Cities and Towns in Humboldt County, California

Founded in 1853, Humboldt County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Humboldt County was formed from Trinity. The city of Eureka is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Humboldt County has a population of 136,310 and area of 3,573 square miles (9,254 km²).

List of all cities in Humboldt County, CA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Alderpoint, CA	95511	707
Arcata, CA	95518	707
	95521	707
Bayside, CA	95524	707
Blocksburg, CA	95514	707
Blue Lake, CA	95525	707
Bridgeville, CA	95526	707
Carlotta, CA	95528	707
Cutten, CA	95501	707
	95534	707
Eureka, CA	95501	707
	95502	707
	95503	707
	95534	707
Ferndale, CA	95536	707
Fields Landing, CA	95537	707
Fields Lodge, CA	95537	707
Fortuna, CA	95540	707
Garberville, CA	95542	707
Honeydew, CA	95545	707
Hoopa, CA	95546	530
Hoopa Valley Indian Reservat, CA	95546	530
Hydesville, CA	95547	707
Kneeland, CA	95549	707
Korbel, CA	95550	707
Loleta, CA	95551	707
Manila, CA	95521	707
McKinleyville, CA	95519	707
	95521	707
Miranda, CA	95553	707
Myers Flat, CA	95554	707
Orick, CA	95555	707
Orleans, CA	95556	530
Petrolia, CA	95558	707
Phillipsville, CA	95559	707
Redcrest, CA	95569	707
Redway, CA	95560	707
Resighini Rancheria, CA	95546	530
Rio Dell, CA	95562	707
Ruth, CA	95526	707
Samoa, CA	95564	707
Scotia, CA	95565	707
Shelter Cove, CA	95589	707
Trinidad, CA	95570	707
Weitchpec, CA	95546	530
Weott, CA	95571	707
Westhaven, CA	95570	707
Whitethorn, CA	95589	707
Willow Creek, CA	95573	530

Major Cities and Towns in Humboldt County, California

Eureka

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 14.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 26,512 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 95501, 95502, 95503
• Latitude: 40.8021° N
• Longitude: 124.1637° W

Location and History

Eureka is the county seat and largest city in Humboldt County, located on the northern California coast along Humboldt Bay. The city was founded in 1850 during the California Gold Rush and quickly developed as a port city, serving the booming lumber industry in the region. Eureka’s location along the Pacific Ocean and its proximity to vast redwood forests made it a key hub for shipping timber and other natural resources. The city’s name, meaning “I have found it” in Greek, reflects the excitement of the era. Eureka’s historic Old Town district features beautifully preserved Victorian-era buildings, reflecting its prosperous past. Today, Eureka is a vibrant coastal community with a rich cultural heritage, known for its arts scene and natural beauty.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Eureka is served by the Eureka City Schools district, with notable schools including Eureka High School and Zane Middle School. The city’s major landmarks include the Carson Mansion, one of the most photographed Victorian houses in the United States, and the Clarke Historical Museum, which showcases the region’s history, including its Native American heritage. The Sequoia Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in California, and the nearby Sequoia Park Forest & Garden, provide recreational opportunities in a beautiful redwood setting. Humboldt Bay, the largest bay between San Francisco and Coos Bay, Oregon, offers boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Eureka’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and scenic coastal beauty make it the cultural and economic center of Humboldt County.

Arcata

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 11.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 18,857 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 95521, 95518
• Latitude: 40.8665° N
• Longitude: 124.0828° W

Location and History

Arcata is a small city located north of Eureka, along the northern California coast. The city was founded in 1850 as a supply center for gold miners in the Trinity Alps and quickly became an important hub for the timber industry. Originally named Union Town, it was later renamed Arcata, derived from the Wiyot word for “where there is a lagoon.” Arcata is home to Humboldt State University, which has played a significant role in shaping the city’s identity as a center for education, environmentalism, and progressive politics. The city is known for its strong focus on sustainability and environmental conservation, with many initiatives aimed at reducing its ecological footprint.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Arcata is served by the Arcata School District and Northern Humboldt Union High School District, with Arcata High School and Sunny Brae Middle School being key educational institutions. Humboldt State University, now Cal Poly Humboldt, is a major landmark, offering a wide range of academic programs and contributing to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. The Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique natural reserve and wastewater treatment facility that attracts birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The Arcata Plaza, located in the heart of downtown, is a central gathering place for the community, hosting events such as the weekly farmers’ market and the annual Kinetic Sculpture Race. Arcata’s combination of educational institutions, environmental initiatives, and cultural activities make it a key city in Humboldt County.

Fortuna

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 5.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 12,516 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 95540
• Latitude: 40.5983° N
• Longitude: 124.1573° W

Location and History

Fortuna, known as “The Friendly City,” is located in the Eel River Valley, south of Eureka. The city was founded in 1874 as a logging and agricultural community, originally named “Slide” after a landslide that had occurred in the area. It was later renamed Fortuna, meaning “fortune” or “luck” in Latin, reflecting the optimism of its early settlers. Fortuna developed as a key center for the timber industry, with its location along the Eel River providing a natural transportation route for logs. Over time, the city diversified its economy to include agriculture, particularly dairy farming and fruit orchards. Today, Fortuna is a growing community known for its family-friendly atmosphere and close-knit community spirit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fortuna is served by the Fortuna Union High School District, with Fortuna High School and Toddy Thomas Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. The city’s major landmarks include the Rohner Park, which hosts the annual Fortuna Redwood AutoXpo, one of the largest car shows in the region, and the Fortuna Depot Museum, which preserves the history of the Eel River Valley. The nearby Headwaters Forest Reserve offers hiking trails and opportunities to explore the last remaining old-growth redwood forests in the region. Fortuna’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and community events make it a central part of Humboldt County.

Ferndale

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 1.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,371 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 95536
• Latitude: 40.5765° N
• Longitude: 124.2631° W

Location and History

Ferndale is a small, picturesque town located in the Eel River Valley, near the northern California coast. The town was founded in 1852 and developed as a center for dairy farming, with its fertile soil and temperate climate ideal for raising cattle. Ferndale quickly became known for its Victorian architecture, earning it the nickname “Cream City” for both its dairy industry and the rich cream-colored buildings that line its Main Street. The town’s well-preserved Victorian homes and storefronts make it a popular destination for tourists and a frequent location for film and television productions. Ferndale’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural surroundings have helped it maintain its small-town charm while attracting visitors from around the world.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ferndale is served by the Ferndale Unified School District, with Ferndale High School and Ferndale Elementary School providing education to local students. The town’s major landmarks include the Ferndale Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Eel River Valley, and the Ferndale Cemetery, known for its scenic views and historic gravestones. The nearby Lost Coast, one of the most rugged and remote stretches of the California coastline, offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring pristine natural landscapes. The annual Ferndale Victorian Holiday Celebration and the Humboldt County Fair are popular events that draw visitors to the town each year. Ferndale’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and cultural attractions make it a unique and important community in Humboldt County.

McKinleyville

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 21.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 15,177 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 95519
• Latitude: 40.9469° N
• Longitude: 124.1006° W

Location and History

McKinleyville is an unincorporated community located along the northern California coast, just north of Arcata. The town was originally known as Minorsville, named after an early settler who established a trading post in the area. It was later renamed McKinleyville in honor of President William McKinley. The community developed as an agricultural and logging town, with its location near the coast providing access to both timber and farmland. Over time, McKinleyville has grown into a suburban community, offering a mix of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and access to outdoor recreational activities. The town’s proximity to both the ocean and the redwoods makes it an attractive place to live and visit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

McKinleyville is served by the McKinleyville Union School District and the Northern Humboldt Union High School District, with McKinleyville High School and McKinleyville Middle School being the primary educational institutions. The town’s major landmarks include the Clam Beach County Park, which offers miles of sandy beaches, coastal dunes, and opportunities for clamming and beachcombing. The Hammond Trail, a scenic coastal trail, provides views of the Pacific Ocean and access to several parks and beaches. The Azalea State Natural Reserve, located on the outskirts of town, is known for its vibrant displays of native azaleas in the spring. McKinleyville’s combination of natural beauty, educational institutions, and recreational opportunities make it an important community in Humboldt County.

Rio Dell

Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates

• Area: 2.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 3,356 (as of 2020)
• Zip Codes: 95562
• Latitude: 40.4999° N
• Longitude: 124.1045° W

Location and History

Rio Dell is a small town located along the Eel River, south of Fortuna. The town was originally settled in the 19th century as a logging community, with its location along the river providing a natural transportation route for logs. Rio Dell developed as a mill town, with the lumber industry playing a central role in its economy. The town’s name, derived from the Spanish word for “river” and the English word “dell,” reflects its scenic location along the river. Over time, Rio Dell has evolved into a residential community, with many of its residents commuting to nearby towns for work. The town’s history and natural surroundings continue to shape its identity as a close-knit, rural community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rio Dell is served by the Rio Dell School District, with Eagle Prairie Elementary School being the primary educational institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Rio Dell-Scotia Bluffs, a scenic area known for its towering redwoods and views of the Eel River, and the Rio Dell Fireman’s Park, which hosts community events and offers recreational facilities. The nearby Scotia Museum, located in the neighboring town of Scotia, provides insights into the region’s logging history and the development of the local communities. Rio Dell’s combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and small-town charm make it a unique and important part of Humboldt County.

Map of Cities in Humboldt County, CA