McLean County, Illinois

McLean County is right in the middle of Illinois, often called the heart of the state. It’s the largest county in Illinois by land area, with Bloomington-Normal dominating the scene. It’s an urban center surrounded by miles of farmland.

Corn and soybeans are everywhere you look. State Farm Insurance calls this place home, so its headquarters are hard to miss. Illinois State University brings an academic energy to the area, along with plenty of cool spots to eat and hang out around campus.

The county has some serious history too. Lincoln practiced law here back in the day. The place comes alive in the summer with county fairs, outdoor concerts, and plenty of other events. It balances small-town values with big-city opportunities—not a bad combo, if you ask me.

CategoryDetails
County NameMcLean County
County SeatBloomington
EtymologyNamed after John McLean, a former Senator from Illinois
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesBloomington, Normal, Hudson, Le Roy, and several unincorporated communities
Interstates and HighwaysInterstate 55, Interstate 74, U.S. Highway 51, U.S. Highway 150, Illinois Route 9, Illinois Route 51
FIPS Code17-113
Total Area (Land and Water)1,184 square miles (land: 1,183 sq mi, water: 1 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Woodford County (Northwest), Livingston County (Northeast), Ford County (East), Champaign County (Southeast), Piatt County (South), DeWitt County (South), Logan County (Southwest), Tazewell County (West)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CT)
PopulationApproximately 220,000
StateIllinois
Coordinates40.4843° N, 88.8684° W
Major LandmarksThe David Davis Mansion, Illinois State University, and the McLean County Museum of History

PHYSICAL MAP

McLean County Topographic Map

While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.

SATELLITE IMAGERY

McLean County Satellite Map

While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.

OUTLINE MAP

McLean County Blank Map

While much of Winnebago County is relatively flat, the Rock River Valley creates rolling hills and bluffs, especially around Rockford. Small lakes and wetlands can also be found in the northern sections, while the majority of the county consists of open farmland.

Illinois County Map

Illinois map showing boundaries and locations.

Ready to explore Illinois? Discover counties full of surprises, from the energy of Chicago and Cook County to the quiet beauty of Shawnee National Forest. Explore rich history, farmland, natural scenery, and small-town charm with our Illinois county map. Find your next adventure and discover all that Illinois has to offer.

Scroll to Top