Cities and Towns in Harlan County, Nebraska

Founded in 1871, Harlan County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Harlan County was formed from Kearney County. The city of Alma is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, Harlan County has a population of 3,091 and area of 553 square miles (1,432 km²).

List of all cities in Harlan County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alma, NE	68920	308
Holdrege, NE	68969	308
Huntley, NE	68971	308
Mullally, NE	68971	308
Orleans, NE	68966	308
Prairie Dog, NE	68920	308
Precept, NE	68977	308
Ragan, NE	68969	308
Repub City, NE	68971	308
Republican City, NE	68971	308
Sappa, NE	68977	308
Scandinavia, NE	68969	308
Stamford, NE	68977	308

Major Cities and Towns in Harlan County, Nebraska

Alma

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 1.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,100 (2023)
• Zip Codes: 68920
• Latitude: 40.5764° N
• Longitude: 99.3440° W

Location and History

Alma is the county seat of Harlan County, located in the south-central part of Nebraska. The town was established in 1871 and was originally named “Burlington,” after the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. It was later renamed Alma, which means “soul” in Spanish, reflecting the community’s spirit and determination. Alma grew rapidly as the railroad expanded through the region, bringing settlers and economic opportunities to the area. As a central point for shipping agricultural products, particularly grain and livestock, Alma became a vital hub for surrounding farming communities. Over the years, Alma’s economy has remained tied to agriculture, with corn, wheat, and cattle as the primary products. Despite its small size, Alma has consistently maintained its role as an important town in Harlan County, benefiting from its location along the Republican River and its proximity to larger cities like Kearney and Hastings. Today, Alma remains a center for agriculture, offering a quiet, rural lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Alma is served by the Alma Public Schools district, which includes Alma High School and Alma Elementary School. The school district is well-regarded for its focus on academic achievement and extracurricular programs, including sports and music. Major landmarks in Alma include the Harlan County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government, and the Harlan County Reservoir, a popular destination for outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping. The town’s downtown area features a mix of locally owned businesses, including cafes, shops, and service providers, giving Alma a small-town charm. The Harlan County Historical Museum, located near the courthouse, showcases the history of the county and offers insight into Alma’s development and agricultural heritage. Alma also hosts various annual events, including the Harlan County Fair, which features a rodeo, carnival, and livestock shows. The surrounding natural beauty, including parks, trails, and wildlife viewing areas, makes Alma an attractive place for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed rural lifestyle.

Republican City

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 1.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 350 (2023)
• Zip Codes: 68971
• Latitude: 40.5075° N
• Longitude: 99.4706° W

Location and History

Republican City is a small village located in the southeastern corner of Harlan County, Nebraska, near the Republican River, which significantly influenced the town’s development. The town was founded in the 1870s, during the westward expansion period, and was named after the Republican River. Early settlers came to the area for farming opportunities, particularly along the river, which provided water and fertile land for agriculture. Like many towns in Nebraska, Republican City grew alongside the development of the railroad, which facilitated the transport of crops and livestock to other parts of the state. Over time, the village’s economy shifted from being primarily agricultural to include tourism, due to its proximity to Harlan County Reservoir. This change brought new economic opportunities, as the area became known for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating, and camping. Despite its small population, Republican City plays an important role in Harlan County, providing a peaceful rural lifestyle while offering access to natural resources and outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Republican City is part of the Alma Public Schools district, with children attending Alma High School and Alma Elementary School. The small school district offers a variety of programs, including athletics and music, with a focus on community involvement. The primary landmark in Republican City is the Harlan County Reservoir, a large lake that offers fishing, boating, and camping opportunities. The reservoir attracts both locals and visitors from surrounding areas, making it one of the area’s major recreational hubs. Republican City also has several small businesses, including restaurants and convenience stores, that serve both the local population and tourists visiting the reservoir. The town is home to several parks, including a local community park that features picnic areas and sports fields. Republican City hosts the annual Harlan County Fishing Tournament, an event that draws anglers from across the state to compete in the reservoir’s waters. The peaceful atmosphere and outdoor recreational opportunities make Republican City a desirable destination for those looking for a quiet lifestyle or a weekend getaway in a rural setting.

Orleans

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 1.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 300 (2023)
• Zip Codes: 68966
• Latitude: 40.2907° N
• Longitude: 99.4324° W

Location and History

Orleans is a small village located in the southwestern part of Harlan County, Nebraska. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after Orleans, France, reflecting the European heritage of some of its early settlers. The village grew slowly over the years, with early industries centered on agriculture, particularly grain and livestock production. Orleans was initially a stop along the railroad, which helped facilitate the movement of goods from the surrounding farming communities. Over the years, the village has seen modest population growth and development. Orleans’ economy remains primarily based on agriculture, with corn and cattle being the main products. The village is located near the Republican River, and its fertile land continues to support farming operations in the area. Orleans retains its small-town charm, with a close-knit community and a focus on rural living. While the village has not experienced significant growth, it continues to serve as an important part of Harlan County’s agricultural landscape.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Orleans is served by the Alma Public Schools district, with children attending Alma High School and Alma Elementary School, as it is part of the larger Alma school system. Orleans has a small but tight-knit local community, with a few local businesses that provide essential services. Major landmarks in Orleans include the local community park, which offers a playground, sports fields, and picnic areas for residents and visitors. The village is also located near the Republican River, providing opportunities for fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Orleans hosts several community events throughout the year, including the Orleans Summer Festival, which features a parade, local food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Orleans remains a quiet village, offering a rural lifestyle with access to outdoor recreational opportunities. Its location near the river and the surrounding farmland provides a picturesque setting for residents who enjoy the peace and solitude of rural life, while still being within reach of larger towns and cities for additional amenities and services.