Cities and Towns in Howard County, Iowa

Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Howard County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Howard County was formed from Chickasaw County. The city of Cresco is the county seat. With FIPS code of 89, Howard County has a population of 9,478 and area of 473 square miles (1,225 km²).

List of all cities in Howard County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Bonair, IA	52155	563
Chester, IA	52134	563
Cresco, IA	52136	563
Elma, IA	50628	641
Florenceville, IA	52136	563
Kendallville, IA	52136	563
Lime Springs, IA	52155	563
Lourdes, IA	50628	641
Protivin, IA	52163	563
Riceville, IA	50466	641
Saratoga, IA	52155	563
Schley, IA	52136	563
Vernon Springs, IA	52136	563

Major Cities and Towns in Howard County, Iowa

Cresco

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 3.35 square miles
• Population: 3,888 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 52136
• Latitude: 43.3747° N
• Longitude: 92.1150° W

Location and History

Cresco, the county seat of Howard County, is located in northeastern Iowa, near the border with Minnesota. The town was established in 1866 as the railroad expanded through the area, playing a key role in its growth as a transportation hub. Cresco’s name, derived from the Latin word “to grow,” reflects the town’s aspirations for development. Agriculture quickly became the backbone of Cresco’s economy, with the town serving as a trade center for the surrounding farming communities. Over time, Cresco developed into a regional center for education, healthcare, and commerce, while still maintaining its agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cresco is served by the Howard-Winneshiek Community School District, with Crestwood High School being the primary educational institution. The town is home to several notable landmarks, including the Howard County Courthouse, which dates back to 1882 and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The nearby Prairie’s Edge Nature Center and Vernon Springs Park offer outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking and fishing. Cresco is also known for the annual Mighty Howard County Fair, which showcases the town’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, carnival rides, and entertainment. Cresco’s blend of small-town charm and modern amenities makes it a vibrant community.

Riceville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 1.13 square miles
• Population: 786 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 50466
• Latitude: 43.3633° N
• Longitude: 92.5547° W

Location and History

Riceville is located in western Howard County, straddling the border with Mitchell County. Founded in the mid-19th century, the town was named after T.M. Rice, an early settler who played a significant role in its establishment. Riceville developed as a small agricultural community, with its economy focused on farming and local trade. The town grew steadily with the arrival of the railroad, which provided a means for local farmers to transport their crops and livestock to larger markets. Agriculture remains a central part of Riceville’s economy, with corn and soybeans as the dominant crops.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Riceville is served by the Riceville Community School District, with Riceville High School being the primary educational institution. Key landmarks in the town include the Wapsipinicon Mill, a historic structure that reflects the town’s early milling industry. The nearby Wapsi-Great Western Line Trail, a multi-use recreational trail, provides opportunities for biking, hiking, and enjoying the scenic countryside. Each year, the town hosts Riceville Days, a community festival featuring parades, games, and local entertainment. Riceville’s strong agricultural heritage, combined with its peaceful rural setting, makes it a welcoming community for families and visitors alike.

Elma

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 0.64 square miles
• Population: 505 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 50628
• Latitude: 43.2458° N
• Longitude: 92.4394° W

Location and History

Elma is located in southeastern Howard County, near the border with Chickasaw County. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was named after Elma Scott, the daughter of a local businessman. Like many towns in the region, Elma grew as a farming community, with its economy based on agriculture and livestock production. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s further boosted the town’s growth, making it a key trading post for the surrounding rural areas. Today, Elma retains its small-town charm while continuing to serve as a hub for local farmers and businesses.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Elma is part of the Howard-Winneshiek Community School District, with students attending Crestwood schools in nearby Cresco. Notable landmarks in Elma include the Elma Depot Museum, which showcases the town’s railroad history and agricultural heritage. The Elma Trailhead Park provides access to the Wapsi-Great Western Line Trail, offering recreational opportunities such as walking, biking, and snowmobiling in the winter. The town hosts the annual Elma Days celebration, featuring parades, games, and live entertainment. Elma’s rich history and strong sense of community make it an attractive place for residents and visitors alike.

Lime Springs

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 1.05 square miles
• Population: 472 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 52155
• Latitude: 43.4475° N
• Longitude: 92.2856° W

Location and History

Lime Springs is located in northern Howard County, near the Upper Iowa River and close to the Minnesota border. The town was established in 1857 and named after the lime deposits found in the nearby springs. The town’s early economy was driven by limestone quarrying and farming, with the fertile land surrounding Lime Springs supporting corn and soybean production. The town’s proximity to the river also contributed to its development as a local trading center. Over the years, Lime Springs has maintained its rural character while offering residents a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lime Springs is part of the Howard-Winneshiek Community School District, with students attending schools in Cresco. Notable landmarks include Lidtke Mill, a historic water-powered mill that dates back to the late 1800s and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Upper Iowa River provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and hiking along its scenic banks. Lime Springs hosts an annual Sweet Corn Days festival, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, games, and family activities. The town’s blend of history, outdoor recreation, and community spirit makes it a hidden gem in Howard County.

Protivin

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

• Area: 0.44 square miles
• Population: 269 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 52163
• Latitude: 43.2153° N
• Longitude: 92.0828° W

Location and History

Protivin is a small town located in southeastern Howard County, near the Chickasaw County border. Founded in the 1870s by Czech immigrants, Protivin was named after the town of Protivín in the Czech Republic. The town developed as an agricultural community, with its economy centered on farming and livestock. Czech culture remains an important part of Protivin’s identity, and the town has preserved many of its traditions and customs over the years. Agriculture continues to be the foundation of the town’s economy, with corn, soybeans, and dairy farming playing key roles.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Protivin is part of the Turkey Valley Community School District, with students attending Turkey Valley High School in nearby Jackson Junction. The town’s most prominent landmark is Holy Trinity Catholic Church, a beautiful historic church that reflects the strong Czech Catholic heritage of the community. Protivin also celebrates its heritage with the annual Czech Days festival, featuring traditional Czech food, music, and dancing. The town’s peaceful rural setting and strong cultural traditions make it a unique and welcoming community in Howard County.