Peoria County, Illinois
Peoria County sits near the middle of Illinois, with the Illinois River running along its eastern side. Peoria serves as the county seat and is the largest city in the area, with a bit of a split personality—part industrial and part agricultural.
The city has a gritty, blue-collar vibe that I find oddly appealing. Caterpillar called this place home for decades, and that industrial heritage still shapes the local culture.
Outside the city, you’ll find rolling hills and farmland. Wildlife Prairie Park is a big draw for hikers, where visitors can see bison and elk roaming freely. There’s also a neat reptile house.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Peoria County |
| County Seat | Peoria |
| Etymology | Named after the Peoria tribe of Native Americans |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Peoria, East Peoria, Pekin, Bartonville, and several unincorporated communities including Dunlap and West Peoria |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 74, Interstate 155, U.S. Highway 24, U.S. Highway 150, Illinois Route 29 |
| FIPS Code | 17-143 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 629 square miles (land: 616 sq mi, water: 13 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Knox County (Northwest), Stark County (North), Marshall County (Northeast), Woodford County (East), Tazewell County (South), Fulton County (Southwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 174,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 40.6936° N, 89.5890° W |
| Major Landmarks | Peoria Riverfront Museum, the Caterpillar Visitor Center, and the Glen Oak Park Zoo |
PHYSICAL MAP
Peoria County Topographic Map
Peoria County mixes rolling river bluffs with flat farmland. The Illinois River cuts through the eastern side, creating scenic valleys along the way.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Peoria County Satellite Map
The Illinois River stands out as it winds past Peoria’s urban area. North of the city, forests and farmland dominate the landscape. Highways like I-74 slice across the county.
OUTLINE MAP
Peoria County Blank Map
The county has an irregular shape, with the Illinois River forming part of its eastern edge. It doesn’t border another state and sits in the northern part of Illinois.
Illinois County Maps
Illinois County Map
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.