Cities and Towns in Gratiot County, Michigan

Founded in 1831, Gratiot County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Gratiot County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Ithaca is the county seat. With FIPS code of 57, Gratiot County has a population of 41,544 and area of 572 square miles (1,481 km²).

List of all cities in Gratiot County, MI alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alma, MI	48801	989
	48802	989
Ashley, MI	48806	989
Bannister, MI	48807	989
Breckenridge, MI	48615	989
Elm Hall, MI	48830	989
Elwell, MI	48832	989
Ithaca, MI	48847	989
Middleton, MI	48856	989
North Star, MI	48862	989
Perrinton, MI	48871	989
Pompeii, MI	48874	989
Riverdale, MI	48877	989
Saint Louis, MI	48880	989
Sumner, MI	48889	989
Total Petroleum, MI	48802	989
Wheeler, MI	48662	989

Major Cities and Towns in Gratiot County, Michigan

1. Alma

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 6.09 square miles
• Population: Approximately 8,802 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48801
• Latitude: 43.3789° N
• Longitude: 84.6591° W

Location and History

Alma, the largest city in Gratiot County, is located along the Pine River in the central part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula. Established in 1853, Alma grew rapidly with the advent of the railroad in the late 19th century, becoming a hub for manufacturing and agriculture. Alma was also known for its oil boom in the early 20th century, which brought significant economic growth to the area. The city is home to Alma College, a private liberal arts college founded in 1886, which has played a central role in the city’s cultural and educational life. Alma is known as the “Scotland, USA” because of its strong ties to Scottish heritage, celebrated annually with its Highland Festival.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alma is served by Alma Public Schools, with Alma High School as the primary secondary institution. Key landmarks include Alma College, whose beautiful campus hosts many cultural and athletic events. Riverside Park offers trails, fishing, and picnicking along the Pine River. Alma Highland Festival and Games, held each Memorial Day weekend, is one of the largest Scottish festivals in the country, featuring traditional Highland games, music, and dancing. Fred Meijer Heartland Trail provides scenic routes for biking and walking. The Alma Opera House, a historic building, showcases the city’s rich cultural heritage.

2. St. Louis

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 3.51 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,446 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48880
• Latitude: 43.4089° N
• Longitude: 84.6061° W

Location and History

St. Louis, located on the Pine River, is known as the “Middle of the Mitten” due to its central location in Michigan. Founded in 1853, the city initially developed as a milling and agricultural community, benefiting from the river’s water power. In the late 19th century, St. Louis became a popular resort destination after the discovery of mineral springs, and it briefly gained fame for its health spas. However, the industry faded in the early 20th century, and the town returned to its agricultural roots. Today, St. Louis is a small but vibrant community that embraces its historical charm and central location.

Major Schools and Landmarks

St. Louis is served by St. Louis Public Schools, with St. Louis High School as the main educational institution. Significant landmarks include Leppien Park, which offers access to the Pine River for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The St. Louis Historical Museum preserves the town’s history, including artifacts from its days as a mineral springs resort. Clapp Park provides recreational facilities, including playgrounds and sports fields. The city is also home to the Alma/St. Louis Dam, a historical site that played a key role in the area’s development. Each year, the St. Louis Middle of the Mitten Festival celebrates the city’s unique geographical location and community spirit.

3. Ithaca

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 5.30 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,910 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48847
• Latitude: 43.2908° N
• Longitude: 84.6072° W

Location and History

Ithaca, the county seat of Gratiot County, is located near the geographical center of the county. Established in 1851, the town was named after Ithaca, New York, by early settlers from the East Coast. Ithaca developed as an agricultural community, benefiting from the rich farmland of central Michigan. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s spurred growth, allowing for the easy transportation of agricultural products. Today, Ithaca remains a quiet, rural community with a strong connection to farming, while also serving as a center for local government and services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ithaca is served by Ithaca Public Schools, with Ithaca High School known for its strong academic and athletic programs. Major landmarks include the Gratiot County Courthouse, a historic building in the heart of downtown that serves as the seat of county government. Reed Park offers walking paths, sports fields, and picnic areas, providing a central gathering spot for the community. McNabb Park, located on the outskirts of town, is a popular destination for hiking and wildlife viewing. The Ithaca Harvest Festival, held annually, celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage with parades, craft shows, and family-friendly activities.

4. Breckenridge

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.50 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,328 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48615
• Latitude: 43.4094° N
• Longitude: 84.4783° W

Location and History

Breckenridge is a small village located in the southeastern part of Gratiot County. Established in the 1870s, the village grew around the railroad, which played a vital role in transporting agricultural products from the surrounding farmlands. Breckenridge has remained a primarily agricultural community, with local farms producing a variety of crops, including corn, soybeans, and wheat. Despite its small size, Breckenridge has a close-knit community and offers a peaceful rural lifestyle with easy access to nearby cities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Breckenridge is part of the Breckenridge Community Schools district, with Breckenridge High School serving local students. Key landmarks include Wheeler Park, which provides sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas. Breckenridge Historical Museum showcases the village’s history, including exhibits on the role of the railroad and local agriculture. Shannon Park offers additional recreational space, with walking paths and a pond for fishing. The annual Breckenridge Car Show and Festival draws visitors from across the region, featuring classic cars, live music, and family-friendly events.

5. Ashley

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.04 square miles
• Population: Approximately 526 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48806
• Latitude: 43.1875° N
• Longitude: 84.4797° W

Location and History

Ashley is a small village located in the southeastern corner of Gratiot County. The town was founded in the 1880s as a stop along the Ann Arbor Railroad, which connected it to larger markets in Michigan and beyond. Ashley grew as a farming community, with its economy centered around agriculture and local industries. In recent years, Ashley has gained attention for its “Christmas at the Village” attraction, which transforms the town into a holiday-themed destination each winter, bringing visitors from across the state to experience its unique charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ashley is part of the Ashley Community Schools district, with Ashley High School serving the village’s student population. Notable landmarks include Railroad Park, which pays homage to the town’s origins as a railroad stop and offers recreational opportunities for residents. Downtown Ashley features several historic buildings that reflect the town’s early development, and Village Park offers a playground and picnic areas for family gatherings. The village’s Christmas at the Village event is its most famous attraction, turning the town into a festive holiday wonderland with light displays, train rides, and Santa visits during the holiday season.