Cities and Towns in Warren County, Iowa

Founded on Jan 13, 1846, Warren County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Warren County was formed from Polk County. The city of Indianola is the county seat. With FIPS code of 181, Warren County has a population of 53,402 and area of 572 square miles (1,481 km²).

List of all cities in Warren County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Ackworth, IA	50001	515
Avon, IA	50047	515
Avon Lake, IA	50047	515
Carlisle, IA	50047	515
Churchville, IA	50211	515
Cool, IA	50125	515
Cumming, IA	50061	515
Hartford, IA	50118	515
Indianola, IA	50125	515
Jamison, IA	50210	641
Lacona, IA	50139	641
Lakewood, IA	50211	515
Liberty, IA	50210	641
Liberty Center, IA	50145	641
Martensdale, IA	50160	641
Medora, IA	50125	515
Milo, IA	50166	641
New Virginia, IA	50210	641
Newbern, IA	50139	641
Norwalk, IA	50211	515
Orillia, IA	50061	515
Palmyra, IA	50047	515
Prole, IA	50229	515
Saint Marys, IA	50241	641
Sandyville, IA	50001	515
Scotch Ridge, IA	50047	515
Spring Hill, IA	50125	515
Summerset, IA	50125	515
WDM, IA	50061	515
West Des Moines, IA	50061	515

Major Cities and Towns in Warren County, Iowa

Indianola

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 11.25 square miles
• Population: Approximately 15,900 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50125
• Latitude: 41.3667° N
• Longitude: 93.5571° W

City Location and History

Indianola, the county seat of Warren County, is located in central Iowa, about 18 miles south of Des Moines. Founded in 1849, Indianola was named after the city of Indianola, Texas. The town quickly became a hub of local governance and commerce due to its strategic location near the capital city. Indianola’s growth was further propelled by the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century, which connected it to larger markets. Known for its rich historical ties to agriculture and education, Indianola is home to Simpson College, established in 1860, which played a crucial role in shaping the town’s intellectual and cultural life. Today, Indianola is a vibrant community that blends small-town charm with proximity to the economic opportunities of Des Moines.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Indianola is served by the Indianola Community School District, with Indianola High School being one of the prominent educational institutions. Simpson College is a key landmark, along with Buxton Park, a beautiful botanical garden and public park in the city. Another major attraction is the National Balloon Museum, which celebrates the city’s status as the host of the annual National Balloon Classic, a renowned hot air balloon event. The Des Moines Metro Opera, headquartered in Indianola, is also a cultural landmark, attracting visitors for its summer festival performances.

Norwalk

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 11.09 square miles
• Population: Approximately 12,000 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50211
• Latitude: 41.4858° N
• Longitude: 93.6764° W

City Location and History

Norwalk is located just south of Des Moines in the northwestern part of Warren County. Established in the 1850s, Norwalk grew slowly as a rural farming community but began to expand more rapidly in the mid-20th century as suburban development from Des Moines began to reach the area. The city’s proximity to the Des Moines International Airport and the Des Moines metro area has made it a popular location for commuters looking for a small-town feel while being close to urban amenities. Over the years, Norwalk has transformed from a quiet agricultural town into a thriving suburban community, yet it retains much of its original rural character and close-knit atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Norwalk is served by the Norwalk Community School District, which includes Norwalk High School, a well-regarded institution known for academic and athletic achievements. Major landmarks include the Legacy Golf Club, a premier golf course that attracts players from across the region. McAninch Sports Complex, another key facility, provides fields for soccer, baseball, and softball, serving as a hub for local sports and recreation. Lake Colchester, located nearby, offers fishing and boating opportunities, enhancing Norwalk’s appeal as a destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Carlisle

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 5.53 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,300 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50047
• Latitude: 41.5008° N
• Longitude: 93.4899° W

City Location and History

Carlisle is located in the northeastern corner of Warren County, bordering Polk County and just southeast of Des Moines. The town was established in the mid-19th century as a small agricultural settlement. Its development was closely tied to its location near the Des Moines River, which facilitated trade and transportation during the early years. Carlisle’s growth accelerated in the late 20th century as suburban development expanded from the Des Moines metropolitan area, making it a desirable residential community for those working in the city. Despite its proximity to the capital, Carlisle retains a small-town charm, with a strong sense of community and rural heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carlisle is part of the Carlisle Community School District, which includes Carlisle High School, known for its strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Scotch Ridge Nature Park, which offers trails and green space for outdoor recreation. The Carlisle City Park and aquatic center provide additional recreational options for residents. The Summerset Trail, a popular trail for biking and walking, connects Carlisle to other parts of Warren County and is a key feature of the local outdoor culture. Carlisle is also located near the South River, offering scenic views and opportunities for fishing and kayaking.

Cumming

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.62 square miles
• Population: Approximately 450 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50061
• Latitude: 41.4870° N
• Longitude: 93.7691° W

City Location and History

Cumming is a small town located in the northwestern part of Warren County, just south of West Des Moines. Founded in the late 1800s, Cumming began as a small farming community and has remained one of the smallest towns in the county. It is named after Thomas Cumming, an early settler who contributed to the area’s development. The city has historically been a quiet rural area, with its small population sustained by agricultural activities and its proximity to larger neighboring cities. In recent years, Cumming has experienced slight growth as suburban development continues to expand outward from Des Moines.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cumming does not have its own school district, so students typically attend schools in nearby cities, such as Norwalk or West Des Moines. One of the most notable landmarks in Cumming is the Great Western Trail, a 16.5-mile trail that passes through the town, attracting hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts. Cumming also features several small parks and green spaces, contributing to its peaceful, rural ambiance. The city’s proximity to larger towns allows residents to enjoy both the quiet of the countryside and the convenience of nearby urban amenities.

Milo

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.83 square miles
• Population: Approximately 800 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50166
• Latitude: 41.2894° N
• Longitude: 93.4449° W

City Location and History

Milo is a small town located in the southern part of Warren County, approximately 25 miles southeast of Des Moines. Established in the late 19th century, Milo grew as a farming and railway town, serving as a trading post for the surrounding agricultural community. The town’s history is deeply connected to the rural farming traditions of Iowa, with many families in the area having farmed the land for generations. Milo has retained its small-town character throughout the decades, with a strong focus on community and agricultural values.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Milo is part of the Southeast Warren Community School District, with Southeast Warren High School serving the area. A key landmark in Milo is the Milo City Park, which hosts local festivals, sports events, and gatherings. The Warren County Fairgrounds, located nearby, also hosts the annual county fair, drawing visitors from across the region. Another notable feature is the proximity to the North River, which offers recreational opportunities for fishing and kayaking. Despite its small size, Milo is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to preserving its rural heritage.

Hartford

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.55 square miles
• Population: Approximately 800 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50118
• Latitude: 41.4614° N
• Longitude: 93.4015° W

City Location and History

Hartford is a small town in northeastern Warren County, situated southeast of Des Moines. Like many small towns in Iowa, Hartford’s development in the late 19th century was driven by agriculture and the expansion of the railroad. It served as a center for local farming communities, with the railroad facilitating the transport of goods. Over time, Hartford remained a modest, rural town, with its population staying relatively small but stable. Its proximity to Des Moines has made it an attractive place for those seeking a quiet lifestyle within commuting distance of the city.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hartford is part of the Carlisle Community School District, with students attending nearby schools such as Carlisle High School. The town is known for its community park, Hartford City Park, which features playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, making it a central gathering spot for residents. Nearby, the South River provides scenic views and opportunities for fishing and canoeing. Hartford is also close to Banner Lakes at Summerset State Park, a popular outdoor recreation area that offers hiking, fishing, and camping, adding to the town’s rural appeal for nature lovers.