Cities and Towns in Butte County, California
Founded in 1850, Butte County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. The city of Oroville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Butte County has a population of 208,309 and area of 1,640 square miles (4,248 km²).
List of all cities in Butte County, CA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bangor, CA | 95914 | 530 |
| Berry Creek, CA | 95916 | 530 |
| Biggs, CA | 95917 | 530 |
| Blue Shield of Cal, CA | 95976 | 530 |
| Brush Creek, CA | 95916 | 530 |
| Butte Creek, CA | 95928 | 530 |
| Butte Meadows, CA | 95942 | 530 |
| Butte Valley, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| California State University Chico, CA | 95929 | 530 |
| Chapmantown, CA | 95928 | 530 |
| Cherokee, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Chico, CA | 95926 | 530 |
| 95927 | 530 | |
| 95928 | 530 | |
| 95929 | 530 | |
| 95973 | 530 | |
| 95976 | 530 | |
| Clipper Mills, CA | 95930 | 530 |
| Cohasset, CA | 95973 | 530 |
| Dayton, CA | 95928 | 530 |
| Durham, CA | 95938 | 530 |
| 95958 | 530 | |
| East Gridley, CA | 95948 | 530 |
| Feather Falls, CA | 95940 | 530 |
| Forbestown, CA | 95941 | 530 |
| Forest Ranch, CA | 95942 | 530 |
| Gridley, CA | 95948 | 530 |
| Honcut, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Hurleton, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Jarbo, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Las Plumas, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Magalia, CA | 95954 | 530 |
| Manzanita, CA | 95948 | 530 |
| Nelson, CA | 95958 | 530 |
| Nimshew, CA | 95954 | 530 |
| Nord, CA | 95973 | 530 |
| Oak Grove, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Oregon City, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Oroville, CA | 95940 | 530 |
| 95965 | 530 | |
| 95966 | 530 | |
| Palermo, CA | 95968 | 530 |
| Paradise, CA | 95967 | 530 |
| 95969 | 530 | |
| Paradise Pines, CA | 95954 | 530 |
| Pentz, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Pulga, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Richardson Springs, CA | 95973 | 530 |
| Richvale, CA | 95974 | 530 |
| Robinsons Corner, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| South Oroville, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Stirling City, CA | 95978 | 530 |
| Thermalito, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Villa Verona, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Wyandotte, CA | 95965 | 530 |
| Yankee Hill, CA | 95965 | 530 |
Major Cities and Towns in Butte County, California
Chico
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 33.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 101,475 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95926, 95928, 95973
- Latitude: 39.7285° N
- Longitude: 121.8375° W
Location and History
Chico is the largest city in Butte County, located in the northern Sacramento Valley. Founded in 1860 by General John Bidwell, Chico quickly became a thriving agricultural center, known for its fertile soil and abundant water supply. The city was strategically located along the historic California and Oregon Trail, which contributed to its early growth and development. Chico State Normal School, now known as California State University, Chico, was established in 1887 and has played a significant role in the city’s educational and cultural development. Over the years, Chico has evolved into a vibrant community with a strong focus on education, arts, and outdoor recreation. The city’s historic downtown, tree-lined streets, and proximity to Bidwell Park, one of the largest municipal parks in the United States, make Chico a desirable place to live and visit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chico is served by the Chico Unified School District, with notable schools including Chico High School and Pleasant Valley High School. The city is also home to California State University, Chico, a key educational institution in the region. Major landmarks in Chico include Bidwell Park, which offers miles of trails, picnic areas, and scenic views, and the historic Bidwell Mansion, the former home of the city’s founder. The Chico Museum, located in a former Carnegie library building, provides insights into the city’s history and culture. The downtown area is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues, reflecting Chico’s blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
Oroville
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 17.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 19,895 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95965, 95966
- Latitude: 39.5138° N
- Longitude: 121.5564° W
Location and History
Oroville is the county seat of Butte County, located along the Feather River in the northern Sacramento Valley. The city was founded in 1856 during the California Gold Rush and quickly became a major supply center for gold miners in the Sierra Nevada. Oroville’s name, derived from the Spanish word “oro,” meaning gold, reflects its origins as a gold mining town. The construction of the Oroville Dam in the 1960s, one of the largest earth-fill dams in the world, transformed the city’s economy and landscape. The dam created Lake Oroville, a major recreational area and a key component of California’s State Water Project. Today, Oroville is known for its rich history, outdoor recreation opportunities, and its role as a regional hub for agriculture and tourism.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oroville is served by the Oroville Union High School District, with notable schools including Oroville High School and Las Plumas High School. The city’s major landmarks include the Oroville Chinese Temple, a historic site that reflects the city’s cultural diversity, and the Pioneer History Museum, which showcases the region’s gold rush history. Lake Oroville and the surrounding Oroville State Recreation Area offer opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The Feather River Fish Hatchery, located near the base of the Oroville Dam, is another key attraction, providing educational tours and a chance to see the salmon run. Oroville’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and natural beauty make it an important city in Butte County.
Paradise
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 18.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,764 (as of 2020, post-Camp Fire)
- Zip Codes: 95969
- Latitude: 39.7596° N
- Longitude: 121.6219° W
Location and History
Paradise is located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, northeast of Chico. The town was established in the late 19th century as a logging community and quickly grew into a popular mountain retreat due to its scenic location and pleasant climate. Paradise’s name is thought to have originated from early settlers who described the area as a “paradise” due to its beauty and abundant resources. The town’s economy was traditionally based on agriculture, particularly fruit orchards, and logging. In recent years, Paradise has faced significant challenges, most notably the devastating Camp Fire in 2018, which destroyed much of the town and led to a sharp decline in population. Despite this tragedy, the community has been working to rebuild and restore Paradise, maintaining its identity as a close-knit, resilient town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paradise is served by the Paradise Unified School District, with Paradise High School being the main educational institution. Major landmarks in the town include the Gold Nugget Museum, which chronicles the history of the area, particularly its gold mining and pioneer past. The Paradise Lake and surrounding parks offer opportunities for fishing, hiking, and picnicking, providing a tranquil escape in the Sierra Nevada foothills. The ongoing reconstruction efforts in Paradise are also part of the town’s new identity, with residents committed to rebuilding and preserving their community. Paradise’s combination of natural beauty, historical significance, and community spirit make it a unique part of Butte County.
Gridley
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 2.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,224 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95948
- Latitude: 39.3635° N
- Longitude: 121.6936° W
Location and History
Gridley is located in the southern part of Butte County, in the northern Sacramento Valley. The city was founded in 1905 by George W. Gridley, a successful rancher and businessman, who saw the potential for agricultural development in the fertile lands of the Sacramento Valley. Gridley quickly became a center for farming and agriculture, with crops such as peaches, almonds, walnuts, and rice playing a significant role in the local economy. The city’s location along the Southern Pacific Railroad further contributed to its growth, making it an important shipping and distribution center for agricultural products. Today, Gridley remains a close-knit community with deep agricultural roots and a strong sense of local identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gridley is served by the Gridley Unified School District, with notable schools including Gridley High School and Sycamore Middle School. The city’s major landmarks include the Historic Gridley Train Depot, which now serves as a community center and museum, reflecting the city’s early development and connection to the railroad. The Butte County Fairgrounds, located in Gridley, host the annual Butte County Fair, a popular event that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage with exhibits, competitions, and entertainment. The nearby Gray Lodge Wildlife Area offers opportunities for birdwatching, hunting, and outdoor recreation, attracting visitors from across the region. Gridley’s combination of historical significance, agricultural tradition, and community events make it an important city in Butte County.
Biggs
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,724 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95917
- Latitude: 39.4124° N
- Longitude: 121.7116° W
Location and History
Biggs is a small agricultural town located in the southwestern part of Butte County. The town was established in 1903 and was originally known as “Biggs Station,” named after Maj. Marion Biggs, a local politician and farmer who played a key role in the area’s development. Biggs was strategically located along the Northern Electric Railroad, which connected the agricultural regions of the Sacramento Valley to larger markets. The town quickly became a hub for the processing and shipment of agricultural products, particularly rice, which remains a major crop in the area. Today, Biggs is known for its small-town atmosphere, agricultural heritage, and strong community ties.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Biggs is served by the Biggs Unified School District, with Biggs High School and Biggs Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. The town’s major landmarks include the Biggs Carnegie Library, a historic building that has served the community since the early 20th century, and the Biggs Rice Mill, which reflects the town’s longstanding connection to the rice industry. The nearby Oroville Wildlife Area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and birdwatching. Biggs’ combination of historical significance, agricultural tradition, and rural charm make it a unique and important part of Butte County.
Map of Cities in Butte County, CA
