Cities and Towns in Chemung County, New York

Founded in 1836, Chemung County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Chemung County was formed from Tioga County. The city of Elmira is the county seat. With FIPS code of 15, Chemung County has a population of 83,045 and area of 410.81 square miles (1,064 km²).

List of all cities in Chemung County, NY alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Big Flats, NY	14814	607
Breesport, NY	14816	607
Chemung, NY	14825	607
Elmira, NY	14901	607
	14902	607
	14903	607
	14904	607
	14905	607
	14925	607
Elmira Heights, NY	14903	607
Erin, NY	14838	607
Horseheads, NY	14845	607
Lowman, NY	14861	607
Millport, NY	14864	607
Pine City, NY	14871	607
Pine Valley, NY	14872	607
Van Etten, NY	14889	607
Wellsburg, NY	14894	607

Major Cities and Towns in Chemung County, New York

Elmira

Overview

• Area: 7.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 27,000
• Zip Codes: 14901-14905
• Latitude: 42.0898° N
• Longitude: 76.8077° W

Elmira, the county seat and largest city in Chemung County, is located near the Pennsylvania border along the Chemung River. Established in the early 19th century, Elmira initially developed as a transportation and trade hub due to its location along the Chemung Canal and later the Erie Railroad. The city is historically significant as the site of a Civil War prison camp and as the summer residence of renowned author Mark Twain, who is buried in Elmira’s Woodlawn Cemetery. Over the years, Elmira evolved into a center for industry and education, maintaining its status as a cultural and economic hub for the county.

Education and Landmarks

Elmira is served by the Elmira City School District, with Elmira High School providing a variety of academic and athletic programs. Elmira College, a private liberal arts college, is a prominent educational institution that also houses the Mark Twain Study, where the author wrote many of his famous works. Other notable landmarks include the Arnot Art Museum, featuring American art collections, and the Chemung Valley History Museum, which explores the region’s history. The historic Woodlawn Cemetery, where Mark Twain is buried, attracts literary enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its rich history, educational institutions, and cultural attractions, Elmira continues to be a vibrant center of activity in Chemung County.

Horseheads

Overview

• Area: 3.9 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,500
• Zip Codes: 14845
• Latitude: 42.1676° N
• Longitude: 76.8202° W

Horseheads, a village north of Elmira, is known for its unique name and historical roots. The village’s name dates back to the Revolutionary War, when horses used by the Continental Army were buried in the area after succumbing to fatigue. The village later developed as a transportation hub with the arrival of the Erie Canal and railroad. Today, Horseheads is a thriving suburban community that balances residential areas with commercial and industrial developments, serving as an important economic center within the county.

Education and Landmarks

Horseheads is served by the Horseheads Central School District, with Horseheads High School known for its strong academics and sports programs. Key landmarks include the Wings of Eagles Discovery Center, an aviation museum and education center featuring exhibits on flight and space exploration. Teal Park, a historic site in the village center, is a gathering place for community events and concerts. The town also celebrates its heritage with annual events like the Horseheads Pumpkin Festival, fostering community pride and engagement. With its mix of history, education, and modern amenities, Horseheads is a dynamic and welcoming village in Chemung County.

Big Flats

Overview

• Area: 46.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 7,700
• Zip Codes: 14814, 14845
• Latitude: 42.1498° N
• Longitude: 76.9394° W

Big Flats, located to the west of Elmira, is a town known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor recreational opportunities. Settled in the early 19th century, Big Flats was originally an agricultural community and remains a rural town with a strong sense of community. The Chemung River runs through the town, adding to its natural beauty and offering recreational options. With the development of retail centers and business parks, Big Flats has grown as a residential area and commercial hub within Chemung County.

Education and Landmarks

The town is served by the Horseheads Central School District, with Big Flats Elementary School providing primary education to local children. Notable landmarks include the Tanglewood Nature Center and Museum, which offers nature trails, educational programs, and wildlife exhibits. The Community Park in Big Flats is popular for its sports facilities and picnic areas, providing a space for outdoor gatherings. Arnot Mall, the region’s largest shopping center, is also located in Big Flats, serving as a commercial and social hub. With its balance of natural beauty, educational resources, and retail amenities, Big Flats is a vibrant part of Chemung County.

Southport

Overview

• Area: 49.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 10,000
• Zip Codes: 14894
• Latitude: 42.0442° N
• Longitude: 76.8096° W

Southport is a town located directly south of Elmira, known for its rural charm and historical sites. Established in the early 19th century, Southport developed as a farming community with strong ties to agriculture. The town is home to several historic structures and is characterized by scenic countryside landscapes. While Southport has maintained its rural appeal, it also has a strong residential community, with many residents commuting to Elmira and surrounding areas for work and services.

Education and Landmarks

Southport is served by the Elmira City School District, with Southside High School providing educational opportunities for students. Key landmarks include Chapel Park, which offers sports fields, walking trails, and community gathering spaces, and the historic Newtown Battlefield, a site of significance from the American Revolutionary War that is located nearby. Southport’s rural landscapes, historical sites, and family-friendly atmosphere make it a desirable community within Chemung County.

Elmira Heights

Overview

• Area: 1.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,000
• Zip Codes: 14903
• Latitude: 42.1307° N
• Longitude: 76.8305° W

Elmira Heights is a small village located just north of Elmira, known for its historic architecture and community spirit. Incorporated in the late 19th century, Elmira Heights developed as a residential area with strong ties to industry, particularly the American LaFrance company, which manufactured fire engines. Today, Elmira Heights is a quiet, close-knit community with historic homes and a traditional village atmosphere, making it an attractive residential area for families and commuters.

Education and Landmarks

Elmira Heights is served by the Elmira Heights Central School District, with Thomas A. Edison High School providing education to local students. Notable landmarks include the Zim House, a historic residence that was home to the famous cartoonist Eugene “Zim” Zimmerman, and the village’s historic churches, which reflect its architectural heritage. Community events, such as the annual Elmira Heights Community Days, foster a sense of local pride and engagement. With its small-town charm and historical significance, Elmira Heights is a welcoming village within Chemung County.

Van Etten

Overview

• Area: 40.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,500
• Zip Codes: 14889
• Latitude: 42.2009° N
• Longitude: 76.5553° W

Van Etten is a rural town located in the northern part of Chemung County, near the border with Tompkins County. Founded in the early 19th century, Van Etten has a strong agricultural tradition and remains a primarily rural community with a peaceful, scenic environment. The town is surrounded by rolling hills, forests, and streams, making it popular for outdoor enthusiasts. With its small population and expansive landscapes, Van Etten offers a tranquil lifestyle and a close-knit community.

Education and Landmarks

Van Etten is part of the Spencer-Van Etten Central School District, with Spencer-Van Etten High School providing education to local students. Major landmarks include the Van Etten Farmer’s Market, which supports local agriculture, and the nearby Connecticut Hill Wildlife Management Area, which offers hiking, hunting, and bird-watching opportunities. The town also hosts community events like the Van Etten Fall Festival, fostering local engagement and celebrating its agricultural heritage. With its rural charm and commitment to community, Van Etten is an idyllic spot within Chemung County.