Indiana Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)
How many counties are there in Indiana? As of 2024, there are a total of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Among them, Knox County is the oldest one (established in 1790) while Newton County is the youngest (established in 1859). With population of 903,393, Marion County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Allen County (1,702 km²) and the smallest is Ohio County (223 km²).
Largest Counties in Indiana
1. Allen County
County Seat: Fort Wayne
- Area: 660 square miles
- Population: Approximately 385,410 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 260
- Latitude: 41.0938° N
- Longitude: 85.0707° W
Location and History
Allen County is located in northeastern Indiana and is the largest county in the state by population. It was established on December 17, 1823, and was named after Colonel John Allen, a hero of the War of 1812. The county’s history is deeply connected to its county seat, Fort Wayne, which was founded at the confluence of three rivers: the St. Joseph, St. Marys, and Maumee. Fort Wayne became a key trading post and later an industrial hub, particularly in the railroad and manufacturing sectors. The county’s development has been shaped by its strategic location as a transportation and economic center in the region.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Allen County is served by several major highways, including Interstates 69 and 469, which provide critical connections to other parts of Indiana and neighboring states. U.S. Highways 24, 27, 30, and 33 also traverse the county, enhancing its accessibility. Notable landmarks include the Fort Wayne Children’s Zoo, one of the top-rated zoos in the country, and the historic Embassy Theatre. The Fort Wayne Museum of Art and Parkview Field, home of the Fort Wayne TinCaps, are key cultural and recreational sites. The county is also known for the Allen County Courthouse, a National Historic Landmark recognized for its architectural significance.
2. Marion County
County Seat: Indianapolis
- Area: 403 square miles
- Population: Approximately 977,203 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 317, 463
- Latitude: 39.7684° N
- Longitude: 86.1581° W
Location and History
Marion County is located in central Indiana and is home to Indianapolis, the state capital and largest city. The county was established on April 1, 1822, and named after Francis Marion, a Revolutionary War hero known as the “Swamp Fox.” Indianapolis was chosen as the state capital due to its central location, which facilitated its growth as a political, economic, and cultural hub. Over the years, Marion County has become synonymous with Indianapolis, with the city’s development shaping the county’s identity. The region’s history is marked by its role in the automobile industry, manufacturing, and sports, particularly with the Indianapolis 500.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Marion County is a transportation nexus, intersected by major highways including Interstates 65, 69, 70, and 74. U.S. Highways 31, 36, 40, and 52 also run through the county. Key landmarks include the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, the site of the world-famous Indianapolis 500, and Monument Circle, the heart of downtown Indianapolis. The Indiana State Capitol, the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis, and the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields are major cultural attractions. Additionally, White River State Park and the Indianapolis Zoo offer recreational opportunities in the heart of the city.
3. Lake County
County Seat: Crown Point
- Area: 498 square miles
- Population: Approximately 498,700 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 219
- Latitude: 41.4170° N
- Longitude: 87.3651° W
Location and History
Lake County is located in the northwestern corner of Indiana, bordering Lake Michigan and the state of Illinois. It was established on February 16, 1837, and is named after its proximity to Lake Michigan. The county’s history is closely linked to its industrial development, particularly in steel production, with cities like Gary becoming major centers for the industry. Lake County’s location near Chicago has also influenced its growth, with the region developing as a suburban and industrial extension of the Chicago metropolitan area.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Lake County is served by major highways, including Interstates 65, 80, 90, and 94, which connect the area to Chicago and other parts of the Midwest. U.S. Highways 6, 12, 20, 30, and 41 also pass through the county. Key landmarks include Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers scenic views of Lake Michigan and diverse ecosystems. The county is also home to the historic Crown Point Courthouse, the site of John Dillinger’s famous escape. Other notable sites include the Gary Aquatorium and the South Shore Line, a commuter rail line connecting the region to Chicago.
4. Elkhart County
County Seat: Goshen
- Area: 467 square miles
- Population: Approximately 207,047 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 574
- Latitude: 41.5821° N
- Longitude: 85.8486° W
Location and History
Elkhart County is located in northern Indiana, known for its rich Amish heritage and its role as a center of the recreational vehicle (RV) manufacturing industry. The county was established on April 1, 1830, and its name is believed to be derived from a Native American word meaning “elk’s heart.” The county’s early history was marked by agriculture, with Amish and Mennonite communities settling in the area. Over time, Elkhart County became a hub for manufacturing, particularly in the production of RVs and musical instruments, contributing significantly to its economic growth.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Elkhart County is served by major highways such as the Indiana Toll Road (Interstate 80/90) and U.S. Highway 20, which run east-west across the county. State Roads 15 and 19 also provide north-south access. Notable landmarks include the Amish Acres Historic Farm & Heritage Resort in Nappanee, which offers insights into Amish culture. The county is also home to the RV/MH Hall of Fame and Museum, highlighting the region’s manufacturing legacy. The Elkhart Jazz Festival, held annually in downtown Elkhart, is a significant cultural event that attracts visitors from across the country.
5. Tippecanoe County
County Seat: Lafayette
- Area: 503 square miles
- Population: Approximately 195,732 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 765
- Latitude: 40.4185° N
- Longitude: 86.8753° W
Location and History
Tippecanoe County is located in west-central Indiana and is home to Purdue University, one of the leading research universities in the United States. The county was established on March 1, 1826, and is named after the Tippecanoe River, which played a significant role in the Battle of Tippecanoe in 1811. The county’s history is marked by its agricultural roots and its development as an educational center with the founding of Purdue University in 1869. The university has since become the county’s economic and cultural heart, driving growth and innovation in the region.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Tippecanoe County is intersected by Interstate 65, which runs north-south, connecting the county to Indianapolis and Chicago. U.S. Highways 52, 231, and State Road 25 also serve the area. Key landmarks include Purdue University, with its impressive campus and cultural institutions like the Elliott Hall of Music and the Purdue Memorial Union. The Tippecanoe Battlefield Park in Battle Ground commemorates the historic 1811 battle. The county is also home to Prophetstown State Park, offering a glimpse into Native American history and the natural beauty of the region.
6. LaPorte County
County Seat: LaPorte
- Area: 613 square miles
- Population: Approximately 111,467 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 219
- Latitude: 41.6021° N
- Longitude: 86.7349° W
Location and History
LaPorte County is located in northwestern Indiana, along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It was established on January 29, 1832, and its name, meaning “The Door” in French, reflects its status as a gateway to the region. The county’s history is closely tied to its natural resources, including timber and later, its industrial development. The city of LaPorte became a key manufacturing center in the 19th and 20th centuries, while Michigan City, another major city in the county, developed as a port and industrial town.
Major Highways and Landmarks
LaPorte County is served by major highways including Interstates 80, 90, and 94, as well as U.S. Highways 20, 35, and 421. The county is home to several notable landmarks, such as the Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities along the Lake Michigan shoreline. The Barker Mansion in Michigan City is a historic site reflecting the county’s industrial past. LaPorte’s Pine Lake and the LaPorte County Historical Society Museum are other key attractions, highlighting the region’s natural beauty and rich history.
7. Vigo County
County Seat: Terre Haute
- Area: 410 square miles
- Population: Approximately 107,038 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 812, 930
- Latitude: 39.4693° N
- Longitude: 87.3897° W
Location and History
Vigo County is located in western Indiana, along the Illinois border. The county was established on February 1, 1818, and was named after Francis Vigo, an Italian-American who aided American forces during the Revolutionary War. The county seat, Terre Haute, developed as an industrial and educational center, particularly with the establishment of Indiana State University and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology. Vigo County’s history is characterized by its strategic location along the Wabash River, which facilitated trade and transportation, contributing to its growth as a regional hub.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Vigo County is accessible via Interstate 70, which runs east-west, connecting the county to Indianapolis and St. Louis. U.S. Highways 40, 41, and 150 also serve the area. Key landmarks include the Eugene V. Debs Museum in Terre Haute, dedicated to the labor leader and presidential candidate, and the Swope Art Museum, which features a significant collection of American art. The county is also home to the Wabash Valley Dragway and the Terre Haute Action Track, popular venues for motorsports. Additionally, the Vigo County Courthouse and Deming Park are important historical and recreational sites.
8. Delaware County
County Seat: Muncie
- Area: 395 square miles
- Population: Approximately 111,903 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 765
- Latitude: 40.1946° N
- Longitude: 85.3794° W
Location and History
Delaware County is located in east-central Indiana and is known for its industrial history and educational institutions. The county was established on January 26, 1827, and was named after the Delaware Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. Muncie, the county seat, became a significant industrial center in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly during the Indiana Gas Boom. The city also gained fame as the subject of the “Middletown” studies, which examined the social and cultural life of a typical American small city. Today, Ball State University is a central part of the county’s identity and economy.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Delaware County is served by Interstate 69, which runs north-south, and U.S. Highways 35 and 67, which provide regional connectivity. Notable landmarks include Ball State University, with its beautiful campus and cultural offerings such as the David Owsley Museum of Art. The Minnetrista cultural center and gardens celebrate the region’s history and heritage. The county is also home to the Muncie Children’s Museum and the Cardinal Greenway, a popular rail-trail for outdoor recreation. The historic Wysor Street Depot is another key site, reflecting the county’s transportation history.
9. Kosciusko County
County Seat: Warsaw
- Area: 554 square miles
- Population: Approximately 79,344 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 574
- Latitude: 41.2434° N
- Longitude: 85.8486° W
Location and History
Kosciusko County is located in northern Indiana and is named after Tadeusz Kościuszko, a Polish-Lithuanian military leader who fought in the American Revolutionary War. The county was established on February 7, 1835, and Warsaw, the county seat, developed as a center for commerce and industry. The county’s early economy was based on agriculture, but it later became known for its orthopedic manufacturing industry, with Warsaw earning the nickname “Orthopedic Capital of the World.” The county’s numerous lakes, including Lake Wawasee and Tippecanoe Lake, have also made it a popular destination for recreation and tourism.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Kosciusko County is served by U.S. Highways 30 and 31, which provide easy access to nearby cities such as Fort Wayne and South Bend. State Roads 13, 15, and 25 also run through the county. Key landmarks include the Warsaw Biblical Gardens and the Winona Lake Historic District, which features charming shops and historical sites. The county’s natural beauty is highlighted by its many lakes, parks, and nature preserves, making it a popular spot for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities. The Wagon Wheel Center for the Arts in Warsaw is another cultural landmark, hosting theater productions and events.
10. Madison County
County Seat: Anderson
- Area: 452 square miles
- Population: Approximately 130,129 (2020 census)
- Area Codes: 765
- Latitude: 40.1085° N
- Longitude: 85.6768° W
Location and History
Madison County is located in central Indiana, northeast of Indianapolis. The county was established on January 4, 1823, and was named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. Anderson, the county seat, developed as an industrial center during the Indiana Gas Boom, particularly in the automobile and manufacturing industries. The county’s history is also marked by its involvement in the spiritualist movement, with the community of Camp Chesterfield becoming a well-known center for spiritualism in the early 20th century. Today, Madison County continues to blend its industrial heritage with cultural and recreational amenities.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Madison County is accessible via Interstate 69, which provides a direct route to Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. U.S. Highways 36 and 37, along with State Roads 9, 32, and 67, also serve the area. Notable landmarks include Mounds State Park, which features ancient earthworks built by prehistoric Native American cultures. The Paramount Theatre in Anderson is a historic venue that hosts a variety of performances and events. The county is also home to Hoosier Park Racing & Casino, a popular destination for horse racing and gaming. Additionally, the Anderson Museum of Art and the historic Gruenewald House are key cultural sites.
List of All Counties in Indiana Alphabetically
Below please see all Indiana counties which are listed in alphabetical order.
- Adams County, IN
- Allen County, IN
- Bartholomew County, IN
- Benton County, IN
- Blackford County, IN
- Boone County, IN
- Brown County, IN
- Carroll County, IN
- Cass County, IN
- Clark County, IN
- Clay County, IN
- Clinton County, IN
- Crawford County, IN
- Daviess County, IN
- Dearborn County, IN
- Decatur County, IN
- DeKalb County, IN
- Delaware County, IN
- Dubois County, IN
- Elkhart County, IN
- Fayette County, IN
- Floyd County, IN
- Fountain County, IN
- Franklin County, IN
- Fulton County, IN
- Gibson County, IN
- Grant County, IN
- Greene County, IN
- Hamilton County, IN
- Hancock County, IN
- Harrison County, IN
- Hendricks County, IN
- Henry County, IN
- Howard County, IN
- Huntington County, IN
- Jackson County, IN
- Jasper County, IN
- Jay County, IN
- Jefferson County, IN
- Jennings County, IN
- Johnson County, IN
- Knox County, IN
- Kosciusko County, IN
- LaGrange County, IN
- Lake County, IN
- LaPorte County, IN
- Lawrence County, IN
- Madison County, IN
- Marion County, IN
- Marshall County, IN
- Martin County, IN
- Miami County, IN
- Monroe County, IN
- Montgomery County, IN
- Morgan County, IN
- Newton County, IN
- Noble County, IN
- Ohio County, IN
- Orange County, IN
- Owen County, IN
- Parke County, IN
- Perry County, IN
- Pike County, IN
- Porter County, IN
- Posey County, IN
- Pulaski County, IN
- Putnam County, IN
- Randolph County, IN
- Ripley County, IN
- Rush County, IN
- Saint Joseph County, IN
- Scott County, IN
- Shelby County, IN
- Spencer County, IN
- Starke County, IN
- Steuben County, IN
- Sullivan County, IN
- Switzerland County, IN
- Tippecanoe County, IN
- Tipton County, IN
- Union County, IN
- Vanderburgh County, IN
- Vermillion County, IN
- Vigo County, IN
- Wabash County, IN
- Warren County, IN
- Warrick County, IN
- Washington County, IN
- Wayne County, IN
- Wells County, IN
- White County, IN
- Whitley County, IN
Map of Indiana Counties
