Cities and Towns in Houghton County, Michigan
Founded in 1845, Houghton County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Houghton County was formed from parts of Marquette County and Ontonagon County. The city of Houghton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 61, Houghton County has a population of 37,313 and area of 1,502 square miles (3,890 km²).
List of all cities in Houghton County, MI alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Atlantic Mine, MI | 49905 | 906 |
Calumet, MI | 49913 | 906 |
49942 | 906 | |
Centennial Heights, MI | 49913 | 906 |
Chassell, MI | 49916 | 906 |
Copper City, MI | 49917 | 906 |
Dodgeville, MI | 49921 | 906 |
Dollar Bay, MI | 49922 | 906 |
Gay, MI | 49945 | 906 |
Hancock, MI | 49930 | 906 |
Houghton, MI | 49921 | 906 |
49931 | 906 | |
Hubbell, MI | 49934 | 906 |
Kearsarge, MI | 49942 | 906 |
Lake Linden, MI | 49945 | 906 |
Laurium, MI | 49913 | 906 |
Nisula, MI | 49952 | 906 |
Painesdale, MI | 49955 | 906 |
Pelkie, MI | 49958 | 906 |
Ripley, MI | 49930 | 906 |
Sidnaw, MI | 49961 | 906 |
South Range, MI | 49963 | 906 |
Toivola, MI | 49965 | 906 |
Major Cities and Towns in Houghton County, Michigan
1. Houghton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 4.80 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,817 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49931
- Latitude: 47.1211° N
- Longitude: 88.5694° W
Location and History
Houghton, located on the Keweenaw Peninsula along the shores of Portage Lake, is the county seat of Houghton County and the largest city in the area. Founded in the mid-19th century during the copper mining boom, Houghton played a crucial role in the development of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as a center for copper extraction and shipping. The city’s growth was fueled by the demand for copper during the Industrial Revolution, and it quickly became the hub for the mining industry in the region. Although the mines have long since closed, Houghton remains a vibrant community, now known for its connection to Michigan Technological University (MTU), which has driven innovation and research in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Houghton is served by Houghton-Portage Township Schools, with Houghton High School being the primary educational institution. Michigan Technological University, located in Houghton, is a major landmark and plays a significant role in the city’s economy and culture. The Keweenaw Waterway, which cuts through the Keweenaw Peninsula, offers boating and scenic views. The Portage Lake Lift Bridge connects Houghton to Hancock and is a vital piece of infrastructure in the region. The A. E. Seaman Mineral Museum, located at MTU, is renowned for its collection of minerals, particularly from the local copper mines. Each winter, Houghton hosts the Winter Carnival, a popular event featuring elaborate snow sculptures, winter sports, and community activities.
2. Hancock
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.97 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,501 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49930
- Latitude: 47.1266° N
- Longitude: 88.5806° W
Location and History
Hancock, located just north of Houghton across the Portage Lake Lift Bridge, was also founded during the mid-19th-century copper mining boom. Named after John Hancock, the city was established as a center for Finnish immigrants who came to work in the mines. The influx of Finnish settlers has left a lasting cultural influence, with Hancock being known for its strong Finnish heritage. The decline of the copper industry in the 20th century led to economic shifts, but the city continues to thrive due to its cultural ties, proximity to Michigan Tech, and focus on outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hancock is served by Hancock Public Schools, with Hancock High School providing education to local students. Notable landmarks include Finlandia University, a private institution that reflects the city’s Finnish roots. Quincy Mine, located just outside the city, offers tours and insights into the region’s mining history. Porvoo Park and the Hancock Canal offer scenic spots for picnicking, boating, and walking. Mont Ripley Ski Area, located on the outskirts of the city, provides skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter. Heikinpäivä, a Finnish winter festival, celebrates Hancock’s Finnish heritage with traditional music, food, and games.
3. Calumet
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.91 square miles
- Population: Approximately 621 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49913
- Latitude: 47.2472° N
- Longitude: 88.4531° W
Location and History
Calumet, located in the northern part of Houghton County, was once the epicenter of Michigan’s copper mining industry. Founded in 1864, Calumet rapidly developed during the late 19th and early 20th centuries due to the rich copper deposits in the area. The town was home to the Calumet & Hecla Mining Company, one of the most profitable copper mines in the world. Calumet’s population peaked during the copper boom, but after the decline of the industry in the 20th century, the town’s population dwindled. Despite this, Calumet remains a historically significant town, with many preserved buildings from the mining era.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Calumet is part of the Public Schools of Calumet, Laurium & Keweenaw (CLK) district, with Calumet High School serving local students. The Keweenaw National Historical Park is a major landmark in the city, preserving many of Calumet’s historic mining buildings, including the Calumet Theatre, which still hosts performances and events today. Coppertown USA Mining Museum offers a deep dive into the region’s mining heritage. Agassiz Park provides green space for recreation, and Swedetown Trails nearby offers year-round outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing. The annual Pasty Fest celebrates the region’s mining heritage and the pasty, a traditional miner’s meal.
4. Laurium
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.90 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,883 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49913
- Latitude: 47.2375° N
- Longitude: 88.4422° W
Location and History
Laurium, located adjacent to Calumet, was founded in 1889 and originally named “Calumet” before being renamed after the mining town of Laurium in Greece. The town was built as a residential area for the executives and wealthy families of the Calumet & Hecla Mining Company, with large, elegant homes lining its streets. Laurium grew alongside Calumet during the height of the copper boom, but, like its neighbor, experienced economic decline after the mining industry collapsed. Today, Laurium is known for its historic architecture and close ties to the surrounding copper country.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Laurium is also part of the Public Schools of Calumet, Laurium & Keweenaw (CLK) district. The village’s main landmark is the Laurium Manor Inn, a historic mansion that offers tours and lodging, showcasing the opulent lifestyles of the mining elite during the copper boom. Daniell Park provides a peaceful spot for picnicking and summer concerts. The George Gipp Memorial, dedicated to the famous football player who was born in Laurium, is a notable historical site. The Laurium Historic District is filled with well-preserved homes and buildings from the early 20th century, offering a glimpse into the town’s prosperous past.
5. South Range
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 0.66 square miles
- Population: Approximately 719 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 49963
- Latitude: 47.0703° N
- Longitude: 88.6422° W
Location and History
South Range, located just south of Houghton, was founded in 1902 as a company town for the copper mining operations of the Trimountain Mining Company. The town was named after its position on the southern range of the copper-bearing hills. South Range grew rapidly as mining operations expanded, providing housing and services for miners and their families. Like many towns in the region, South Range faced economic challenges after the decline of copper mining in the mid-20th century. However, the town has remained a small but active community with a focus on outdoor recreation and local culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
South Range is served by the Adams Township School District, with students attending Jeffers High School. Notable landmarks include the Adams Township Memorial Park, which offers sports fields, playgrounds, and a pavilion for community events. South Range Eagles Club serves as a social hub for residents, hosting various local events. Paavola Wetlands, located nearby, offers hiking and birdwatching opportunities in a natural wetland environment. The town hosts the annual South Range Fourth of July Celebration, which features a parade, fireworks, and a variety of family-friendly activities, showcasing the town’s strong sense of community.