Cities and Towns in Houston County, Minnesota
Founded in 1854, Houston County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Houston County was formed from Fillmore County. The city of Caledonia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 55, Houston County has a population of 18,778 and area of 558.41 square miles (1,446 km²).
List of all cities in Houston County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brownsville, MN | 55919 | 507 |
| Caledonia, MN | 55921 | 507 |
| Dresbach, MN | 55947 | 507 |
| Eitzen, MN | 55931 | 507 |
| Freeburg, MN | 55921 | 507 |
| Hokah, MN | 55941 | 507 |
| Houston, MN | 55943 | 507 |
| La Crescent, MN | 55947 | 507 |
| Reno, MN | 55919 | 507 |
| Spring Grove, MN | 55974 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Houston County, Minnesota
1. Caledonia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.7 square miles
- Population: 2,900 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 55921
- Latitude: 43.6242° N
- Longitude: 91.4674° W
City Location and History
Caledonia is the county seat of Houston County, located in the southeastern corner of Minnesota. Situated near the Mississippi River, it lies within a picturesque valley surrounded by rolling hills, making it a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts. The city’s history dates back to the 1850s when it was founded by European settlers. Named after Caledonia, the Latin word for Scotland, the city was established by Scottish immigrants who were drawn to the area’s natural beauty. Caledonia grew as a key agricultural hub due to its fertile soil and proximity to the river, which made it ideal for farming and trade.
Over the years, the town has evolved from a small farming settlement to a vibrant community. Its economy has diversified beyond agriculture to include light manufacturing, retail, and healthcare services. The historic architecture of the town, combined with its close-knit community atmosphere, makes it a welcoming place to live and visit. Caledonia has maintained its rural charm while benefiting from its proximity to the larger cities of La Crosse, Wisconsin and Rochester, Minnesota.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Caledonia is served by the Caledonia Public School District, which includes Caledonia High School, recognized for its strong academic and athletic programs. Major landmarks in the city include the Houston County Historical Society, which preserves the area’s rich cultural heritage, and the Root River Trail, which runs through Caledonia and offers recreational opportunities for biking, hiking, and sightseeing. Other notable spots include the Laliberte Park, a central park with a swimming pool and picnic areas, and the Bluff Country Trail for hiking and exploring the surrounding hills. Caledonia’s historic downtown, with its charming shops and cafes, also serves as a popular gathering spot. The Houston County Courthouse, located in the heart of Caledonia, is another significant historical landmark that reflects the city’s civic pride.
2. La Crescent
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.6 square miles
- Population: 5,200 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 55947
- Latitude: 43.8261° N
- Longitude: 91.2683° W
City Location and History
La Crescent, located on the western edge of Houston County, is a vibrant city situated along the Mississippi River, directly across from La Crosse, Wisconsin. Known as the “Apple Capital of Minnesota,” La Crescent has a long history tied to the fruit-growing industry, particularly apple orchards. The city’s first settlers arrived in the mid-19th century, drawn by the area’s fertile land and favorable climate for farming. La Crescent grew quickly as both an agricultural community and a transportation hub due to its proximity to the river, with riverboats and later railroads playing important roles in its development.
The city was officially incorporated in 1851, and by the early 1900s, La Crescent had established itself as a key supplier of apples, with numerous orchards dotting the landscape. Today, while the apple industry remains a significant part of the local economy, La Crescent is a diverse and thriving community with an economy that also includes retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. Its location along the river offers residents and visitors alike beautiful scenic views and recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
La Crescent is served by the La Crescent-Hokah School District, which includes La Crescent High School, known for its academic excellence and strong sports programs. One of the key landmarks in La Crescent is the La Crescent Apple Festival, a yearly event celebrating the city’s apple-growing heritage, featuring parades, food, and family activities. The Mississippi River Trail offers beautiful views and outdoor activities such as biking, hiking, and birdwatching. Veterans Memorial Park provides space for picnics, sports, and outdoor recreation, while the La Crescent Historical Society offers exhibits on the city’s past. The Blufflands surrounding La Crescent are popular for hiking and nature walks, offering spectacular views of the Mississippi River Valley. Additionally, Cedar Valley Golf Course and Lake Onalaska provide opportunities for golf and water-based activities.
3. Houston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 55943
- Latitude: 43.8043° N
- Longitude: 91.5906° W
City Location and History
Houston is a small city nestled in the Root River Valley in southern Houston County, located about 20 miles southeast of Lanesboro. The town was founded in the mid-1800s and named after Samuel Houston, a Texas revolutionary leader. Originally a farming community, Houston’s development was closely linked to agriculture, particularly with the settlement of German immigrants who cultivated crops in the fertile valley. The city also developed a strong local economy based on dairy farming, with a long history of supporting local agriculture.
Houston remained a quiet, rural community throughout the 20th century, with its economy primarily based on agriculture. In recent years, however, the city has expanded its tourism industry, leveraging its proximity to the scenic Root River Trail and nearby Bluff Country. Houston is known for its outdoor activities, including biking, hiking, and canoeing, as well as its quiet, small-town charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Houston is served by the Houston Public Schools District, which includes Houston High School, offering a comprehensive educational experience with a strong emphasis on academic and athletic achievement. One of the city’s most significant landmarks is the Root River, which provides ample opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and scenic views. The Root River Trail passes through the area, making it a popular spot for cyclists and nature enthusiasts. Another key point of interest is the Houston Nature Center, which provides information on the region’s local wildlife and offers educational programs for visitors. The Houston County Fairgrounds hosts annual events such as the county fair and community gatherings. Houston also celebrates its heritage with the Houston Historical Society, which maintains local archives and exhibits on the town’s history, including the impact of immigration and agriculture.
4. Spring Grove
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: 1,400 (approx. 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 55974
- Latitude: 43.5891° N
- Longitude: 91.5740° W
City Location and History
Spring Grove is located in the northeastern part of Houston County, nestled in the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, a region known for its steep valleys and unique terrain. The city was originally settled in the mid-1800s by German immigrants, many of whom were drawn to the area’s fertile land and proximity to the Root River. Spring Grove was incorporated in 1882 and developed as an agricultural community, with dairy farming and crops being its main economic drivers. The town’s name reflects its location near a spring-fed creek that flows through the area, providing fresh water for settlers.
Over the years, Spring Grove has maintained its rural character, with farming remaining an important part of the local economy. However, the town has also embraced tourism, with visitors drawn to its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and small-town charm. Spring Grove remains a tight-knit community with strong ties to its Scandinavian heritage and a commitment to preserving its history.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Spring Grove is served by the Spring Grove Public Schools District, which includes Spring Grove High School, known for its strong academic programs and emphasis on community involvement. The city’s landmarks include the Spring Grove Heritage Center, which preserves the town’s history through exhibits and programs about its German and Scandinavian roots. Beaver Creek Valley State Park, located nearby, offers hiking, birdwatching, and camping opportunities. The Root River Trail also runs through Spring Grove, providing biking and hiking paths that connect the town to other communities in the region. The city is also known for the Spring Grove Arts Festival, which showcases local artists, musicians, and performers.
