Cities and Towns in Dodge County, Minnesota
Founded in 1855, Dodge County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Dodge County was formed from Rice County and unorganized Territory. The city of Mantorville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 39, Dodge County has a population of 20,935 and area of 439.50 square miles (1,138 km²).
List of all cities in Dodge County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Berne, MN | 55985 | 507 |
| Canisteo, MN | 55944 | 507 |
| Claremont, MN | 55924 | 507 |
| Concord, MN | 55985 | 507 |
| Dodge Center, MN | 55927 | 507 |
| Hayfield, MN | 55940 | 507 |
| Kasson, MN | 55944 | 507 |
| Mantorville, MN | 55955 | 507 |
| Wasioja, MN | 55927 | 507 |
| West Concord, MN | 55985 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Dodge County, Minnesota
1. Claremont
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 55924
- Latitude: 44.0603° N
- Longitude: 92.9106° W
City Location and History
Claremont is a small city located in the southeastern part of Dodge County, Minnesota, approximately 15 miles southwest of the city of Owatonna and 60 miles south of Minneapolis. Claremont was established in the late 19th century and incorporated as a city in 1874. The area originally thrived as an agricultural hub, with farming and milling industries driving early growth. The city’s proximity to the Canadian Pacific Railway made it a key location for trade and transport, facilitating the movement of crops and goods.
Historically, Claremont has remained a small, tight-knit community, maintaining its rural charm while being close to the larger metropolitan areas of southern Minnesota. Over the years, Claremont has remained largely agricultural but is also becoming a more suburban area as people seek to move out of larger cities for quieter living while still being within commuting distance. With its small-town atmosphere, Claremont offers a slower pace of life while being close to larger regional centers like Owatonna and Rochester, providing residents with access to both rural peace and urban amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Claremont is served by the Hayfield School District, with schools like Hayfield High School and Claremont Elementary offering education to the local population. The schools are known for their personalized, community-oriented teaching. Claremont’s small-town charm is evident in the local landmarks and recreational facilities. The Claremont Park offers a community space with playgrounds, ball fields, and picnic areas. Lake Zumbro, a short drive away, is a popular spot for fishing and boating. The Claremont Community Center serves as the heart of the city, hosting events and community activities. Claremont is also home to the Claremont American Legion, which plays an active role in local events and celebrations, like Claremont Days, an annual festival that brings the town together with parades, games, and local vendors.
2. Kasson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.68 square miles
- Population: 6,600 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 55944
- Latitude: 44.0389° N
- Longitude: 92.8514° W
City Location and History
Kasson is located in Dodge County, about 10 miles northwest of Owatonna and 20 miles south of Rochester. It was founded in the mid-19th century, and the city was named after one of the area’s early settlers, D.J. Kasson. Incorporated in 1864, Kasson began as a small agricultural community and grew rapidly due to its proximity to the Minnesota Central Railroad. The railroad played a critical role in transporting grain and livestock, which facilitated Kasson’s expansion in the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Today, Kasson is a thriving suburban city with strong ties to agriculture and a growing residential community. The city has experienced significant growth over the past few decades due to its convenient location near Rochester, a major medical hub with the renowned Mayo Clinic. Kasson’s economy has diversified beyond agriculture, with more businesses and industries moving into the area. With its good schools, quiet suburban atmosphere, and close access to Rochester, Kasson is an attractive place for families seeking a balance between small-town living and proximity to urban amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kasson is served by the Kasson-Mantorville School District, which includes Kasson-Mantorville High School, Kasson-Mantorville Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic performance, athletic programs, and commitment to student success. The town is home to several key landmarks, including Kasson’s Historic Downtown, which has charming architecture and hosts the annual Kasson Day Parade and festivals. Kasson’s Memorial Park offers playgrounds, a pool, and sports fields, making it a popular destination for families. The Dodge County Historical Society features exhibits about the area’s history, including the early settlement days and agricultural heritage. The Hanks Hill Nature Preserve, located just outside the city, provides opportunities for hiking and wildlife observation. Rochester’s Quarry Hill Nature Center is a short drive away and offers trails and educational programs focused on nature and conservation. Kasson is also home to The Coney Island, a well-known local restaurant serving classic American fare.
3. Hayfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.13 square miles
- Population: 1,700 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 55940
- Latitude: 43.9663° N
- Longitude: 92.7843° W
City Location and History
Hayfield is located in the southern portion of Dodge County, approximately 12 miles east of Owatonna. The city was settled in the 1850s, with agriculture playing a key role in its early development. Its name was inspired by the nearby hayfields that provided essential hay for livestock. Hayfield was incorporated as a village in 1881 and became a city in 1959. The city’s location along the Dodge County Highway 30 provides convenient access to Owatonna and other surrounding cities.
Over the years, Hayfield has remained a small agricultural community, with farming, particularly corn and soybeans, continuing to be a central aspect of the economy. However, with its close proximity to Owatonna and Rochester, Hayfield is gradually becoming a more suburban community, with new housing developments and businesses emerging in recent years. The city’s slow but steady growth reflects its ability to retain its rural charm while offering modern amenities to its residents. The city’s rich history is evident in its architecture and local heritage sites, and it offers a quiet lifestyle with easy access to larger cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hayfield is served by the Hayfield Community Schools District, which includes Hayfield High School, Hayfield Middle School, and Hayfield Elementary School. The schools are well-regarded for their educational programs, athletic teams, and extracurricular activities. The city’s landmarks include the Hayfield Historical Society Museum, which offers exhibits about the city’s history and agricultural roots. The Hayfield City Park is a central recreational space, providing picnic areas, playgrounds, and sports fields for local residents. Hayfield Memorial Park is another popular spot, featuring walking trails, fishing, and a local memorial honoring veterans. The Hayfield Area Farmers Market is a seasonal market where locals can purchase fresh produce, flowers, and homemade goods. Hayfield also hosts an annual Hayfield Harvest Festival, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage with events, music, and parades. The Dodge County Fairgrounds, located nearby, offers another venue for community events and celebrations throughout the year. The city is known for its active community life, with local events and festivals that bring residents together.
4. West Concord
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.75 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Code: 55985
- Latitude: 44.0294° N
- Longitude: 93.1017° W
City Location and History
West Concord is a small city located in the western part of Dodge County, approximately 15 miles northwest of Owatonna. It was founded in the mid-1800s and was originally a farming and railroad community. The town grew rapidly with the arrival of the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad in the late 1800s, which made it a crucial point for grain and livestock transport. West Concord was incorporated in 1903.
The city retains its agricultural roots but has developed a more suburban atmosphere as nearby towns and cities expanded. It has become a quieter alternative to larger cities, offering a small-town environment while still providing access to the economic opportunities in Owatonna and Rochester. West Concord continues to attract families looking for a peaceful, rural setting with convenient transportation routes to urban centers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Concord is served by the Byron School District, with students attending Byron High School and Byron Middle School. The district provides strong educational programs and extracurricular activities for its students. In terms of landmarks, West Concord’s Memorial Park features a walking trail, sports fields, and picnic areas. The West Concord Library serves as an important cultural hub for the community, offering books, events, and educational programs. West Concord also hosts the annual West Concord Days, a local celebration with a parade, games, and entertainment. The nearby Sogn Valley Park offers outdoor recreation such as hiking and wildlife observation.
