About Bureau County, Illinois

Welcome to Bureau County, where you will find all of the necessary ingredients for a great time away–outdoor activities that include enjoying town and county festivals, hiking and biking, fishing, bird watching, and parades.

When the weather is less than perfect, there are many fine museums where individuals or a group can spend hours discovering local history. Bureau County has no less than 16 structures on the National Register of Historical Places.

Artists and photographers will find all manner of subjects along the country roads of Bureau County. The lifestyle and pace is quiet and relaxing. Forget freeways and city traffic. Come to a part of America made up more of rural stop signs than traffic lights. And you won't find more gracious and friendly people anywhere. The residents of Bureau County are pleased to share their treasures with everyone who visits–and are always eager to answer a question or give a recommendation.

With all that said, it would be remiss not to mention the quality of life here for visitors and those that decide to become permanent residents. Progressive Farmer magazine named Bureau County as the 21st best place to live in rural America and the 5th best in the Midewest based on factors including: cost-of-living figures, crime rates, air quality, access to health care, education, leisure activities, quality of life, and scenery.*

There are numerous incentives for new business that are well worth exploring. Contact city or village officials through the websites noted throughout this guide. You'll find easy access for transportation through Interstate 80, Burlington Northern and Amtrak rail lines, and barge access on the Illinois River. Coupled with Bureau County's central midwest location, there are few better places to start a business or locate a facility.

Enjoy Bureau County . . . for a day, a week, or forever!

*From real estate and demographic research firm, OnBoard LLC.