Cities and Towns in Hardin County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Hardin County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Hardin County was formed from Black Hawk County. The city of Eldora is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, Hardin County has a population of 16,708 and area of 569 square miles (1,474 km²).
List of all cities in Hardin County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ackley, IA | 50601 | 641 |
| Alden, IA | 50006 | 515 |
| Buckeye, IA | 50006 | 515 |
| 50043 | 515 | |
| Cleves, IA | 50601 | 641 |
| Eldora, IA | 50627 | 641 |
| Faulkner, IA | 50601 | 641 |
| Garden City, IA | 50102 | 515 |
| Gifford, IA | 50259 | 641 |
| Hubbard, IA | 50122 | 641 |
| Iowa Falls, IA | 50126 | 641 |
| Lawn Hill, IA | 50206 | 641 |
| Macy, IA | 50601 | 641 |
| New Providence, IA | 50206 | 641 |
| Owasa, IA | 50126 | 641 |
| Radcliffe, IA | 50230 | 515 |
| Robertson, IA | 50601 | 641 |
| Steamboat Rock, IA | 50672 | 641 |
| Union, IA | 50258 | 641 |
| 50259 | 641 | |
| Whitten, IA | 50269 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Hardin County, Iowa
Iowa Falls
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 5.07 square miles
- Population: 5,106 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50126
- Latitude: 42.5189° N
- Longitude: 93.2678° W
Location and History
Iowa Falls, the largest city in Hardin County, is located in the heart of Iowa along the Iowa River. Established in 1856, Iowa Falls quickly became known as the “Scenic City” due to its picturesque location along the river, which also provided an important source of water power for the early settlement’s mills and factories. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s fueled the town’s growth, making it a hub for transportation and trade in the region. Agriculture has long played a vital role in the local economy, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary products. Over time, Iowa Falls also developed a strong educational and cultural presence, with Ellsworth Community College being a major institution.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Iowa Falls is served by the Iowa Falls Community School District, with Iowa Falls-Alden High School being the primary secondary school. The town is also home to Ellsworth Community College, which provides higher education opportunities. Notable landmarks include the historic Metropolitan Opera House, built in 1899, and the Pat Clark Art Collection, which displays local art and history. The Iowa River provides numerous recreational opportunities, and the town’s Riverfront Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities. Each year, Iowa Falls hosts the Scenic City Empress Festival, featuring events and activities that celebrate the town’s unique charm.
Eldora
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.33 square miles
- Population: 2,663 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50627
- Latitude: 42.3600° N
- Longitude: 93.1019° W
Location and History
Eldora, the county seat of Hardin County, is located in central Iowa along the Iowa River. Founded in 1853, the town was named after a Spanish word meaning “the gilded” to reflect the hopes of early settlers for prosperity. Eldora developed as a farming and industrial center, with its economy driven by agriculture, particularly corn and soybeans, as well as small manufacturing industries. The town’s growth was further spurred by the arrival of the railroad, which connected it to larger markets in the region. Over the years, Eldora has remained a vital community within the county, serving as a hub for local government, commerce, and education.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eldora is served by the Eldora-New Providence Community School District, with South Hardin High School being the primary secondary school. One of the town’s most famous landmarks is Pine Lake State Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and camping. The Hardin County Courthouse, built in 1892, is a historic building located in the center of town. Eldora also hosts the annual Hardin County Fair, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and agricultural exhibits, celebrating the town’s rural heritage and community spirit.
Ackley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.37 square miles
- Population: 1,447 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50601
- Latitude: 42.5503° N
- Longitude: 93.0528° W
Location and History
Ackley is located in the northeastern part of Hardin County, near the county’s border with Franklin County. Founded in 1857, the town was named after brothers Isaac and Eli Ackley, who were early settlers in the area. Ackley grew as a farming community, with its economy focused on agriculture, particularly the production of corn, soybeans, and livestock. The town also developed as a small trade center, with local businesses catering to the needs of farmers and residents. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped Ackley grow, connecting it to regional markets.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ackley is part of the AGWSR (Ackley-Geneva-Wellsburg-Steamboat Rock) Community School District, with AGWSR High School serving local students. Notable landmarks in Ackley include Prairie Bridges Park, which offers scenic views, camping, and fishing opportunities along the Iowa River. The town also hosts the annual Ackley Sauerkraut Days, a celebration of the town’s German heritage featuring parades, food vendors, and live entertainment. Ackley’s small-town charm, combined with its strong agricultural heritage and community spirit, makes it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
Hubbard
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.90 square miles
- Population: 845 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50122
- Latitude: 42.3075° N
- Longitude: 93.2997° W
Location and History
Hubbard is a small town located in southern Hardin County, along U.S. Highway 65. The town was founded in 1881 and named after Judge Nathaniel Hubbard, a prominent local figure. Hubbard grew as a farming community, with its economy centered on agriculture and livestock production. The town’s location along the railroad played an important role in its early development, allowing local farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Agriculture remains a key part of the town’s identity, and Hubbard continues to thrive as a rural community with strong ties to farming.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hubbard is part of the South Hardin Community School District, with students attending South Hardin High School in Eldora. Notable landmarks in Hubbard include Hubbard Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and space for community events. The town also celebrates its agricultural roots with Hubbard Days, an annual festival featuring parades, games, and local vendors. The surrounding countryside provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and hunting, making Hubbard a peaceful and welcoming community for those who appreciate rural living.
Union
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 393 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50258
- Latitude: 42.2450° N
- Longitude: 93.0658° W
Location and History
Union is located in the southeastern part of Hardin County, near the South Fork of the Iowa River. Founded in 1867, the town was named to reflect the unity of the community during the post-Civil War period. Union developed as a small farming and trading community, with its economy primarily based on agriculture. The town’s proximity to the river and nearby transportation routes helped it grow in its early years. Though small, Union has remained a close-knit community with strong ties to its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Union is part of the BCLUW (Beaman-Conrad-Liscomb-Union-Whitten) Community School District, with students attending BCLUW High School in Conrad. Notable landmarks in Union include Union City Park, which provides recreational facilities for residents, including playgrounds and picnic areas. The town celebrates its heritage each year with Union Heritage Days, a festival that includes parades, games, and family-friendly activities. Union’s rural charm, combined with its strong sense of community, makes it an inviting place for those seeking a peaceful, small-town atmosphere.
Alden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.15 square miles
- Population: 754 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 50006
- Latitude: 42.5169° N
- Longitude: 93.3733° W
Location and History
Alden is located in central Hardin County, along the Iowa River and U.S. Highway 20. The town was established in 1855 and named after Alden Sears, an early settler who played a key role in the town’s founding. Alden grew as a farming and milling community, with the Iowa River providing water power for early industries. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped Alden expand, connecting it to regional markets and making it a key transportation hub for local farmers. Agriculture remains a significant part of the town’s economy today, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary products.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alden is part of the Iowa Falls-Alden Community School District, with students attending Iowa Falls-Alden High School in nearby Iowa Falls. Key landmarks in Alden include the Alden Public Library and the historic Alden Mill, which reflects the town’s early industrial heritage. The Iowa River provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor activities. Each year, the town hosts Alden Days, a community festival featuring parades, games, and local entertainment. Alden’s rich history, combined with its scenic location along the river, makes it a charming and welcoming town in Hardin County.