Where is Dixon, Illinois

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: August 5, 2026

Dixon is a city and the county seat of Lee County in northern Illinois. It sits along the Rock River, about 100 miles west of Chicago and 35 miles southwest of Rockford. The city is known for its riverfront, historic downtown, and connection to President Ronald Reagan, who spent part of his childhood in Dixon.

Location Map of Dixon, Lee County, Illinois

Where is Dixon Located in Lee County, Illinois

About Map: The map shows the location of Dixon in Lee County, in the U.S. state of Illinois.

Dixon Map, Illinois

About Dixon Map: The Google Map highlights the location of Dixon in Lee County, Illinois. Use the zoom, satellite, and street-view options to explore the city's neighborhoods, roads, and nearby places.

Where is Dixon Located?

Dixon is a city located in Lee County, Illinois, the United States. The city is located in north-central Illinois along the Rock River and serves as the county seat of Lee County. Dixon is about 100 miles west of Chicago, 35 miles southwest of Rockford, and approximately 40 miles northeast of the Quad Cities. It lies at about 41.84° North latitude and 89.48° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded a population of 15,274. Dixon covers approximately 7.86 square miles (20.36 square kilometers), including about 7.66 square miles of land and 0.20 square miles of water. The Rock River is a major geographic feature of the city. Dixon is also famous as the childhood home of Ronald Reagan, the 40th president of the United States. Visitors can explore the Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home, the Dixon Historic Center, and Lowell Park along the Rock River.

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Dixon City Facts

CityDixon
StateIllinois
CountyLee County
CountryUnited States
RegionNorthern Illinois
Incorporated1855
Founded1830
Total Area7.86 sq mi (20.36 sq km)
Land Area7.66 sq mi (19.84 sq km)
Water Area0.20 sq mi (0.52 sq km)
Elevation755 ft (230 m)
Population (2023 estimate)Approximately 15,000
Population (2020 Census)15,274
Population Density1,994 people per sq mi
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST/CDT)
ZIP Codes61021
Area Code815, 779
Major HighwaysU.S. Route 30, Illinois Route 26, Illinois Route 2
Public TransitLee-Ogle Transportation System (LOTS)
Major AttractionsRonald Reagan Boyhood Home, Dixon Historic Center, Lowell Park, Dixon Riverfront
Official Websitehttps://www.dixonil.gov/

Distance from Dixon, IL to Nearby Cities

  • Oregon, IL – 14 miles (23 km)
  • Sterling, IL – 16 miles (26 km)
  • Rock Falls, IL – 17 miles (27 km)
  • Amboy, IL – 18 miles (29 km)
  • Mount Morris, IL – 20 miles (32 km)
  • Rochelle, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Mendota, IL – 30 miles (48 km)
  • Freeport, IL – 32 miles (51 km)
  • DeKalb, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Rockford, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Ottawa, IL – 38 miles (61 km)
  • Galena, IL – 60 miles (97 km)
  • Peoria, IL – 75 miles (121 km)
  • Quad Cities, IL/IA – 70 miles (113 km)
  • Aurora, IL – 75 miles (121 km)
  • Naperville, IL – 83 miles (134 km)
  • Chicago, IL – 100 miles (161 km)
  • Madison, WI – 105 miles (169 km)

Top Attractions in Dixon

  • Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home – The historic Dixon home where Ronald Reagan lived during part of his childhood.
  • Ronald Reagan Memorial – A local landmark honoring the 40th president of the United States and his connection to Dixon.
  • Lowell Park – A scenic park along the Rock River with trails, picnic areas, and recreational facilities.
  • Dixon Historic Center – A local history museum featuring exhibits about Dixon and Lee County.
  • Dixon Historic Downtown – A collection of historic buildings, shops, restaurants, and civic landmarks near the Rock River.
  • Reagan Trail – A local route and collection of sites connected with Ronald Reagan's early life in Dixon.
  • Rock River – A major regional waterway offering opportunities for fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and recreation.
  • Nachusa Grasslands – A large natural preserve in the nearby region known for restored prairie, wildlife, and hiking opportunities.

Airports Near Dixon

  • Chicago Rockford International Airport (RFD) – 38 miles
  • Dubuque Regional Airport (DBQ) – 70 miles
  • Quad City International Airport (MLI) – 75 miles
  • Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) – 90 miles

Sources:

Population and area data sourced from the United States Census Bureau (2020 Census). General city information referenced from the official City of Dixon website and local government records.

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