Mercer County, Illinois is located in the northwest corner of the state and is home to approximately 16,000 people. The county has a diverse economy, with strong agricultural and manufacturing sectors, as well as a growing tourism industry. The median household income in Mercer County is $50,876, slightly lower than the national median of $60,293. The poverty rate in Mercer County is 12.4%, slightly higher than the national average of 11.8%.
The population of Mercer County is predominantly white, with 88.6% of the population identifying as white and 8.7% as Hispanic or Latino. The population is relatively young, with a median age of 37.2 years, compared to the national median age of 38.7 years.
Education in Mercer County is provided by the Mercer County Community Unit School District 404, which serves approximately 1,500 students. The district has three elementary schools, one middle school, and one high school. The district has a graduation rate of 87.9%, which is slightly higher than the national average of 84.6%.
The real estate market in Mercer County is relatively affordable, with a median home value of $90,400, compared to the national median of $231,200. The median rent in Mercer County is $634, which is lower than the national median of $949. The median property tax rate in Mercer County is 1.42%, which is lower than the national median of 1.89%.
Overall, Mercer County is a diverse and affordable area with a strong economy and a growing tourism industry. The county has a relatively young population and a strong educational system. The real estate market is relatively affordable, with a median home value and rent that are lower than the national averages.