Life
Jefferson County, Illinois
Jefferson County, Illinois is a remarkable place with a warm and friendly spirit. Our area is made up of bustling communities offering affordable living and a surprisingly long list of activities and opportunities. Whether they’re in Mt. Vernon or one of our charming smaller communities, residents enjoy the comfort and safety of Southern Illinois, plus the added advantage of getting to the excitement of St. Louis in just 90 minutes.
The lack of traffic-packed commutes means more time for recreation, and we have plenty of ways to enjoy yourself, from an art museum, to festivals, to concerts and theater, and even wine trails. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the Aquatic Zoo waterpark, 18,900-acre Rend Lake, and the massive Shawnee National Forest’s breathtaking scenery. Whether you fish, golf, hike, bike, play sports, or simply enjoy basking in nature’s beauty, you won’t have to go far.
Housing choices abound, and all are affordable. Whether your tastes run to historic architecture or modern conveniences, small-town neighborhood streets or wide-open spaces, you’ll find plenty of choices here. No matter where you live in Jefferson County, you’re just minutes from great shopping and dining options.
Families and business leaders alike appreciate our county’s 23 public schools — including brand-new Mt. Vernon Township High School — and the fact that we’re within an hour of eight universities and colleges. We also have excellent healthcare, including two of the best-known hospitals in Southern Illinois. And if you find yourself missing the big city, St. Louis, Memphis, Louisville, Nashville, and Chicago are just a short drive away.