countyscore
60.9
County Score
Safety 91.3Soil Quality 77.1Lawn Care 70.7

County Report Card

About Shelby County, Illinois

Comfortably Above the Median

Shelby County earns a composite score of 60.9, beating the national median of 50.0. This suggests a livability profile that is more robust and secure than the typical American county.

Surpassing State Standards

With a score of 60.9, Shelby County ranks well above the Illinois average of 52.8. It provides a reliable balance of services and safety that stands out in the central part of the state.

High Safety and Good Health

The county shines with a safety score of 91.3 and a health score of 68.5. Homes are moderately priced at $130,400, and a median income of $68,457 supports a comfortable standard of living.

Tax Burdens and Water Issues

A tax score of 12.9 reflects the common Illinois challenge of high property levies. Additionally, the water score of 37.1 indicates that local utility infrastructure is a potential area for growth.

Great for Secure Rural Living

Shelby County is ideal for people seeking a safe, healthy community with a traditional Midwestern feel. It is a solid all-around performer for those who value security and local healthcare.

2040608010012.964.391.368.565.162.948.337.153.2Tax12.9Cost64.3Safety91.3Health68.5Schools65.1Income62.9Risk48.3Water37.1Weather53.260.9/100
This county
National avg
5 above average2 below average

Shelby County DNA

Doverall

How Shelby County compares to the national average across 9 dimensions

Shelby County is a tale of two counties — exceptional in Safety (91.3/100) but notably weak in Property Tax (12.9/100). This polarized profile creates distinct trade-offs for residents.

Dimension Breakdown

Tax
12.9-39.1
Cost
64.3+16.299999999999997
Safety
91.3+36.3
Health
68.5+18.5
Schools
65.1+11.099999999999994
Income
62.9+11.899999999999999
Risk
48.3
Water
37.1-20.9
Weather
53.2
Sponsored

Think property taxes are too high in Shelby County?

Many homeowners in Shelby 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

$130,400

National median: $174,650

Median Rent

$762/mo

National median: $854/mo

Income Needed (home)

$130,400/yr

28% front-end rule

Income Needed (rent)

$30,480/yr

30% rent rule

Affordability Spectrum1.9x income
AffordableNational avgExpensive
Local median income: $68,457/yr
Compare Mortgage Rates

Economic & Education Snapshot

Primary Care

28.8

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
Compare Shelby County with Echols County →Share on X

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Nearby counties

Moultrie County
Illinois
58.4
Effingham County
Illinois
49.7
Cumberland County
Illinois
62
Christian County
Illinois
55.3
Coles County
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Macon County
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Fayette County
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Douglas County
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55.6

Deep Dives

Shelby County across the ByCounty Network

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

Property Tax in Shelby County

via TaxByCounty

Shelby taxes well below national average

At 1.50%, Shelby County's effective tax rate falls significantly short of the national median of 2.05%, placing it in roughly the 30th percentile nationally. The median property tax of $1,955 is 27% below the national median of $2,690, despite the county's median home value of $130,400.

Shelby ranks among state's lowest-tax counties

With a 1.50% effective rate, Shelby County falls below the Illinois state average of 1.83%, placing it in the lower tier statewide. This favorable positioning offers substantial savings compared to many other Illinois jurisdictions.

Shelby competitive with regional peers

At 1.50%, Shelby's rate rivals Saline County (1.56%) and edges below Stark County (1.64%), making it among the region's most affordable. The $1,955 median tax aligns closely with these comparably-taxed neighbors.

Plan for approximately $1,955 yearly

On the median home valued at $130,400, Shelby County homeowners typically pay $1,955 per year in property taxes. With mortgage escrow reserves factored in, the median rises to $2,174.

Assessment appeals remain worthwhile

Even in a low-tax county, individual properties can be assessed above market value, particularly in rural or slower-moving markets. A reassessment request costs nothing and could reveal further savings.

Full property tax analysis on TaxByCounty

Cost of Living in Shelby County

via CostByCounty

Shelby offers above-average affordability

Shelby County's rent-to-income ratio of 13.4% ranks among the best in this region and beats the national average, reflecting solid balance between housing costs and household income. With a median income of $68,457 and rents of $762, the county delivers genuine affordability without sacrificing economic strength.

Top-tier affordability for Illinois

Shelby County ranks among Illinois's most affordable counties, with a 13.4% rent-to-income ratio significantly below the state average of 14.7%. Median rents of $762 run $75 below the state average while incomes remain stable.

Excellent value in central Illinois

Shelby's $762 rent undercuts most neighbors while the median home value of $130,400 sits in the middle range, offering reasonable options for both renters and buyers. This balance makes Shelby attractive to families seeking stable, affordable small-town life.

Housing takes just 13% of income

Renters allocate $762 monthly and homeowners $792, consuming only 13.4% and 13.9% of the median $68,457 household income respectively. This leaves Shelby families with substantial breathing room—well above national norms.

Shelby: smart choice for affordability seekers

If you're relocating to central Illinois and want genuine affordability without rural sacrifice, Shelby County's 13.4% rent-to-income ratio and $762 rent stand out. Compare job opportunities locally before committing—Shelby's value increases with employment stability.

Full cost of living analysis on CostByCounty

Income & Jobs in Shelby County

via IncomeByCounty

Shelby Trails the National Median

Shelby County's median household income of $68,457 falls 8.4% short of the national median of $74,755. Typical families here earn about $6,298 less annually than the national average, reflecting regional economic constraints.

Just Slightly Below State Average

Shelby County's $68,457 median income is nearly aligned with Illinois's state average of $68,580, falling just $123 short. The county performs solidly relative to its peers statewide despite lagging the national benchmark.

Mid-Range Performance in Central Illinois

Shelby's $68,457 median income positions it in the middle of the profiled counties, higher than Rock Island and Schuyler but below Sangamon and Scott. The county's per capita income of $33,372 reflects modest individual earning power.

Solid Housing Affordability

At 13.4%, Shelby County's rent-to-income ratio is well below the 30% affordability threshold, indicating manageable housing costs. The median home value of $130,400 remains accessible for families earning the county median.

Build Steady Wealth in Shelby County

With a median household income of $68,457, Shelby County residents have meaningful capacity to save and invest for the future. Establishing regular contributions to retirement accounts and investment portfolios can help families compound wealth over time.

Full income & jobs analysis on IncomeByCounty

Safety in Shelby County

via CrimeByCounty

Shelby County shows elite national safety

Shelby County's total crime rate of 152.1 per 100,000 is a fraction of the national 2,385.5 average. With a safety score of 99.8, it is one of the most secure counties in the country. Four reporting agencies consistently document very low levels of criminal activity.

Top-tier safety within Illinois borders

Shelby's safety score of 99.8 easily clears the state average of 98.7. Its total crime rate of 152.1 is significantly better than the Illinois average of 835.0. Residents live in one of the state's most law-abiding jurisdictions.

Strong safety performance against regional neighbors

Shelby County is much safer than St. Clair County, which reports a crime rate of 1,067.0. While some regional neighbors see higher activity, Shelby maintains a consistently low-incident profile. This makes it a preferred location for those prioritizing public safety.

Minimal violent crime reported locally

The violent crime rate is exceptionally low at 28.5 per 100,000, while property crime stands at 123.6. These numbers suggest that serious interpersonal violence is extremely rare in the community. Most reported incidents are minor property-related issues handled by four local agencies.

Protecting your home in Shelby County

With property crime at just 123.6 per 100,000, residents enjoy high levels of security. Standard precautions like locking windows and using deadbolts remain effective ways to deter the few incidents that do occur. Staying informed through local alerts keeps this safe community even more resilient.

Full safety analysis on CrimeByCounty

Schools in Shelby County

via SchoolsByCounty

A Diverse Rural Education Landscape

Shelby County supports 2,843 students across 14 public schools and four districts. The county features a balanced mix of six elementary and six high schools, along with two middle schools. One alternative school also serves the region, providing diverse pathways for student success.

Graduation Rates Surpass State Benchmarks

Shelby County achieves a 91.1% graduation rate, comfortably beating the Illinois average of 88.8% and the national 87.0% benchmark. Per-pupil expenditure is $8,457, which remains efficient compared to the $9,250 state average. The county holds a composite school score of 57.3, reflecting solid academic outcomes.

Shelbyville CUSD 4 Leads the County

Shelbyville CUSD 4 is the primary district, educating 1,251 students across four schools. Other notable districts include Stewardson-Strasburg CUD 5A and Cowden-Herrick CUSD 3A, which serve 399 and 322 students respectively. The county does not host any charter schools, maintaining a focus on community-based districts.

A Blend of Rural and Town Learning

Most students attend one of the 10 rural schools, though four schools are located in town settings. Moulton Elementary School is the county's largest at 429 students, while the countywide average enrollment is 219 students per school. This smaller school size allows for a community-oriented feel throughout the county.

Invest in High-Graduation School Zones

Families seeking high-performing rural schools will find Shelby County an attractive option for relocation. With graduation rates over 91%, the local schools are a significant draw for homebuyers looking at long-term family stability. Look for homes in the Shelbyville or Stewardson-Strasburg districts to capitalize on these results.

Full schools analysis on SchoolsByCounty

Disaster Risk in Shelby County

via RiskByCounty

Shelby maintains relatively low risk

Shelby County scores 51.75 on the composite risk scale, earning a Relatively Low rating and sitting just below Illinois's state average of 54.46. The county experiences moderate exposure to several hazard types, particularly earthquakes and flooding, requiring basic disaster preparedness.

Below-average risk statewide

Shelby ranks in the safer half of Illinois counties, with its 51.75 score beating approximately 50% of the state's peers. The county avoids the extreme risk profiles seen in St. Clair and Sangamon counties while maintaining vigilance across multiple hazard types.

Safer than Sangamon region

Shelby's 51.75 score is substantially lower than nearby Sangamon County (91.70), placing it in a much safer risk category for central Illinois. The county represents a middle ground between the very-low-risk northwest counties and the higher-risk south-central and southwestern regions.

Earthquakes and floods are primary concerns

Shelby's earthquake risk of 78.66 is notably elevated, while flood risk at 48.35 represents the second-largest threat in the county. Tornado risk of 39.76 remains moderate, while wildfire and hurricane risks are minimal below 13 and 41 respectively.

Address flood and earthquake coverage

Shelby County residents should obtain flood insurance through the NFIP, particularly if located in mapped flood zones or near drainages. Consider earthquake insurance given the elevated seismic risk, and maintain basic tornado preparedness including a safe room and emergency supply kit.

Full disaster risk analysis on RiskByCounty

Water Quality in Shelby County

via WaterByCounty

Failing Compliance Grade for Shelby County

Shelby County earns an F grade for drinking water, recording 5 health violations over the last five years. The violation rate of 40.0 per 100,000 residents is slightly lower than the Illinois average of 48.7, yet the failing grade persists. This suggests that the violations occurring are of significant health concern according to EPA standards.

Phosphorus and Oxygen Loss in Watersheds

About 34.6% of the 523 assessed water bodies in Shelby County are impaired, staying just below the state average of 38.0%. The 2022 reporting cycle names phosphorus, mercury, and low dissolved oxygen as the primary threats to water quality. These factors can harm aquatic life and complicate the treatment of source water.

Robust Monitoring Network in Shelby

With 16 monitoring sites and 4,620 measurements over five years, Shelby County has one of the most active data footprints in the region. Most measurements track physical characteristics and metals, providing a detailed history of local water quality. This high density of data allows for more precise environmental management.

Kaskaskia River Flows Above Average

Current discharge at the Kaskaskia River near Cowden is 1,720 cubic feet per second, which is 144% of the long-term mean. Above-average flows can lead to increased phosphorus runoff from nearby agricultural lands. Monitoring these spikes is crucial for maintaining both watershed and tap water health.

Monitoring Phosphorus and High River Flows

Residents should stay informed about phosphorus and mercury levels, especially with 34.6% of local waters impaired. Since the Kaskaskia River is flowing at 144% of its mean, runoff-related contaminants may be more prevalent. Consider using a certified filter to address these risks and compensate for the county's failing compliance grade.

Full water quality analysis on WaterByCounty

Weather & Climate in Shelby County

via WeatherByCounty

Stepping Above National Norms

Shelby County’s annual average temperature of 53.3°F sits higher than the national median of 52.7°F. The climate is defined by reliable precipitation and warm summer peaks.

Aligned with Central Illinois Trends

The county is slightly warmer than the state average of 52.8°F. It receives 41.3 inches of annual precipitation, which is nearly identical to the Illinois average.

Warmer and Drier than the West

Shelby averages 53.3°F, making it warmer than Schuyler County's 51.7°F. However, it sees less snowfall than northern neighbors, recording 13.7 inches annually.

Moderate Snow and High Heat

The county experiences 30 days of extreme heat each year, mostly concentrated in a July that averages 75.7°F. Winters are relatively mild for Illinois, with 13.7 inches of total snow.

Prepare for Humid Summers

With 30 days of heat above 90°F, adequate ventilation and cooling are essential for comfort. The modest 13.7-inch snowfall means lighter winter equipment is usually sufficient.

Full weather & climate analysis on WeatherByCounty

Soil Quality in Shelby County

via SoilByCounty

Typical Illinois Soil Chemistry

Shelby County's soil pH of 6.41 is a near-perfect match for the state average of 6.39. This level is just slightly below the national median of 6.5, providing a familiar environment for traditional midwestern crops. The consistency in pH across the county supports its strong overall soil score of 77.1.

Rich Silt for Optimal Workability

The soil is composed of 65.2% silt, 20.6% clay, and 14.2% sand. This high silt content gives the ground a smooth texture that holds moisture and nutrients effectively. The moderate clay levels provide necessary structure without making the soil too difficult to plow or till.

Above Average Water Retention

Shelby County boasts an available water capacity of 0.210 in/in, which exceeds the Illinois state average. Its organic matter content of 2.52% is well above the national 2.0% benchmark. This combination creates a fertile, resilient sponge that keeps plants hydrated even during dry spells.

Stable Hydrology for Deep Roots

With a high water capacity and 65.2% silt, the county's hydrology supports deep and steady root development. Although specific drainage classes are not listed, the soil's ability to retain moisture makes it very productive for row crops. Proper management ensures these silty loams remain a cornerstone of local agriculture.

Diverse Planting Options in Zone 6b

As part of Zone 6b, Shelby County enjoys slightly milder winters than its northern neighbors. The high water capacity is perfect for thirsty crops like corn, pumpkins, and lush turfgrasses. Your local soil is ready to support a high-yielding home garden or a beautiful landscape.

Full soil quality analysis on SoilByCounty

Lawn Care in Shelby County

via LawnByCounty

Steady Growth Potential in Shelby County

Shelby County's 70.7 lawn difficulty score sits right above the Illinois average of 69.8. Located in Hardiness Zone 6b, the county offers a hospitable climate for a variety of turfgrasses that is easier to maintain than the national average.

Ample Rainfall for Mid-State Lawns

Shelby County receives 41.3 inches of annual rainfall, nearly identical to the state average. While there are 30 extreme heat days, the 3,691 growing degree days provide plenty of warmth for a vigorous growing season.

Reliable Soil for Nutrient Management

A soil pH of 6.41 ensures that your grass can easily access applied fertilizers and natural minerals. The soil composition of 20.6% clay and 14.2% sand provides a balanced structure for root stability and moisture retention.

Severe Drought Demands Water Conservation

The county is currently under 100% Severe Drought (D2+) conditions following 32 weeks of drought in the past year. Use a rain gauge to ensure your lawn receives at least one inch of water per week during these dry spells.

Seed Cool-Season Turf in Late Spring

The growing season begins in earnest after the April 16 last frost. Tall fescues are particularly successful here, with enough time to establish before the first fall frost on October 22.

Full lawn care analysis on LawnByCounty

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Shelby County's county score?
Shelby County, Illinois has a composite county score of 60.9 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 Shelby County rank among counties in Illinois?
Shelby County ranks #18 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 Shelby County, Illinois?
The median annual property tax in Shelby County is $1,955, with an effective tax rate of 1.50%. This earns Shelby County a tax score of 12.9/100 on CountyScore (higher = lower taxes).
What is the median household income in Shelby County?
The median household income in Shelby County, Illinois is $68,457 per year according to U.S. Census Bureau data. Shelby County earns an income score of 62.9/100 on CountyScore.
Is Shelby County, Illinois a good place to live?
Shelby County scores 60.9/100 on CountyScore's overall county ranking, ranking #18 in Illinois. The best way to evaluate Shelby 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 Shelby 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.