While the precise count of "towns" as a singular municipal classification can vary by state definition, Illinois consistently holds the top position in the United States for the total number of its local governments. This broad category encompasses a wide array of entities, including municipalities like cities, villages, and indeed, towns, alongside townships, school districts, and various special districts.
Understanding Local Governments
According to comprehensive Census Bureau data, Illinois leads the nation with an exceptional number of local governing bodies. This extensive network of governments means that while a specific count for "towns" alone isn't readily isolated in this broad data, Illinois's overall governmental structure is the most decentralized and numerous.
Here’s a comparison of states based on their total number of local governments:
| State | Number of Local Governments | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Illinois | 6,968 | Leads the nation by a significant margin |
| Pennsylvania | Approximately 4,968 | Second highest, around 2,000 fewer than Illinois |
| Hawaii | 21 | Has the fewest local governments |
Why Illinois Has So Many Local Governments
The high number of local governments in Illinois is largely attributed to several factors unique to its governmental structure:
- Townships: Illinois is one of the states that extensively utilize township governments, which are responsible for local services in unincorporated areas.
- Special Districts: The state has an exceptionally high number of special districts, which are independent governmental units established to perform specific functions like fire protection, parks, libraries, water supply, and sanitation. Each of these districts operates as a separate governmental entity with its own taxing authority and governing board.
- Historical Development: The historical development of local governance in Illinois has led to a fragmented system, with many layers of specialized government units.
These elements collectively contribute to Illinois having the largest number of local governments in the country, a count that naturally includes its numerous towns and other municipalities.
