Montgomery County, established in 1821 and named for General Richard Montgomery, sits in south-central Illinois. The county seat is Hillsboro, and other important towns include Litchfield, Nokomis, and Raymond. The landscape is agricultural and peaceful, dotted with lakes and small wooded areas. Interstate 55 runs through the county, providing direct access to Springfield (45 minutes north) and St. Louis (1 hour south). The housing market is highly affordable — existing homes typically range $130,000–$200,000, with updated or larger properties up to $275K. New construction including land averages $250K–$350K. Hillsboro Lake and Lake Lou Yaeger near Litchfield offer recreation and lakefront living options. Montgomery County is ideal for retirees, families, and commuters who want small-town simplicity with excellent connectivity to larger cities.