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

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The Marvelous Adventures of Countyland

An AI Experimental Publication of the National Association of Counties

The Marvelous Adventures of Countyland is an experimental publication created with generative AI. Its objectives are to showcase the capabilities of AI, to stimulate discussions regarding AI's applications in the public sector and to inspire young people around the role of county government.

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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.

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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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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.

How Counties Work

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Program

County Governance Project

NACo's County Governance Project provides 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

Counties are one of America’s original forms of government, dating back to 1634 when the first county governments (shires) were established in Virginia. The organization and structure of today’s 3,069 county governments are chartered under state constitutions or laws and are tailored to fit the needs and characteristics of the state and local areas.

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