Cities and Towns in Eaton County, Michigan
Founded in 1829, Eaton County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Eaton County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Charlotte is the county seat. With FIPS code of 45, Eaton County has a population of 108,944 and area of 579 square miles (1,500 km²).
List of all cities in Eaton County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bellevue, MI | 49021 | 269 |
| Charlotte, MI | 48813 | 517 |
| Dimondale, MI | 48821 | 517 |
| Eaton Rapids, MI | 48827 | 517 |
| Grand Ledge, MI | 48837 | 517 |
| Lansing, MI | 48908 | 517 |
| 48917 | 517 | |
| Mulliken, MI | 48861 | 517 |
| Olivet, MI | 49076 | 269 |
| Potterville, MI | 48876 | 517 |
| Sunfield, MI | 48890 | 517 |
| Vermontville, MI | 49096 | 517 |
Major Cities and Towns in Eaton County, Michigan
1. Charlotte
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 6.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,036 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48813
- Latitude: 42.5631° N
- Longitude: 84.8358° W
Location and History
Charlotte, the county seat of Eaton County, is located 20 miles southwest of Lansing. Established in 1832, it was named after the wife of one of its founders, Edmond Bostwick. Charlotte quickly became a center for agriculture and commerce due to its fertile land and strategic location near early transportation routes. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further boosted its growth, connecting the town to larger markets and fostering industrial development. Throughout its history, Charlotte has retained its small-town charm while growing into a regional center for government, education, and business.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Charlotte is served by Charlotte Public Schools, with Charlotte High School being the primary educational institution. Key landmarks include the historic Eaton County Courthouse, a beautiful example of 19th-century architecture, now serving as a museum. Bennett Park offers sports facilities, walking trails, and picnic areas, making it a popular spot for community gatherings. The Charlotte Performing Arts Center provides cultural entertainment, hosting concerts, plays, and community events. Charlotte is also home to the annual Eaton County Fair, one of the oldest and largest fairs in Michigan, attracting visitors for its agricultural displays, carnival rides, and entertainment.
2. Eaton Rapids
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,225 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48827
- Latitude: 42.5092° N
- Longitude: 84.6550° W
Location and History
Eaton Rapids is located in the southeastern part of Eaton County along the Grand River. Known as the “Island City” due to its unique geography, the city is situated on several small islands formed by the river. Founded in 1837, Eaton Rapids was originally developed as a health resort, famous for its mineral springs. The city later became an important agricultural and industrial hub, particularly in woolen milling. Eaton Rapids also has a rich history in the abolitionist movement, serving as a station on the Underground Railroad.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eaton Rapids is part of Eaton Rapids Public Schools, with Eaton Rapids High School serving the local community. Major landmarks include Island Park, a picturesque park located in the heart of downtown, offering walking trails, picnic spots, and river access. The historic Miller Ice Cream Parlor, operating since 1907, is a local favorite. Babcock Park, located along the river, offers camping, fishing, and scenic views. Eaton Rapids celebrates its heritage with the annual Island Fest, which includes live music, parades, and fireworks, drawing visitors from across the region. The Eaton Rapids Historical Museum preserves artifacts and stories from the city’s past.
3. Grand Ledge
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,783 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48837
- Latitude: 42.7553° N
- Longitude: 84.7464° W
Location and History
Grand Ledge is located northwest of Lansing along the Grand River. The city is named after the impressive sandstone ledges that rise above the river, which were carved by glacial activity thousands of years ago. Founded in 1850, Grand Ledge became a popular resort town in the late 19th century, attracting tourists to its mineral springs, amusement parks, and scenic views. The Grand Ledge Opera House, built in 1884, was a center for entertainment during this period. While the tourism industry has faded, the city has maintained its historic charm and developed into a vibrant community with a mix of residential, commercial, and recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grand Ledge is served by Grand Ledge Public Schools, with Grand Ledge High School being the largest educational institution. Major landmarks include the Grand Ledge Ledges, a popular spot for hiking, climbing, and photography. Island Park, located in the middle of the Grand River, offers picnic areas, fishing, and walking trails. The Grand Ledge Opera House remains a key cultural venue, hosting weddings, performances, and community events. The annual Grand Ledge Color Cruise and Island Festival celebrates the city’s natural beauty with riverboat rides, crafts, and historic reenactments.
4. Potterville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,617 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48876
- Latitude: 42.6314° N
- Longitude: 84.7456° W
Location and History
Potterville is located just south of Grand Ledge and west of Lansing. The town was founded in 1844 by Linus Potter, who established a mill on the local river, giving the village its name. Potterville grew as a small agricultural community, benefiting from its location along the railroad line, which facilitated the transport of farm goods. The town has maintained its rural charm over the years while developing into a peaceful residential community with close ties to nearby cities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Potterville is part of the Potterville Public Schools district, with Potterville High School serving the local population. Major landmarks include Lake Alliance Park, which offers walking trails, sports fields, and a serene lake for fishing and kayaking. The Potterville Campground provides outdoor enthusiasts with opportunities for camping and picnicking. Potterville City Hall, housed in a historic building, reflects the town’s long-standing community spirit. The annual Potterville Gizzard Fest, a quirky festival celebrating fried gizzards, includes live music, a carnival, and parades, attracting visitors from across the state.
5. Dimondale
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.89 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,303 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 48821
- Latitude: 42.6469° N
- Longitude: 84.6506° W
Location and History
Dimondale is a small village located southwest of Lansing, along the Grand River. Established in the 1850s, the village was named after Isaac Dimond, one of the early settlers in the area. Originally an agricultural community, Dimondale grew slowly but steadily due to its location near major transportation routes. In the early 20th century, the village became known for its contributions to the automotive industry, with several local businesses providing parts and services to the nearby factories in Lansing. Today, Dimondale retains its small-town charm while benefiting from its proximity to the state capital.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dimondale is part of the Eaton Rapids Public Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby Eaton Rapids. Major landmarks in the village include Dimondale Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and river access for fishing and kayaking. Waverly Golf Course, located just outside of the village, provides a scenic and challenging course for golfers. The Dimondale Community Center hosts local events and serves as a gathering place for residents. The village’s annual Dimondale Days Festival includes parades, games, and live entertainment, celebrating the community’s history and strong sense of togetherness.
