Cities and Towns in Bay County, Michigan
Founded in 1857, Bay County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Bay County was formed from parts of Arenac, Midland, and Saginaw Counties. The city of Bay City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 17, Bay County has a population of 102,985 and area of 631 square miles (1,634 km²).
List of all cities in Bay County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Auburn, MI | 48611 | 989 |
| Bay City, MI | 48706 | 989 |
| 48707 | 989 | |
| 48708 | 989 | |
| 48710 | 989 | |
| Bentley, MI | 48613 | 989 |
| Essexville, MI | 48732 | 989 |
| Kawkawlin, MI | 48631 | 989 |
| Linwood, MI | 48634 | 989 |
| Munger, MI | 48747 | 989 |
| Pinconning, MI | 48650 | 989 |
| Rhodes, MI | 48613 | 989 |
| University Center, MI | 48710 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Bay County, Michigan
1. Bay City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 11.21 square miles
- Population: Approximately 32,661 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48706, 48708
- Latitude: 43.5945° N
- Longitude: 83.8889° W
Location and History
Bay City, the largest city in Bay County, is located on the eastern side of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula along the Saginaw River, near Saginaw Bay and Lake Huron. Founded in 1837 as a lumbering town, it was originally called Lower Saginaw. The city’s strategic position along the river made it a key transportation hub during the lumber boom of the mid-1800s. It became known as Bay City in 1857, and the area continued to thrive with the rise of shipbuilding, commerce, and manufacturing. In the 20th century, Bay City grew into a vibrant industrial center, with industries ranging from shipyards to automobile manufacturing. Today, it retains much of its historic charm while embracing modern economic and cultural developments.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bay City is served by Bay City Public Schools, which includes Bay City Central High School and Western High School. Major landmarks include Wenonah Park, which hosts concerts and festivals along the waterfront. The Saginaw Riverwalk is a scenic trail that connects many of the city’s parks and landmarks. The USS Edson, a decommissioned Navy destroyer, is now a floating museum and part of the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. The State Theatre, a restored 1930s art deco theater, hosts cultural events, and Bay City’s Tall Ship Celebration draws visitors from around the world.
2. Essexville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.44 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,400 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48732
- Latitude: 43.6158° N
- Longitude: 83.8411° W
Location and History
Essexville is a small city located just east of Bay City along the Saginaw River. Founded in the mid-1800s, the city was named after Ransom Essex, one of the early settlers in the area. Like Bay City, Essexville’s early economy was driven by the lumber industry, which thrived due to the proximity to the river and Great Lakes shipping routes. As the lumber industry waned, Essexville transitioned to more diversified industries, including manufacturing and services. Today, it serves as a quieter, suburban community while still playing a role in the greater Bay City metropolitan area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Essexville is part of the Essexville-Hampton Public Schools, with Garber High School being the main secondary school. A notable landmark in the city is Smith Park, located along the Saginaw River, offering scenic views and recreational opportunities. Heritage House Museum showcases Essexville’s rich history and development. The Saginaw Bay Yacht Club is another key institution, serving the local boating community. The Consumers Energy Weadock Generating Plant, although decommissioned, played a significant role in the local economy for decades and remains a well-known site in the region.
3. Pinconning
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.28 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,307 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48650
- Latitude: 43.8575° N
- Longitude: 83.9650° W
Location and History
Pinconning is located north of Bay City along US-23, near the shores of Saginaw Bay. Established in 1872, the town’s name is derived from the Ojibwa word “Pinconning,” meaning “place where the wild potatoes grow.” The region became known for its dairy farming and cheese production, particularly for Pinconning cheese, a sharp, flavorful cheese that became a local specialty and put the town on the map. Today, Pinconning remains a quiet, agricultural community known for its cheese shops and access to outdoor recreation, particularly along the Pinconning River and nearby Saginaw Bay.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pinconning is part of the Pinconning Area Schools, with Pinconning High School serving the community. The town is famous for the Pinconning Cheese Factory, which attracts visitors from around Michigan looking to sample the town’s renowned cheese. Pinconning Park, located on the shores of Saginaw Bay, offers camping, fishing, and hiking, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The town hosts the annual Pinconning Cheese Festival, which celebrates its dairy heritage with parades, events, and cheese tastings. The Pinconning River also offers opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
4. Auburn
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.33 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,087 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48611
- Latitude: 43.6036° N
- Longitude: 84.0678° W
Location and History
Auburn is located west of Bay City and lies between Bay City and Midland along US-10. The city was originally settled in the mid-19th century and became a prominent farming community. As transportation routes improved, Auburn grew, with a particular focus on agriculture and small manufacturing industries. The town’s small-town charm and location between two major cities, Bay City and Midland, have made it a desirable place for residents who want a quieter lifestyle while still being close to urban centers. Auburn’s rich farming history continues to play a role in its community identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Auburn is part of the Bay City Public Schools system, with students attending Western High School. One of the city’s landmarks is Auburn Park, which hosts community events, sports, and recreational activities. The city also celebrates Auburn Cornfest, an annual festival that highlights the town’s agricultural roots with a parade, carnival, and corn-eating contest. Williams Township Hall is a central point for community gatherings, while the surrounding farmlands and Rail Trail provide scenic areas for outdoor activities like hiking and biking. Auburn’s proximity to Dow Gardens and Whiting Forest in Midland also makes it a popular spot for nature lovers.
5. Kawkawlin
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.59 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,036 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48631
- Latitude: 43.6783° N
- Longitude: 83.9681° W
Location and History
Kawkawlin is a small unincorporated community located along the Kawkawlin River in northern Bay County, near the Saginaw Bay. The area was originally settled in the mid-1800s and developed around the river, which played an important role in the community’s early economy, particularly in lumbering and shipping. The name “Kawkawlin” is derived from a Native American word meaning “crooked river.” Over time, the community transitioned to farming, and today it remains a largely rural area known for its river access and proximity to Bay City.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kawkawlin is served by the Bangor Township Schools, with John Glenn High School being the nearest secondary school. Kawkawlin River, a key landmark, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and kayaking, making it popular with outdoor enthusiasts. The Bay City State Recreation Area, located nearby, is one of the largest marsh wetlands on the Great Lakes and provides a rich environment for birdwatching, hiking, and camping. Frankenlust Township Park and Saganing Eagles Landing Casino are additional landmarks in the region, offering entertainment and recreation for locals and visitors alike.