Cities and Towns in Fayette County, Iowa
Founded on Dec 21, 1837, Fayette County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Fayette County was formed from Clayton County and Wisconsin Territory. The city of West Union is the county seat. With FIPS code of 65, Fayette County has a population of 19,258 and area of 731 square miles (1,893 km²).
List of all cities in Fayette County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Albany, IA | 52142 | 563 |
| Alpha, IA | 52171 | 563 |
| Arlington, IA | 50606 | 563 |
| Brainard, IA | 52141 | 563 |
| Clermont, IA | 52135 | 563 |
| Donnan, IA | 52142 | 563 |
| Douglas, IA | 52175 | 563 |
| Eldorado, IA | 52175 | 563 |
| Elgin, IA | 52141 | 563 |
| Fayette, IA | 52142 | 563 |
| Hawkeye, IA | 52147 | 563 |
| Jackson Jct, IA | 52171 | 563 |
| Jackson Junction, IA | 52171 | 563 |
| Lima, IA | 52142 | 563 |
| Maryville, IA | 50606 | 563 |
| Maynard, IA | 50655 | 563 |
| Oelwein, IA | 50662 | 319 |
| Oran, IA | 50664 | 319 |
| Randalia, IA | 52164 | 563 |
| Saint Lucas, IA | 52166 | 563 |
| Wadena, IA | 52169 | 563 |
| Waucoma, IA | 52171 | 563 |
| West Union, IA | 52175 | 563 |
| Westgate, IA | 50681 | 563 |
Major Cities and Towns in Fayette County, Iowa
Oelwein
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.91 square miles
- Population: 5,920 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50662
- Latitude: 42.6744° N
- Longitude: 91.9141° W
Location and History
Oelwein, the largest city in Fayette County, is located in northeastern Iowa. It was founded in the 1870s and named after Gustav Oelwein, an early settler who played a crucial role in the town’s development. Oelwein quickly became an important railroad hub, thanks to the Chicago Great Western Railway, which established large repair shops in the town. The town thrived as an industrial and agricultural center, with its economy bolstered by farming, livestock, and manufacturing. Today, Oelwein continues to serve as a regional hub for commerce and industry while preserving its rich railroad history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oelwein is served by the Oelwein Community School District, with Oelwein High School being the primary secondary school. Notable landmarks include the Hub City Heritage Railway Museum, which showcases the town’s history as a major railroad center. Oelwein City Park and the nearby Fontana Park offer outdoor recreation opportunities, including camping, fishing, and hiking. Oelwein also celebrates its heritage with the annual Fourth of July celebration, featuring parades, fireworks, and family activities. The town’s historic downtown area is home to local shops and restaurants, maintaining a blend of small-town charm and modern amenities.
West Union
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.57 square miles
- Population: 2,471 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52175
- Latitude: 42.9619° N
- Longitude: 91.8093° W
Location and History
West Union, the county seat of Fayette County, was founded in 1849 and originally named Knob Prairie. The town was later renamed West Union after the city in Ohio, reflecting the origins of some of its settlers. West Union developed as an agricultural and trading center, benefiting from its location at the intersection of several key transportation routes. The town has long been the administrative and economic center of the county, with a strong agricultural base and a commitment to preserving its historical character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Union is part of the North Fayette Valley Community School District, with North Fayette Valley High School serving the area. Landmarks in the town include the historic Fayette County Courthouse, built in 1924, which stands as a symbol of the town’s central role in county affairs. West Union’s downtown district is known for its historical architecture, including well-preserved 19th-century buildings. The town also boasts the West Union Recreation Complex, which offers sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds. West Union hosts the Fayette County Fair each year, drawing visitors for livestock shows, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits.
Fayette
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.51 square miles
- Population: 1,256 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52142
- Latitude: 42.8414° N
- Longitude: 91.8025° W
Location and History
Fayette is located in central Fayette County, along the banks of the Volga River. Founded in 1851, the town was named after the Marquis de Lafayette, the French hero of the American Revolution. Fayette grew as an agricultural and educational center, with the founding of Upper Iowa University in 1857 being a defining moment in its history. The university remains a key institution in the town, attracting students from across the state and beyond. Fayette has retained its small-town charm while benefiting from the university’s presence, making it both a residential and educational hub.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fayette is home to Upper Iowa University, which is the town’s most significant educational institution. The university’s campus, with its historic buildings and beautiful green spaces, is one of the town’s major landmarks. The Volga River Recreation Area, located just outside Fayette, offers hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town celebrates its history and community spirit with events like Watermelon Days, featuring parades, games, and local food. Fayette’s unique blend of higher education and natural beauty makes it a vibrant and welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
Clermont
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.08 square miles
- Population: 589 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52135
- Latitude: 43.0005° N
- Longitude: 91.6536° W
Location and History
Clermont is a small town located in northeastern Fayette County, along the Turkey River. Founded in the mid-19th century, Clermont became known for its scenic beauty and was nicknamed the “Gem of the Hills.” The town was home to William Larrabee, Iowa’s 13th governor, who played a significant role in the state’s development during the late 19th century. Larrabee’s historic mansion, Montauk, is one of the town’s key attractions. Clermont’s location along the river made it a hub for local trade, and today it remains a quiet, picturesque community with a rich historical heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clermont is part of the North Fayette Valley Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby West Union. Montauk, the mansion of Governor Larrabee, is the town’s most prominent landmark, offering tours and insights into Iowa’s political history. Clermont is also home to Clermont City Park and a stretch of the Turkey River, which provides opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and hiking. The town hosts an annual Montauk Festival, celebrating its history with parades, reenactments, and local food. Clermont’s historic buildings and riverfront location make it a charming and historically significant town in Fayette County.
Elgin
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.03 square miles
- Population: 683 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52141
- Latitude: 42.9597° N
- Longitude: 91.6367° W
Location and History
Elgin is located in northeastern Fayette County, along the Turkey River, about 4 miles east of Clermont. The town was founded in the 1850s and developed as a small agricultural community. Its location on the river made it a convenient spot for milling and local trade. Like many small towns in the region, Elgin’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and livestock production playing central roles. Despite its small size, Elgin has a strong community spirit and a dedication to preserving its rural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elgin is part of the North Fayette Valley Community School District, with students attending North Fayette Valley High School. The town’s key landmarks include Elgin City Park and the Turkey River, which offers outdoor recreation such as fishing, canoeing, and hiking. The town’s downtown area features several historic buildings, and Elgin hosts the annual Turkey River Days, which celebrates the town’s connection to the river with parades, games, and local entertainment. The surrounding rural landscape offers additional opportunities for outdoor activities, making Elgin a peaceful and scenic place to live.
Hawkeye
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: 404 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 52147
- Latitude: 42.9386° N
- Longitude: 91.9519° W
Location and History
Hawkeye is located in northwestern Fayette County, about 12 miles west of West Union. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Iowa’s nickname, the “Hawkeye State.” Hawkeye developed as a small farming community, with its economy primarily based on agriculture and local businesses. Over the years, the town has maintained its rural character and small-town atmosphere, providing a peaceful environment for its residents. Despite its small size, Hawkeye plays an important role in the local agricultural industry, with corn and soybeans being the primary crops.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hawkeye is part of the North Fayette Valley Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns. The town’s main landmark is Hawkeye City Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields for local residents. The town celebrates its community spirit with the annual Hawkeye Fun Days, featuring parades, games, and local food vendors. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and hunting. Hawkeye’s quiet, rural setting and strong sense of community make it a welcoming place for those seeking small-town living in Iowa.
Maynard
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.10 square miles
- Population: 491 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50655
- Latitude: 42.7694° N
- Longitude: 91.8806° W
Location and History
Maynard is located in southwestern Fayette County, about 10 miles west of Oelwein. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Maynard, Massachusetts, reflecting the origins of some of its settlers. Maynard developed as an agricultural community, with farming and livestock playing central roles in the local economy. The arrival of the railroad helped boost the town’s growth, connecting it to larger markets and facilitating the transportation of agricultural products. Today, Maynard remains a small, close-knit community with a strong agricultural base.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Maynard is part of the West Central Community School District, with West Central High School serving the local area. Key landmarks include Maynard City Park, which provides playgrounds, picnic areas, and green spaces for community events. The town hosts Maynard Days each year, a festival that celebrates the town’s history with parades, live music, and games. The surrounding farmland offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, hunting, and fishing, making Maynard a peaceful rural community with a strong connection to its agricultural roots.
