Definition: A county is a geographic region used for local government and administration. It is usually a subdivision of a state or country and contains towns or cities.
Where counties exist
Counties are common in the United States and in several other countries. In the U.S., counties are the main local government layer between states and towns or cities.
What counties do
Counties typically handle services that cover larger areas, such as courts, policing, public health, roads, and social services. They also maintain official records like property deeds and birth or marriage certificates.
Who governs a county
Counties are usually governed by an elected body (often called a board of supervisors or county commissioners). Other elected officials may include a sheriff, district attorney, treasurer, and clerk.
How counties differ from other units
- Counties are usually larger than cities but smaller than states.
- In the U.S., some services are provided by the state, some by the county, and some by cities within the county.
- In the U.K., county structures have changed over time and some powers are now held by unitary authorities.
Examples
Examples include Los Angeles County (California), Cook County (Illinois), and Kent County (Delaware). Many names are reused in different places.
How to find your county
- Look up your address on your local government or census site.
- Search for your town or city name + “county.”
- Consult official maps to confirm county boundaries.