Jefferson County
countyJefferson County is located in southeastern Iowa. Fairfield serves as its county seat and primary commercial hub. The county blends a rural atmosphere with unique cultural influences, particularly from Maharishi International University and the Transcendental Meditation community. Jefferson County's economy is based in agriculture, but has diversified into manufacturing, software development, and services. Key sectors include retail trade, healthcare, and education. Iowa Wesleyan University and Maharishi International University are major educational institutions in the county. What makes Jefferson County distinctive is its blend of traditional Iowa values with a global perspective. The presence of Maharishi International University has fostered a culture of sustainability and innovation, influencing local practices and attracting individuals from around the world. The county also offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities, contributing to a high quality of life.
Jefferson County, Iowa
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 19-101
- Country
- United States
- County
- Jefferson County
- Region
- Southeastern Iowa
- Total Area
- 437 sq mi
- Land Area
- 436 sq mi
- Water Area
- 1.4 sq mi
- Latitude
- 41.0314
- Longitude
- -91.9447
- Notable Features
- Skunk River · Des Moines River
- Neighboring Areas
- Keokuk County · Washington County · Henry County · Van Buren County · Wapello County
- Population (2020)
- 15,663
- Est. Population (2024)
- 15,781
- Median Age
- 43.5
- Median Income
- $56,824
- Poverty Rate
- 7.5%
- Family Households
- 55.2%
- Owner-Occupied
- 66.2%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- White (82.7%), Black or African American (5.7%), Asian (4.6%)
- Unemployment Rate
- 3%
- Economic Profile
- Agriculture · Manufacturing · Software Development · Services
- Employment Sectors
- Retail Trade · Health Care & Social Assistance · Educational Services
- School Districts
- Fairfield Community School District · Pekin Community School District
- Colleges & Universities
- Iowa Wesleyan University · Maharishi International University
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Jefferson County Park · Round Prairie Park · Turkey Run Wildlife Area · Whitham Woods · Zillman's Hickory Hills
- Parks & Trails
- Jefferson County Park · Fairfield Loop Trail
- Founded
- 1839
- Named After
- Thomas Jefferson
- Historical Significance
- Played a role in Iowa's development and witnessed various historical events.
- Key Events
- Settled by European Americans in 1833 · Established on January 21, 1839 · Civil War involvement