Alexander County Map, Illinois

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: April 26, 2026 | 14:30 ET

Map of Alexander County - Alexander County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. Alexander County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is Alexander County located in the map, major cities in Alexander county, population, areas, and places of interest.

Alexander County Map, Illinois

Alexander County Map, Illinois

About Alexander County Map, Illinois: The map showing the county boundary, county seat, major cities, highways, water bodies and neighbouring counties.

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Alexander County, Illinois

Alexander County is a county located in the U.S. state of Illinois. It's county seat is Cairo. As per 2020 census, the population of Alexander County is 5030 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 236 sq mi (611 km2). Alexander County was established on 1819.

Facts about Alexander County, Illinois

CountryUnited States
StateIllinois
RegionSouthern Illinois (Little Egypt)
County SeatCairo
Named AfterDr. William M. Alexander
Established1819
Organized1819
Coordinates37.15° N, 89.34° W
Total Area~236 sq mi
Land Area~222 sq mi
Water Area~14 sq mi
Population (2020)~5,616
Population RankOne of the least populous counties in Illinois
Largest CityCairo
Main IndustriesAgriculture, River Transportation, Government Services
Major RiversMississippi River, Ohio River
Time ZoneCentral Time (UTC−06:00)
Known ForConfluence of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, historic river town of Cairo
Websitehttps://alexandercounty.illinois.gov

Ctities in Alexander county

City NameTypePopulation (2020)Pop. DensityArea
CairoCity1,733248.0/sq mi (95.8/km2)6.987 sq mi (18.1 km2)
East Cape GirardeauVillage289147.4/sq mi (56.9/km2)1.961 sq mi (5.08 km2)
McClureVillage256167.5/sq mi (64.7/km2)1.528 sq mi (3.96 km2)
TammsVillage430184.4/sq mi (71.2/km2)2.332 sq mi (6.04 km2)
ThebesVillage208119.2/sq mi (46.0/km2)1.745 sq mi (4.52 km2)

Roads and Highways in Alexander County, Illinois

Alexander County is connected by a few key highways that link it to southern Illinois, Missouri, and Kentucky, especially around the Mississippi and Ohio River junction.

  • U.S. Route 51 – runs north-south, connecting Cairo to Mounds and further into central Illinois
  • U.S. Route 60 – crosses east-west through the southern part of the county, linking Missouri to Kentucky
  • U.S. Route 62 – runs east-west alongside US 60, connecting Cairo to nearby towns and states
  • Illinois Route 3 – runs north-south along the Mississippi River, linking the county to Union County

Neighboring Counties of Alexander County

  • Union County (north)
  • Pulaski County (northeast)
  • Ballard County, Kentucky (east)
  • Mississippi County, Missouri (west)
  • Scott County, Missouri (northwest)

Top Attractions in Alexander County, Illinois

Alexander County offers unique river views, historic landmarks, and quiet natural areas at the southernmost point of Illinois.

  • Cairo Historic District – Features historic buildings and sites tied to the town’s riverfront past.
  • Fort Defiance Park – Located at the meeting point of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers with scenic views.
  • Magnolia Manor – A historic home in Cairo reflecting 19th-century architecture.
  • Cache River Wetlands – Offers wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and peaceful natural surroundings.
  • Ohio River Scenic Views – Great for photography and relaxing by the water.
  • Mississippi River Levee Areas – Popular for walking and enjoying river landscapes.
  • Alexander County Courthouse – A historic building in Cairo with classic design.

Distance from Alexander County to Nearby Cities

  • Cairo to Carbondale – 55 mi (89 km)
  • Cairo to Cape Girardeau – 20 mi (32 km)
  • Cairo to Paducah – 35 mi (56 km)
  • Cairo to St. Louis – 165 mi (266 km)
  • Cairo to Memphis – 180 mi (290 km)

FAQs about Alexander County

Where is Alexander County located?

Alexander County is located in the southern tip of Illinois at the meeting point of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers.

What is Alexander County known for?

The county is known for its unique river confluence, historic sites, and scenic natural areas.

What is the county seat of Alexander County?

Cairo is the county seat and the largest city in Alexander County.

Are there outdoor activities in Alexander County?

Yes, visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, birdwatching, and exploring riverfront areas.

How can I reach Alexander County?

Alexander County is accessible via U.S. Routes 51, 60, and 62, along with nearby state highways.