs. $81,334). For renters prioritizing lowest absolute housing costs over income security, Mercer delivers.

Housing takes modest bite here

Mercer residents dedicate 12.7% of income to rent and 15.8% to owner costs—both reasonable allocations. A median home value of $139,300 with $947/month mortgages keeps homeownership within reach for typical county households.

Mercer delivers affordable renting

If minimizing rent expense ranks first on your list, Mercer County offers Illinois's lowest-cost rentals without sacrificing basic income stability. Explore how far your rent dollar stretches here compared to higher-cost counties.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Mercer County

via IncomeByCounty

Mercer slightly trails national median

Mercer County's median household income of $71,710 falls about $3,045 short of the national median of $74,755, placing it near the national average. The county sits just 4.1% below the U.S. benchmark.

Above state average but modest gains

Mercer County earns $71,710 against Illinois's state average of $68,580, a $3,130 advantage representing 4.6% higher income. The county ranks in the middle tier among Illinois counties.

Mid-range among regional peers

Mercer's $71,710 sits between Moultrie County ($71,676) and Ogle County ($79,244), but trails Monroe County ($101,635) significantly. The county earns modestly more than Morgan County ($65,175) and considerably more than Montgomery County ($61,863).

Tight but manageable housing costs

At 12.7%, Mercer's rent-to-income ratio approaches the 30% affordability threshold, indicating moderate housing cost burden. Median home values of $139,300 remain accessible, though residents should budget carefully.

Strategic savings build Mercer prosperity

With income tracking national averages, Mercer households benefit from disciplined budgeting and consistent retirement contributions. Focus on reducing debt and establishing an emergency fund to strengthen long-term financial security.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Mercer County

via CrimeByCounty

Mercer County is a national safety leader

Mercer County's total crime rate of 159.3 is massively lower than the national average of 2,385.5. This earns the county an exceptional safety score of 99.7 out of 100.

A top-tier safety destination in Illinois

The county's crime rate of 159.3 is far better than the state average of 835.0. Mercer's safety score of 99.7 easily beats the state average of 98.7, ranking it among the safest in Illinois.

Outperforming neighboring Illinois counties

Mercer is safer than nearby Mason County, which has a rate of 711.3, and Marshall County at 553.7. It mirrors the high safety levels found in McDonough County (179.0).

Personal safety is a given here

Violent crime is nearly zero, with only 6.4 incidents per 100K reported by five agencies. Property crime accounts for 152.9, which is still incredibly low by state and national standards.

Vigilance for your valuables

The primary threat in Mercer is property-related, though the risk remains minimal. Simple habits like locking vehicles and home doors are usually sufficient to maintain this county's high level of security.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Health in Mercer County

via HealthByCounty

Mercer life expectancy near national average

Mercer County residents have a life expectancy of 77.3 years, close to the U.S. average of 76.4 years. About 16.6% report poor or fair health, in line with national patterns.

Slightly above Illinois average

At 77.3 years, Mercer's life expectancy edges above Illinois' state average of 76.0 years, though the county faces greater health challenges than its state median.

Trailing nearby high-performers

Mercer's 77.3-year life expectancy falls short of neighboring Menard County (78.3 years) and Monroe County (79.6 years). The gap suggests structural differences in healthcare access or population health factors across the region.

Fewer doctors, higher uninsured rates

With only 13 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, Mercer has the lowest primary care density among its neighbors. At 5.7% uninsured, the county still lags the state average of 6.3%, though access barriers remain a concern.

Ensure your family has coverage

With limited primary care providers locally, having solid insurance coverage is essential for accessing care. Check your options on healthcare.gov to confirm you're getting the coverage your family deserves.

Full health analysis on HealthByCounty

Schools in Mercer County

via SchoolsByCounty

Streamlined Districts Serving Mercer Students

Mercer County supports 1,994 students across 8 public schools, including four elementary, two middle, and one high school. The county operates through just two main school districts, creating a highly organized educational framework.

Exceeding State Graduation Benchmarks

With a 92.4% graduation rate, Mercer County significantly outperforms both the state average of 88.8% and the national average of 87.0%. The county invests $9,158 per pupil, nearly matching the Illinois state average for educational spending.

Sherrard and Mercer County Districts

Sherrard CUSD 200 is the largest district by enrollment with 1,371 students across 5 schools. Mercer County School District 404 follows with 1,294 students, and no charter schools operate within the county boundaries.

Rural and Town Diversity

The county features five rural and three town-based schools, with Mercer County High School serving as the largest campus at 404 students. An average school size of 249 students ensures that educators can focus on individual student success.

A Top Choice for Graduation Success

With graduation rates exceeding 92%, Mercer County is a premier destination for families prioritizing academic completion. Consider the high-performing Sherrard or Mercer County districts when evaluating your next home purchase.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Mercer County

via RiskByCounty

Mercer County ranks among nation's safest

Mercer County's composite risk score of 8.78 places it well below the national average, earning a very low risk rating. This county experiences substantially less exposure to major natural disasters than most U.S. counties.

Illinois's lowest-risk county

With a composite score less than one-sixth of Illinois's 54.46 average, Mercer County is the safest county in the state by this measure. No Illinois county ranks notably lower for overall natural disaster risk.

Significantly safer than surrounding counties

Mercer County's risk score of 8.78 is dramatically lower than neighboring Menard County (28.69), Monroe County (41.86), and Morgan County (71.12). Residents here enjoy exceptional protection from natural hazards compared to the broader central Illinois region.

Earthquakes the primary concern

Earthquake risk (24.68) and tornado risk (22.52) represent Mercer County's top hazards, both well below state levels. Flood (9.16), wildfire (1.08), and hurricane (11.31) risks are all minimal in this county.

Focus on standard homeowner protection

A solid homeowners insurance policy covering tornado and wind damage provides adequate protection for Mercer County residents. While earthquake risk remains low, adding earthquake coverage offers inexpensive peace of mind in this exceptionally safe region.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Weather & Climate in Mercer County

via WeatherByCounty

A True Four-Season Midwestern Climate

Mercer County's 50.6°F average annual temperature is cooler than the national median. This northwestern Illinois county experiences a pronounced winter season and warm, humid summers.

Cooler and Drier Than Average Illinois

The county's 50.6°F average and 37.6 inches of rain both fall below the Illinois state averages. It represents the cooler, northern-fringe climate of the state's midsection.

Higher Snowfall Than Central Peers

Mercer averages 21.1 inches of snow, significantly more than neighbors like McLean. It enjoys a milder summer than southern counties, with only 19 extreme heat days.

Cold Winters and Manageable Summers

The January average is a cold 22.8°F, and the county sees over 21 inches of snow each year. Summers are warm but rarely oppressive, with 19 days reaching 90°F or higher.

Gear Up for Significant Winter Snow

Invest in a reliable snow shovel or blower to handle the 21.1 inches of annual snowfall. You will also need robust home heating to stay comfortable during the 22.8°F January lows.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Mercer County

via SoilByCounty

Standard Midwestern Acidity in Mercer

Mercer County maintains an average soil pH of 6.42, placing it very close to the national median of 6.5 and slightly above the Illinois average. This slightly acidic profile is ideal for the nutrient uptake required by most regional field crops.

Fine-Grained Soil with High Silt

A heavy silt concentration of 63.8% defines the local texture, supported by 22.1% clay and 14.1% sand. This composition creates a fertile, fine-grained earth that is easy to till but requires careful management to prevent surface compaction.

Consistent Hydration for Thirsty Roots

Organic matter levels reach 2.30%, which exceeds the national average of 2.0% even if it trails the state's 2.94% mark. The available water capacity of 0.205 in/in ensures that crops have steady access to hydration throughout the growing season.

Observe Water Movement on Site

Detailed drainage class and hydrologic group data are not currently available for this county’s overall profile. Growers should observe how water moves across their land after heavy rains to assess the specific drainage needs of their planting site.

Ready for Cool-Season Success

Mercer County falls within USDA Hardiness Zone 5b, favoring cool-season vegetables and hardy perennials. The high silt content and reliable water capacity provide an excellent environment for establishing a productive home vegetable patch.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Mercer County

via LawnByCounty

Mercer County Tops the State

With a lawn difficulty score of 80.5, Mercer County is one of the easiest places in Illinois to maintain a healthy yard. This score far exceeds both the state average of 69.8 and the national benchmark of 50.0 for Zone 5b growers.

Cooler Summers Benefit Northern Turf

Annual precipitation of 37.6 inches falls slightly below the state average but remains within the ideal range for cool-season grasses. Residents manage 19 extreme heat days annually, providing a much cooler environment than the state average of 27 days.

Optimal pH for Rich Color

A soil pH of 6.42 means your grass can easily access vital minerals like nitrogen and phosphorus. The soil profile contains 22.1% clay and 14.1% sand, a combination that typically requires minimal amendment for standard residential turf.

Resilient Landscapes in Abnormally Dry Conditions

While 100% of the area is currently classified as abnormally dry, the county has avoided the severe drought levels seen elsewhere in the state. With only 18 weeks of drought in the past year, your lawn likely needs only supplemental watering to maintain its green hue.

Short Growing Season Success

Hardy Zone 5b grasses like fine fescue are perfect for this region's shorter window. Plan your spring seeding for late April once the frost clears on April 22 to ensure young blades are established before the October 24 freeze.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Mercer County's county score?
Mercer County, Illinois has a composite county score of 63.1 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 Mercer County rank among counties in Illinois?
Mercer County ranks #10 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 Mercer County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Mercer County is $2,710, with an effective tax rate of 1.95%. This earns Mercer County a tax score of 3.8/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Mercer County?
The median household income in Mercer County, Illinois is $71,710 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Mercer County earns an income score of 70.6/100 on CountyScore.
Is Mercer County, Illinois a good place to live?
Mercer County scores 63.1/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #10 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Mercer 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 Mercer County with other counties side by side.

ByCounty Network

🏛Property Tax🏠Cost of Living💼Income & Jobs🛡Safety❤Health🎓Schools⚡Disaster Risk💧Water Quality🌤Weather & Climate🪨Soil Quality🌱Lawn Care🛒Farmers Markets

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