Cities and Towns in Hamilton County, Iowa

Founded on Dec 22, 1856, Hamilton County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Hamilton County was formed from Webster County. The city of Webster City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 79, Hamilton County has a population of 14,887 and area of 577 square miles (1,494 km²).

List of all cities in Hamilton County, IA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Blairsburg, IA 50034 515
Ellsworth, IA 50075 515
Jewell, IA 50130 515
Kamrar, IA 50132 515
Randall, IA 50231 515
Stanhope, IA 50246 515
Stratford, IA 50249 515
Webster City, IA 50595 515
Williams, IA 50271 515

Major Cities and Towns in Hamilton County, Iowa

Webster City

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 8.91 square miles
  • Population: 7,825 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50595
  • Latitude: 42.4694° N
  • Longitude: 93.8150° W

Location and History

Webster City, the county seat of Hamilton County, is located in central Iowa along the Boone River and U.S. Highway 20. Founded in 1854 and originally known as Newcastle, the town was renamed Webster City in honor of Daniel Webster, a prominent American statesman. Webster City grew as an agricultural and industrial center, with its economy boosted by the development of the railroad in the late 19th century. The town’s manufacturing base expanded over the years, particularly in the fields of construction and agriculture-related industries. Today, Webster City is a regional hub for commerce and services, with a vibrant downtown area and strong ties to the surrounding farming community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Webster City is served by the Webster City Community School District, with Webster City High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks include the historic Kendall Young Library, an architectural gem that has been serving the community since 1905. The Boone River Trail is a popular destination for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The Hamilton County Fairgrounds, located in Webster City, host the annual Hamilton County Fair, a celebration of local agriculture featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and entertainment. Webster City also offers a variety of parks, including Riverside Park, which is a favorite spot for picnics and family outings.

Ellsworth

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.02 square miles
  • Population: 505 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50075
  • Latitude: 42.3128° N
  • Longitude: 93.5808° W

Location and History

Ellsworth is located in southern Hamilton County, along Interstate 35 and Iowa Highway 175. The town was founded in 1880 and named after Colonel Elmer Ellsworth, a Union officer in the Civil War and the first Union officer to be killed in the conflict. Ellsworth developed as a small farming community, with its economy centered on agriculture and grain production. The arrival of the railroad contributed to the town’s growth, making it an important shipping point for local farmers. Although small, Ellsworth has maintained its agricultural roots and a strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ellsworth is part of the South Hamilton Community School District, with students attending South Hamilton High School in nearby Jewell. Key landmarks in Ellsworth include Ellsworth City Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and a sports field for local residents. The town’s historical ties are reflected in its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, including several homes and buildings in the downtown area. Each year, Ellsworth hosts community events like the Ellsworth Summer Celebration, which features parades, games, and local food. The town’s rural charm and proximity to Interstate 35 make it a peaceful yet accessible place to live.

Jewell

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.33 square miles
  • Population: 1,216 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50130
  • Latitude: 42.3078° N
  • Longitude: 93.6414° W

Location and History

Jewell is located in southern Hamilton County, along U.S. Highway 69. Founded in 1881 and named after D.T. Jewell, a local businessman, the town grew as an agricultural and educational center. Jewell was home to Jewell Lutheran College, a private educational institution that operated until the early 20th century. The town developed as a local hub for farming, with corn, soybeans, and livestock playing a major role in the economy. Today, Jewell maintains its agricultural heritage while offering a variety of recreational opportunities and a strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jewell is part of the South Hamilton Community School District, with South Hamilton High School located in the town. The town’s key landmarks include Jewell City Park, which features picnic areas, playgrounds, and a community swimming pool. The Boone River runs nearby, offering opportunities for fishing and canoeing. Jewell’s downtown area includes several historic buildings, reflecting its rich past, and the town hosts an annual Jewell Jubilee, which features parades, games, and live entertainment. Jewell’s combination of small-town charm, outdoor recreation, and a strong school system makes it an appealing place for families.

Stratford

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.01 square miles
  • Population: 707 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50249
  • Latitude: 42.2694° N
  • Longitude: 93.9264° W

Location and History

Stratford is located in southwestern Hamilton County, near the Boone River and the Boone County line. The town was founded in 1880 and named after Stratford-upon-Avon in England, in honor of William Shakespeare. Stratford grew as a farming community, with its economy based on agriculture, particularly corn, soybeans, and livestock production. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred further development, allowing local farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Stratford remains a quiet, rural town with a strong agricultural tradition.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Stratford is part of the Stratford Community School District, which serves students through elementary school, with older students attending schools in nearby communities. Landmarks in Stratford include the Stratford City Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The Boone River provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Each year, the town hosts the Stratford Fall Festival, which includes parades, games, and local vendors. Stratford’s strong agricultural roots and community-centered way of life make it an ideal place for families seeking a rural lifestyle.

Kamrar

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.12 square miles
  • Population: 178 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50132
  • Latitude: 42.3422° N
  • Longitude: 93.7444° W

Location and History

Kamrar is a small town located in northern Hamilton County, about 10 miles northeast of Webster City. Founded in 1881, the town was named after Jacob Kamrar, a prominent attorney and businessman who played a key role in the early development of Hamilton County. Kamrar grew as a small agricultural community, with its economy focused on farming and livestock. Over the years, the town has retained its rural character, with agriculture continuing to be the backbone of the local economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kamrar is part of the Webster City Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Webster City. The town’s key landmark is Kamrar City Park, which offers a playground, picnic areas, and green spaces for local residents. Kamrar hosts small community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of connection among its residents. The surrounding farmland provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and birdwatching. Kamrar’s peaceful, rural setting and close-knit community make it a charming and quiet place to live in Hamilton County.

Stanhope

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 0.35 square miles
  • Population: 381 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 50246
  • Latitude: 42.2864° N
  • Longitude: 93.7944° W

Location and History

Stanhope is located in central Hamilton County, along U.S. Highway 17. The town was established in 1882 and named after Stanhope, England. Stanhope developed as a farming and rail community, with the arrival of the railroad spurring its growth in the late 19th century. Agriculture has always been the mainstay of the local economy, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the predominant products. Stanhope has maintained its small-town atmosphere and agricultural heritage while offering a welcoming community for residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Stanhope is part of the South Hamilton Community School District, with students attending South Hamilton High School in Jewell. The town’s key landmarks include Stanhope City Park, which features playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields. The Stanhope Locker and Market, a local business known for its quality meats, is a central part of the community. Each summer, Stanhope hosts its annual Watermelon Day festival, featuring parades, games, and local entertainment. The town’s rural charm, combined with its strong community ties, makes Stanhope a peaceful and appealing place to live.