Saline County, Illinois
Saline County is in southeastern Illinois, not far from the Kentucky border. Harrisburg serves as the county seat and is the biggest town in the area. These days, agriculture is the main driver of the local economy.
The Shawnee National Forest extends into the southern part of the county, making it a favorite with hikers and campers. Glen O. Jones Lake is also popular for fishing, boating, and, of course, relaxing.
Harrisburg has a pleasant downtown with several local shops. But like many small Illinois towns, it’s facing some economic challenges. Saline County isn’t flashy, but it’s a place where family roots run deep and traditions still matter.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Saline County |
| County Seat | Harrisburg |
| Etymology | Named after the Saline River, which runs through the county |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Harrisburg, Eldorado, Saline City, and several smaller communities |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Route 45, U.S. Route 60, U.S. Route 64, Illinois Route 13 |
| FIPS Code | 17-165 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 600 square miles (land: 597 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Hamilton County (North), White County (Northeast), Gallatin County (East), Hardin County (Southeast), Pope County (South), Johnson County (Southwest), Williamson County (West), Franklin County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CT) |
| Population | Approximately 24,000 |
| State | Illinois |
| Coordinates | 37.7405° N, 88.5397° W |
| Major Landmarks | Shawnee National Forest, the Saline River, and the Harrisburg City Park |
