Where is Monticello, Illinois

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

Monticello is a city in central Illinois and the county seat of Piatt County. It sits about 25 miles west of Champaign and 35 miles east of Decatur. The city is known for Allerton Park and Retreat Center, its historic downtown, and its location among the farm fields of central Illinois. Monticello also serves as a local center for agriculture, education, and community events.

Location Map of Monticello, Piatt County, Illinois

Where is Monticello Located in Piatt County, Illinois

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

Monticello Map, Illinois

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

Where is Monticello Located?

Monticello is a city located in Piatt County, Illinois, the United States. It lies in central Illinois, about 25 miles west of Champaign and about 35 miles east of Decatur. Mahomet is roughly 14 miles northeast, while Clinton is about 20 miles west. Monticello is positioned near 40.027° North latitude and 88.574° West longitude. The 2020 Census recorded 5,941 residents. The city covers about 4.81 square miles, or 12.46 square kilometers, of land. Allerton Park and Retreat Center is the area's best-known attraction, with gardens, woodland trails, and historic features along the Sangamon River. Monticello grew during the 19th century as a county seat and agricultural community. A unique fact about the city is its connection to Robert Allerton, whose nearby estate became Allerton Park and is now an important public garden and cultural site. The city's location also places it near major agricultural and transportation routes across central Illinois.

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Monticello City Facts

CityMonticello
StateIllinois
CountyPiatt County
CountryUnited States
RegionCentral Illinois
Incorporated1837
Founded1837
Total Area4.81 sq mi (12.46 sq km)
Land Area4.79 sq mi (12.41 sq km)
Water Area0.02 sq mi (0.05 sq km)
Elevation685 ft (209 m)
Population (2023 estimate)About 5,900
Population (2020 Census)5,941
Population Density1,240 people per sq mi
Time ZoneCentral Time (CST/CDT)
ZIP Codes61856
Area Code217 and 447
Major HighwaysUS-10, US-150, IL-10, and IL-48
Public TransitPiatt County transportation and regional demand-response services
Major AttractionsAllerton Park and Retreat Center, Monticello Railway Museum, downtown Monticello, and Robert Allerton Park
Official Websitehttps://www.monticelloillinois.org/

Distance from Monticello, IL to Nearby Cities

  • White Heath, IL – 8 miles (13 km)
  • Mansfield, IL – 9 miles (14 km)
  • Mahomet, IL – 14 miles (23 km)
  • Monticello, IL – 0 miles (0 km)
  • Champaign, IL – 25 miles (40 km)
  • Urbana, IL – 26 miles (42 km)
  • Decatur, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Clinton, IL – 20 miles (32 km)
  • Farmer City, IL – 20 miles (32 km)
  • Arthur, IL – 26 miles (42 km)
  • Rantoul, IL – 29 miles (47 km)
  • Tuscola, IL – 35 miles (56 km)
  • Bloomington, IL – 49 miles (79 km)
  • Normal, IL – 51 miles (82 km)
  • Danville, IL – 54 miles (87 km)
  • Springfield, IL – 61 miles (98 km)
  • Peoria, IL – 67 miles (108 km)
  • Effingham, IL – 70 miles (113 km)

Top Attractions in Monticello, IL

  • Allerton Park and Retreat Center – A large historic estate with formal gardens, woodland trails, sculptures, and the Allerton mansion.
  • Monticello Railway Museum – A railroad museum featuring historic locomotives, railcars, exhibits, and excursion train rides.
  • Monticello Historic Downtown – A traditional downtown area with historic buildings, local businesses, restaurants, and community spaces.
  • Robert Allerton Park – A scenic park along the Sangamon River known for gardens, sculptures, and wooded walking trails.
  • Monticello Family Aquatic Center – A seasonal community recreation facility with swimming and water activities.
  • Piatt County Courthouse – A historic civic landmark located in the center of Monticello.
  • Monticello Lake – A local recreation area offering fishing and outdoor activities.
  • Weldon Springs State Park – A nearby state park with trails, camping, fishing, and wooded scenery.

Airports Near Monticello, IL

  • University of Illinois Willard Airport (CMI) – 25 miles
  • Decatur Airport (DEC) – 35 miles
  • Central Illinois Regional Airport (BMI) – 52 miles
  • Abraham Lincoln Capital Airport (SPI) – 64 miles
  • Danville Regional Airport (DNV) – 55 miles

Sources:

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

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