Morgan County, founded in 1823 and named for Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan, is located in west-central Illinois. The county seat and largest city is Jacksonville, an educational and healthcare hub home to Illinois College and the Illinois School for the Deaf and Visually Impaired. The area blends small-city living with surrounding farmland and charming villages like Franklin and Murrayville. Housing is affordable and diverse — early 20th-century homes line Jacksonville’s historic neighborhoods, while newer developments rise on the outskirts. The average home price is around $150,000–$230,000, with large updated properties or small estates reaching $300K+. Building new (including land) generally costs $250K–$350K. The area offers quality schools, medical facilities, and cultural events while maintaining a small-town pace. Located just 35 miles west of Springfield, Morgan County provides a balanced lifestyle of affordability, accessibility, and tradition.