Rock Island County, Illinois
Rock Island County sits at the western edge of Illinois, where the Mississippi and Rock rivers meet. The Quad Cities straddle the Mississippi River here, with Rock Island and Moline on the Illinois side. Iowa lies just across the river to the west.
The county is part industrial center and part college town, with Augustana College located in Rock Island. Manufacturing has been the backbone of the local economy for generations, and John Deere still has a major presence here. Outside the cities, rolling hills and farmland fill the landscape.
The Rock Island Arsenal, an active military base, dominates Rock Island itself. Quad City International Airport connects the area to destinations beyond the region, while Black Hawk State Historic Site highlights the area’s Native American history. There’s a lot packed into this county.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Rock Island County |
| County Seat | Rock Island |
| Etymology | Named after the Rock Island, a prominent island in the Mississippi River |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Moline, Rock Island, East Moline, Silvis, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 74, Interstate 280, U.S. Route 6, U.S. Route 67 |
| FIPS Code | 17-161 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 451 square miles (land: 418 sq mi, water: 33 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Clinton County, Iowa (North), Whiteside County (Northeast), Henry County (Southeast), Mercer County (South), Louisa County, Iowa (Southwest), Muscatine County, Iowa (West), Scott County, Iowa (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 145,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 41.4942° N, 90.5900° W |
| Major Landmarks | The Rock Island Arsenal, Black Hawk State Historic Site, and the John Deere Pavilion |
PHYSICAL MAP
Rock Island County Topographic Map
Our topographic map has it all. Bluffs along the Mississippi River give way to flatter land farther inland. The Rock River meets the Mississippi here, helping shape the county’s terrain.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Rock Island County Satellite Map
The Mississippi River dominates the western side. Cities like Rock Island and Moline sit along its banks, while bridges connect the area to Iowa. Farmland fills much of the eastern sections.
OUTLINE MAP
Rock Island County Blank Map
The Mississippi River forms the county’s western border, separating Illinois from Iowa. The rest of the county mostly follows straight, survey-drawn boundaries.
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.