Cities and Towns in Clay County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Clay County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Clay County was formed from Native American lands. The city of Spencer is the county seat. With FIPS code of 41, Clay County has a population of 16,440 and area of 569 square miles (1,474 km²).
List of all cities in Clay County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Dickens, IA | 51333 | 712 |
| Everly, IA | 51338 | 712 |
| Fostoria, IA | 51340 | 712 |
| Gillett Grove, IA | 51341 | 712 |
| Greenville, IA | 51343 | 712 |
| Peterson, IA | 51047 | 712 |
| Rossie, IA | 51357 | 712 |
| Royal, IA | 51343 | 712 |
| 51357 | 712 | |
| Spencer, IA | 51301 | 712 |
| Webb, IA | 51366 | 712 |
Major Cities and Towns in Clay County, Iowa
Spencer
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 11.18 square miles
- Population: 11,316 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 51301
- Latitude: 43.1459° N
- Longitude: 95.1477° W
Location and History
Spencer, the county seat of Clay County, is located in northwestern Iowa along U.S. Highway 18 and U.S. Highway 71. Established in 1871, Spencer grew as an important hub for the region due to its proximity to the Little Sioux River. Named after General Ingalls Spencer, a prominent figure in the railroad industry, the city thrived with the development of the railroad in the late 19th century, becoming a significant center for agriculture, trade, and transportation. The town is well known for its role in the agricultural industry, particularly in corn and soybean production. Over time, Spencer has evolved into a regional hub for commerce, healthcare, and education.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Spencer is served by the Spencer Community School District, with Spencer High School as the primary educational institution. The Clay County Fair, held annually in Spencer, is one of the largest county fairs in the U.S., attracting visitors from across the region with agricultural exhibitions, entertainment, and carnival rides. Spencer’s downtown district is home to the historic Spencer Theater and a variety of local shops. Another notable landmark is the Parker Historical Museum, which showcases the city’s rich heritage. The nearby Oneota Park provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, and fishing.
Everly
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.96 square miles
- Population: 587 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 51338
- Latitude: 43.2067° N
- Longitude: 95.3275° W
Location and History
Everly is located in western Clay County, approximately 12 miles northwest of Spencer, along Iowa Highway 18. Founded in 1884, the town was named after the Everly family, early settlers in the area. The town developed as an agricultural community, with the surrounding farmland supporting grain and livestock production. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred Everly’s growth as a local trading hub. Over the years, the town has maintained its agricultural roots and close-knit community spirit, providing a quiet, rural lifestyle for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Everly is part of the Clay Central-Everly Community School District, though high school students attend nearby Spencer High School due to district consolidation. Key landmarks in the town include Everly City Park, which provides recreational facilities for families and hosts community events. The town celebrates Everly Days, an annual event featuring parades, games, and local entertainment that reflects the town’s agricultural heritage. The nearby Waterman Creek Wildlife Area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and fishing, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Peterson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.43 square miles
- Population: 322 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 51047
- Latitude: 42.9125° N
- Longitude: 95.3425° W
Location and History
Peterson is located in southeastern Clay County, along the Little Sioux River, about 18 miles southeast of Spencer. Established in 1856, Peterson was named after early settler William W. Peterson. The town developed as a small agricultural and river trading community, with its location on the river providing power for early mills. Agriculture has remained the backbone of Peterson’s economy, with corn and livestock production continuing to be significant contributors. The town retains its historical charm and offers a peaceful, rural atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Peterson is part of the Sioux Central Community School District, with students attending Sioux Central High School in nearby Sioux Rapids. Notable landmarks in Peterson include the Peterson Heritage Museum, which showcases the town’s rich history, including its pioneer days and connection to the Little Sioux River. The nearby Prairie Heritage Center offers educational exhibits on local wildlife and prairie ecosystems. Peterson also hosts an annual Peterson Picnic, a community event that includes parades, games, and entertainment. The scenic river valley surrounding the town provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking.
Royal
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: 424 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 51357
- Latitude: 43.0672° N
- Longitude: 95.2869° W
Location and History
Royal is located in central Clay County, about 10 miles north of Spencer, along Iowa Highway 18. Founded in 1900, the town was named after Royal, Illinois, by settlers who hailed from that region. Royal developed as a small farming community, with its economy based on grain and livestock production. The arrival of the railroad helped boost the town’s growth, though Royal has remained a small, rural community focused on agriculture. Today, Royal maintains its agricultural roots while providing a peaceful environment for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Royal is part of the Clay Central-Everly Community School District, though high school students attend Spencer High School. The town’s primary landmarks include the Royal Community Center, which hosts local events and gatherings. Royal City Park provides playgrounds and picnic areas for outdoor recreation. Each summer, the town celebrates Royal Fun Days, an event that includes parades, games, and community-wide festivities. The town’s rural surroundings offer opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching in the nearby lakes and wetlands.
Sioux Rapids
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.79 square miles
- Population: 748 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50585
- Latitude: 42.8905° N
- Longitude: 95.1475° W
Location and History
Sioux Rapids is located near the northern border of Clay County, along the Little Sioux River, approximately 15 miles northeast of Spencer. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and named for the river rapids that flow nearby. Sioux Rapids developed as a milling and agricultural community, with its location on the river providing the necessary water power for early mills. As the town grew, it became a center for agricultural trade, serving the surrounding farming region. Today, Sioux Rapids continues to be a small, tight-knit community with a focus on agriculture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sioux Rapids is part of the Sioux Central Community School District, with Sioux Central High School serving the local area. The town’s notable landmarks include Sioux Rapids City Park, which offers recreational facilities for families and hosts local events. The Little Sioux River provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and canoeing, making it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Each year, the town celebrates Sioux Rapids River Days, a festival that features parades, live music, and community activities. The nearby Buena Vista County Park offers hiking trails, camping sites, and scenic views of the river valley.
Webb
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.27 square miles
- Population: 133 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 51366
- Latitude: 42.9325° N
- Longitude: 95.0489° W
Location and History
Webb is located in southeastern Clay County, about 20 miles southeast of Spencer. The town was established in 1900 and named after Webb, Alabama, by settlers who migrated from the southern U.S. Webb developed as a small agricultural community, with grain and livestock production forming the backbone of the local economy. The town has remained a small, rural community throughout its history, with agriculture continuing to be the primary economic driver. Webb offers a quiet, peaceful environment with close-knit community ties.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Webb is part of the Sioux Central Community School District, with students attending Sioux Central High School. The town’s key landmark is Webb City Park, which provides a green space for recreation and community events. Webb celebrates its agricultural heritage with the annual Webb Harvest Festival, which includes parades, games, and local food vendors. The nearby Lost Island Lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities. The surrounding farmland continues to play an important role in Webb’s economy and way of life.
