Cities and Towns in Boone County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 13, 1846, Boone County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Boone County was formed from Polk County. The city of Boone is the county seat. With FIPS code of 15, Boone County has a population of 26,723 and area of 572 square miles (1,481 km²).
List of all cities in Boone County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beaver, IA | 50031 | 515 |
| Boone, IA | 50036 | 515 |
| 50037 | 515 | |
| 50099 | 515 | |
| Boxholm, IA | 50040 | 515 |
| Luther, IA | 50152 | 515 |
| Madrid, IA | 50156 | 515 |
| Ogden, IA | 50212 | 515 |
| Pilot Mound, IA | 50223 | 515 |
| Zook Spur, IA | 50156 | 515 |
Major Cities and Towns in Boone County, Iowa
Boone
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 9.02 square miles
- Population: 12,460 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50036, 50037
- Latitude: 42.0609° N
- Longitude: 93.8809° W
Location and History
Boone is the county seat of Boone County, located in central Iowa along the banks of the Des Moines River. Established in 1865 and named after Captain Nathan Boone, the town grew rapidly due to its proximity to the railroad, specifically the Chicago & North Western Railway, which played a pivotal role in its development as a transportation hub. Boone became known for its coal mining industry in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town has preserved much of its historical charm, and today, Boone is known for its small-town atmosphere, strong community ties, and its connection to the annual Pufferbilly Days Festival, which celebrates the town’s railway heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Boone is home to Boone High School, serving the local community, along with the Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC) Boone Campus, providing higher education opportunities. Major landmarks in Boone include the Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad, offering historic train rides through the scenic Des Moines River Valley. The Mamie Doud Eisenhower Birthplace, the home of the former first lady, is a museum dedicated to her life. Ledges State Park, located just south of Boone, is one of Iowa’s most beautiful natural areas, featuring hiking trails and stunning sandstone cliffs.
Ogden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.99 square miles
- Population: 2,007 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50212
- Latitude: 42.0380° N
- Longitude: 94.0291° W
Location and History
Ogden is located in the western part of Boone County, just 10 miles west of Boone along U.S. Highway 30. The town was established in 1866, largely due to its proximity to the railroad, which helped facilitate the movement of goods and people. Ogden developed as an agricultural community, providing services to the surrounding farming areas. Its small-town charm and close-knit community make it a quintessential example of rural Iowa living. Over the years, Ogden has maintained its agricultural roots while slowly expanding its infrastructure to support the needs of modern residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ogden is served by the Ogden Community School District, which includes Ogden High School, a well-regarded institution with strong academic and athletic programs. The city’s primary landmark is the Leonard A. Good Community Center, which serves as a gathering place for local events and social activities. Don Williams Lake and Park, located just outside of Ogden, offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, hiking, camping, and picnicking, making it a popular spot for residents and visitors alike. The Boone & Scenic Valley Railroad’s tracks also pass near Ogden, further connecting the community to its railroading past.
Madrid
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.22 square miles
- Population: 2,802 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50156
- Latitude: 41.8769° N
- Longitude: 93.8216° W
Location and History
Madrid is situated in the southeastern corner of Boone County, near the Des Moines River and just 25 miles northwest of Des Moines. Originally settled by Swedish immigrants in the mid-19th century, Madrid was known for its coal mining industry, which played a significant role in the town’s growth during the late 1800s and early 1900s. The town’s name, pronounced “MAD-rid,” reflects its unique character and heritage. Over time, as coal mining diminished, Madrid became a small, residential town known for its strong community spirit and historical preservation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Madrid is part of the Madrid Community School District, with Madrid High School serving as the central educational institution. The town is also home to several historic sites, including the Madrid Historical Museum, which showcases the town’s rich history in coal mining and early settlement. A major attraction near Madrid is the High Trestle Trail Bridge, a striking art installation and pedestrian bridge that spans the Des Moines River, drawing visitors from across the state. Additionally, the town celebrates its heritage with the annual Madrid Labor Day Celebration, which features parades, music, and other festivities.
Luther
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.29 square miles
- Population: 122 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50152
- Latitude: 41.9692° N
- Longitude: 93.8230° W
Location and History
Luther is a small town located in the eastern part of Boone County, along U.S. Highway 17, about 6 miles southeast of Boone and 30 miles north of Des Moines. The town was founded in the late 1800s as a small agricultural settlement. Its development was closely tied to the expansion of the railroads in central Iowa. Although small, Luther has retained its rural charm and remains a tight-knit farming community. The town’s small population reflects its status as a residential and agricultural area with deep historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Luther is part of the Boone Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Boone. Due to its small size, Luther does not have its own schools but enjoys proximity to the educational resources in Boone. One of the key landmarks near Luther is the nearby Ledges State Park, a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering hiking, camping, and picnicking. The town’s quiet streets and rural landscapes make it a peaceful retreat for those seeking a small-town lifestyle, while its proximity to larger towns provides easy access to amenities.
Boxholm
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.25 square miles
- Population: 195 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50040
- Latitude: 42.1741° N
- Longitude: 94.1007° W
Location and History
Boxholm is located in the northwestern part of Boone County, about 18 miles from the county seat of Boone. Established in 1881 by Swedish immigrants, the town was named after Boxholm, Sweden, the original home of its founders. Boxholm developed as a small farming community, with its economy revolving around agriculture and local services. Like many small towns in Iowa, Boxholm experienced population declines throughout the 20th century, but it remains an active rural community that prides itself on its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Boxholm is part of the Southeast Webster-Grand Community School District, with most students attending schools in nearby Dayton or Burnside. Despite its small size, Boxholm has a few key landmarks, including the Boxholm Public Library, which serves as a central hub for community gatherings and educational resources. The town’s surrounding farmland and rural landscapes are defining features, offering residents a quiet and peaceful lifestyle. Boxholm’s small-town charm is complemented by the nearby Brushy Creek State Recreation Area, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and horseback riding.
