Cities and Towns in Guthrie County, Iowa

Founded on Jul 8, 1851, Guthrie County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Guthrie County was formed from Jackson County. The city of Guthrie Center is the county seat. With FIPS code of 77, Guthrie County has a population of 10,567 and area of 591 square miles (1,531 km²).

List of all cities in Guthrie County, IA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Arbor Hill, IA 50250 515
Bagley, IA 50026 641
Barrett Superette, IA 50164 641
Bayard, IA 50029 712
Canby, IA 50048 641
Casey, IA 50048 641
Dale, IA 50250 515
Glendon, IA 50164 641
Guthrie Center, IA 50115 641
Howe, IA 50250 515
Jamaica, IA 50128 641
Lake Panorama, IA 50216 641
Menlo, IA 50164 641
Panora, IA 50216 641
Stuart, IA 50250 515
Yale, IA 50277 641

Major Cities and Towns in Guthrie County, Iowa

Guthrie Center

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.38 square miles
  • Population: 1,493 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50115
  • Latitude: 41.6778° N
  • Longitude: 94.5025° W

Location and History

Guthrie Center, the county seat of Guthrie County, is located in west-central Iowa, along the Middle Raccoon River. Founded in 1856 and named after Captain Edwin B. Guthrie, a prominent figure during the early settlement, the town grew as an agricultural center. Its location along the river and nearby railroads made it a crucial hub for farmers transporting goods to larger markets. The town’s economy has historically been rooted in agriculture, particularly in the production of corn, soybeans, and livestock. Over the years, Guthrie Center has retained its small-town charm, while expanding as a center for local government and commerce.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Guthrie Center is served by the AC/GC Community School District, with Guthrie Center High School being a key educational institution in town. One of the town’s most recognizable landmarks is the Guthrie County Courthouse, built in 1964, which symbolizes the county’s administrative importance. Another notable site is Mitchell Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a swimming pool. Guthrie Center also provides access to the Raccoon River Valley Trail, a popular spot for biking and hiking. The town hosts the annual Guthrie County Fair, a celebration of the area’s agricultural roots with livestock shows, carnival rides, and local entertainment.

Panora

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.27 square miles
  • Population: 1,091 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50216
  • Latitude: 41.6925° N
  • Longitude: 94.3656° W

Location and History

Panora is located in northeastern Guthrie County, near the shores of Lake Panorama, one of Iowa’s largest private lakes. Founded in the mid-19th century, Panora developed as a local agricultural and trading community. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s accelerated its growth, making it a key point for transporting agricultural products. In the 1960s, the creation of Lake Panorama transformed Panora into a recreational destination, attracting both residents and visitors for water activities and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Panora is part of the Panorama Community School District, with Panorama High School serving the area. The town’s major landmarks include Lake Panorama, which offers boating, fishing, and golfing opportunities at the Lake Panorama National Golf Course. The Panorama West Golf Course and the Raccoon River Valley Trail also attract outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, the Guthrie County Historical Village, located in Panora, preserves the town’s rich history and showcases pioneer life. Panora’s combination of agricultural heritage and recreational appeal makes it a vibrant community for residents and tourists alike.

Stuart

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.57 square miles
  • Population: 1,782 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50250
  • Latitude: 41.4969° N
  • Longitude: 94.3183° W

Location and History

Stuart is located in the southeastern part of Guthrie County, along Interstate 80 and U.S. Highway 6, making it a key transportation hub in the region. Founded in 1870 by Charles Stuart, a railroad executive, the town quickly grew as a result of its proximity to the railroad. Stuart developed as an agricultural community, with farming and livestock production driving its early economy. Its location along major transportation routes continues to make Stuart an important town for trade and commerce in Guthrie County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Stuart is part of the West Central Valley Community School District, with West Central Valley High School serving the community. Landmarks in Stuart include the historic Saints Center for Culture and the Arts, which was originally a Catholic church and has been restored as a community arts center. Stuart also has a thriving downtown area, with several shops and restaurants catering to both residents and visitors. The annual Good Egg Days festival celebrates the town’s agricultural roots and features parades, games, and live music. With its strong transportation links and agricultural base, Stuart remains a vital part of Guthrie County.

Bayard

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.76 square miles
  • Population: 399 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50029
  • Latitude: 41.8533° N
  • Longitude: 94.5600° W

Location and History

Bayard is a small town located in northwestern Guthrie County, near the Middle Raccoon River. Founded in the late 19th century, Bayard grew as a rural agricultural community. The town was named after James Asheton Bayard, a prominent U.S. Senator from Delaware. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s allowed Bayard to grow as a local trading center for farmers in the area. Today, agriculture remains the backbone of Bayard’s economy, with corn and soybean farming being the primary industries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bayard is part of the Coon Rapids-Bayard Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Coon Rapids. Notable landmarks in Bayard include Bayard City Park, which offers playgrounds and picnic areas for residents. The nearby Raccoon River provides opportunities for fishing and boating. Bayard hosts several community events throughout the year, including Bayard Fun Days, a festival that features parades, games, and local entertainment. The town’s quiet rural setting and agricultural tradition make it a peaceful and close-knit community in Guthrie County.

Yale

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.31 square miles
  • Population: 253 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50277
  • Latitude: 41.7733° N
  • Longitude: 94.3631° W

Location and History

Yale is a small town located in northeastern Guthrie County, near the South Raccoon River. Established in the late 1800s, the town was named after Yale College in Connecticut, reflecting the influence of early settlers who valued education and community. Yale developed as a farming community, with its economy focused on agriculture and local trade. Although small, Yale has maintained its agricultural roots and community-centered way of life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Yale is part of the Panorama Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Panora. Key landmarks in Yale include Yale City Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and space for community events. The town’s close proximity to Lake Panorama makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. Yale also celebrates its small-town charm with local events throughout the year, bringing together residents for holiday celebrations and community gatherings. The town’s peaceful rural atmosphere and strong community ties make it an attractive place for those seeking a quiet lifestyle in Guthrie County.

Casey

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.81 square miles
  • Population: 387 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50048
  • Latitude: 41.5047° N
  • Longitude: 94.5197° W

Location and History

Casey is located in the southeastern corner of Guthrie County, near the Adair County line. Founded in 1869, the town was named after a prominent railroad figure, Casey Harlow, who helped establish the local railroad line. Casey developed as an agricultural and trading community, with its growth closely tied to the railroad’s presence. Over the years, Casey’s economy has remained focused on farming, with corn and soybeans as the primary crops.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Casey is part of the Adair-Casey Community School District, with students attending school in nearby Adair. The town’s key landmarks include Casey City Park, which offers playgrounds and picnic areas for residents. The annual Casey Fun Days festival celebrates the town’s heritage with parades, games, and community gatherings. Casey is also known for its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, which offer a glimpse into the town’s early history. The town’s rural charm, combined with its strong sense of community, makes Casey an inviting place for those seeking small-town living in Guthrie County.