Cities and Towns in Cedar County, Iowa
Founded on Dec 21, 1837, Cedar County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Cedar County was formed from Wisconsin Territory. The city of Tipton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 31, Cedar County has a population of 18,410 and area of 580 square miles (1,502 km²).
List of all cities in Cedar County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bennett, IA | 52721 | 563 |
| Buchanan, IA | 52772 | 563 |
| Cedar Bluff, IA | 52772 | 563 |
| Cedar Valley, IA | 52358 | 563 |
| Clarence, IA | 52216 | 563 |
| Downey, IA | 52358 | 563 |
| Durant, IA | 52747 | 563 |
| Herbert Hoover National Hist, IA | 52358 | 563 |
| Lowden, IA | 52255 | 563 |
| Massillon, IA | 52255 | 563 |
| Mechanicsville, IA | 52306 | 563 |
| Mechanicsvlle, IA | 52306 | 563 |
| Oasis, IA | 52358 | 563 |
| Rochester, IA | 52772 | 563 |
| Springdale, IA | 52358 | 563 |
| Stanwood, IA | 52337 | 563 |
| Tipton, IA | 52772 | 563 |
| West Branch, IA | 52358 | 563 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cedar County, Iowa
Tipton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.06 square miles
- Population: 3,149 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52772
- Latitude: 41.7694° N
- Longitude: 91.1285° W
Location and History
Tipton, the county seat of Cedar County, is located in eastern Iowa along U.S. Highway 38, roughly 40 miles east of Iowa City. Established in 1840, Tipton was named after General John Tipton, a prominent figure in Indiana’s early history. The town quickly grew as a center for trade and agriculture, with its rich farmland supporting a thriving agricultural economy. As the county seat, Tipton developed into an important hub for commerce, education, and local government. Today, the town continues to serve as a vital agricultural and business center for the region while retaining its small-town charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tipton is served by the Tipton Community School District, which includes Tipton High School. The town’s historical landmarks include the Cedar County Courthouse, a prominent structure built in 1859, reflecting Tipton’s role as the county seat. The Tipton City Park and Aquatic Center offer recreational opportunities for residents, while the historic Hardacre Theater hosts community events and performances. Each year, Tipton celebrates its heritage with the Tipton Hardacre Film Festival, attracting filmmakers and movie enthusiasts. The town also has a vibrant farmers market, connecting the community with its agricultural roots.
West Branch
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.21 square miles
- Population: 2,509 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52358
- Latitude: 41.6714° N
- Longitude: 91.3463° W
Location and History
West Branch is located in southeastern Cedar County, about 10 miles east of Iowa City, near Interstate 80. Founded in the mid-19th century, the town is best known as the birthplace of Herbert Hoover, the 31st President of the United States. The town grew rapidly due to its proximity to the railroad, which facilitated agricultural trade. West Branch’s historical significance extends beyond Hoover’s legacy, as it was an important center for Quaker settlement in Iowa. Today, West Branch balances its historical heritage with modern growth, attracting visitors to its preserved landmarks and offering a friendly, small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Branch is served by the West Branch Community School District, with West Branch High School as the main educational institution. The Herbert Hoover National Historic Site, which includes Hoover’s birthplace cottage, the Presidential Library and Museum, and his gravesite, is a major landmark that draws tourists from across the country. The town’s downtown area features historic buildings, local shops, and the Hoover Nature Trail, a popular route for walking and biking. West Branch also hosts Hoover’s Hometown Days, an annual celebration that includes parades, fireworks, and events honoring the town’s most famous resident.
Mechanicsville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.04 square miles
- Population: 1,020 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52306
- Latitude: 41.9075° N
- Longitude: 91.2541° W
Location and History
Mechanicsville is located in central Cedar County, about 12 miles northwest of Tipton, along U.S. Highway 30. Founded in 1855, Mechanicsville was named for the large number of mechanics and tradespeople who settled in the area. The town grew as a local service and trade center for surrounding farms, with the railroad playing a key role in its early development. Over time, agriculture became the primary industry, with grain and livestock production supporting the local economy. Today, Mechanicsville remains a close-knit, rural community with strong ties to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mechanicsville is part of the North Cedar Community School District, with students attending North Cedar High School in nearby Stanwood. The town’s key landmarks include Mechanicsville City Park, which offers recreational facilities and hosts community events. The town also boasts a historic downtown area with well-preserved 19th-century architecture. Mechanicsville Days is an annual festival that celebrates the town’s heritage with parades, live music, and other family-friendly activities. The town’s location near Cedar River offers residents opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing and hiking.
Clarence
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.13 square miles
- Population: 940 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52216
- Latitude: 41.8883° N
- Longitude: 91.0529° W
Location and History
Clarence is located in northeastern Cedar County, about 10 miles north of Tipton, along Iowa Highway 38. The town was founded in 1859 and named after Clarence, New York, reflecting the origins of many of its early settlers. Clarence grew as a small farming community, with agriculture forming the backbone of its economy. The town’s proximity to the railroad allowed for easy transport of goods, further boosting its development. Clarence has maintained its rural character and continues to serve as a center for local agriculture, particularly corn and soybean production.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarence is part of the North Cedar Community School District, with students attending North Cedar High School in Stanwood. The town’s notable landmarks include Clarence City Park, which serves as a venue for local events and recreational activities. The Clarence Depot Museum, housed in the town’s historic train depot, offers exhibits on the area’s railroad history and agricultural heritage. Clarence hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Clarence Summer Celebration, which features parades, games, and food vendors. The nearby Wapsipinicon River offers additional opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing.
Durant
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.59 square miles
- Population: 1,832 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52747
- Latitude: 41.6011° N
- Longitude: 90.9094° W
Location and History
Durant is located in the southeastern part of Cedar County, where it borders both Scott and Muscatine Counties. Founded in 1854 and named after Thomas C. Durant, a railroad executive, the town grew rapidly due to its strategic location along the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad. The town developed as a service and trade center for the surrounding agricultural region, with grain and livestock as the primary products. Today, Durant continues to thrive as a small, rural community with strong ties to farming and local businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Durant is part of the Durant Community School District, with Durant High School serving the local student population. The town’s key landmarks include Feldhahn Park, which provides recreational facilities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Durant Historical Society Museum, housed in a historic building, offers insights into the town’s railroad and agricultural history. Each year, Durant hosts the Durant Polka Fest, celebrating its German heritage with traditional music, dancing, and food. The nearby Cedar River and Scott County Park offer additional recreational opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping.
Stanwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.75 square miles
- Population: 589 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52337
- Latitude: 41.8947° N
- Longitude: 91.1522° W
Location and History
Stanwood is located in northeastern Cedar County, along U.S. Highway 30, about 15 miles northeast of Tipton. Founded in 1867, the town was named after Stanwood, Massachusetts, the hometown of an early settler. Stanwood grew as a small agricultural community, with the railroad playing a key role in its early development. Over the years, agriculture has remained the dominant industry, with the town serving as a service center for surrounding farms. Stanwood is known for its peaceful, rural lifestyle and strong community values.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stanwood is part of the North Cedar Community School District, with North Cedar High School located in the town. The Stanwood Heritage Museum, housed in a historic building, preserves the town’s history and showcases artifacts from its early days. The town is also home to several parks, including Stanwood City Park, which offers playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The annual Stanwood Day celebration brings residents together with parades, games, and other community activities. The nearby Cedar Valley Nature Trail provides opportunities for hiking and biking, making Stanwood a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
