How many counties are there in the state of Illinois?

Illinois is composed of 102 counties, making this the correct answer. Each county serves as a fundamental administrative division of the state, responsible for local governance and various public services. The structure of the counties in Illinois was established to facilitate closer management of community needs, allowing for an organized approach to governance.

The number of counties can sometimes be mistaken for other figures in different contexts or other states with varying administrative divisions, but in Illinois, 102 is the established count. This number has remained consistent since the state's boundaries were defined, demonstrating the stability and organization of local governance in Illinois. Understanding the significance of counties in the state's administration is important for grasping how local government functions within the larger framework of the state.