BY THE NUMBERS

No two counties are exactly the same. Counties are diverse in structure and how we deliver services to our communities. Though organizational structures vary, all county, parish and borough governments are on the front lines of delivering vital services to residents.

19,355

Elected county board members and executives

18,629

Independently elected officials

Including elected constitutional officials or row officers

37,984

Total county elected officials

Including county board members, executives and row officers

How Counties Work

Dive deep on counties. Explore our latest research and reports on how counties work.

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Program

County Governance Project

A comprehensive guide to county government structure, authority, services and finances.

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Governing on the Ground

Governing on the Ground is an inside look at the complex challenges faced by officials as they strive to strengthen their communities. The book features 30 short chapters contributed by county leaders.

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The County Landscape

Explore County Data

NACo's County Explorer online interactive tool aggregates more than 800 data points on counties, parishes and boroughs, helping you tell the county story, support projects and grant proposals, and build credibility with key stakeholders.

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Highlight Your County's Story

NACo Achievement Awards

The Achievement Awards is a non-competitive awards program recognizing innovative county government programs. Award-winning programs are featured in NACo content and celebrated at NACo's Annual Conference.

Learn More

Telling the County Story

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National County Government Month

Held each April, NCGM is an annual celebration of county government. NACo equips counties with template materials, social media graphics, and more resources to kick off the month of recognition.

ICivics Game

Counties Work Game & Curriculum

NACo, together with iCivics, has created an online game and curriculum to educate students grade levels 6-12 about the important role and functions of county government. 

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I Love My County Because Art Contest

The art contest is designed to bolster civic education and educate communities on the role of county government.