Cities and Towns in Ionia County, Michigan

Founded in 1831, Ionia County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Ionia County was formed from part of Mackinac County and unorganized territory. The city of Ionia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 67, Ionia County has a population of 67,197 and area of 580 square miles (1,502 km²).

List of all cities in Ionia County, MI alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Belding, MI 48809 616
48887 616
Clarksville, MI 48815 616
Hubbardston, MI 48845 989
Ionia, MI 48846 616
Lake Odessa, MI 48849 616
Lyons, MI 48851 989
Muir, MI 48860 989
Orleans, MI 48865 616
Palo, MI 48870 989
Pewamo, MI 48873 989
Portland, MI 48875 517
Saranac, MI 48881 616
Smyrna, MI 48887 616

Major Cities and Towns in Ionia County, Michigan

1. Ionia

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 5.48 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 11,394 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 48846
  • Latitude: 42.9856° N
  • Longitude: 85.0719° W

Location and History

Ionia, the county seat of Ionia County, is located along the Grand River in central Michigan. The city was founded in 1833 by settlers from New York, who were drawn by the fertile farmland and the river’s access to transportation routes. Over the 19th century, Ionia grew as an agricultural hub and a center for milling, thanks to the water power provided by the Grand River. The city also became known for its architectural heritage, with many historic buildings still standing today. Ionia is perhaps best known for the Ionia Free Fair, one of Michigan’s largest and oldest fairs, which has been a staple of the community since the early 20th century.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ionia is served by Ionia Public Schools, with Ionia High School as the main educational institution. Key landmarks include the Ionia Theatre, a historic movie house built in 1931, which still operates as a venue for films and performances. Downtown Ionia features many well-preserved historic buildings, including the Ionia County Courthouse. Bertha Brock Park, located just outside the city, offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and a playground. The Ionia Free Fairgrounds host various events year-round, including the annual Ionia Free Fair, which draws visitors from across the state for its carnival rides, concerts, and agricultural exhibits.

2. Belding

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 5.39 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,757 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 48809
  • Latitude: 43.0981° N
  • Longitude: 85.2294° W

Location and History

Belding is located in the northeastern part of Ionia County, along the Flat River. The city was founded in the mid-19th century and grew rapidly due to the success of the silk industry, earning the nickname “Silk City.” The Belding Brothers & Company, established in the 1860s, became one of the largest silk manufacturers in the United States, and the city thrived economically during this period. Though the silk industry declined in the early 20th century, Belding remains a close-knit community with a strong connection to its industrial past and the surrounding rural landscape.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Belding is part of Belding Area Schools, with Belding High School serving local students. Significant landmarks include the Alvah N. Belding Memorial Library, a historic building donated by the Belding family in 1917, which remains an important community resource. Central Riverside Park, located along the Flat River, offers walking paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The Belding Museum at the Belrockton Dormitory showcases the city’s silk manufacturing history and its role in the early 20th century. Belding hosts the annual Belding Labor Day Celebration, which includes a parade, carnival, and fireworks, reflecting the city’s deep sense of community.

3. Portland

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 3.15 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,937 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 48875
  • Latitude: 42.8694° N
  • Longitude: 84.9039° W

Location and History

Portland is located in the southwestern part of Ionia County, along the Grand River. Founded in 1836, Portland developed as an agricultural community and a transportation hub, thanks to its location at the confluence of the Grand and Looking Glass Rivers. The city’s name was inspired by Portland, Maine, reflecting the hopes of its early settlers for economic prosperity. Portland retains much of its small-town charm while offering modern amenities, making it a desirable place to live for families and commuters who work in nearby Lansing or Grand Rapids.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Portland is served by Portland Public Schools, with Portland High School being the main educational facility. Major landmarks include Portland Riverwalk, a scenic trail system that winds along the Grand River and connects several city parks. Two Rivers Park and Bogue Flats Recreation Area are popular spots for outdoor activities, offering sports fields, walking trails, and river access. The Portland Historical Society Museum preserves the city’s rich history through exhibits and artifacts. Portland is also home to several historic churches, including St. Patrick Catholic Church, which has been a spiritual center for the community since the mid-1800s. The annual Portland Fall Festival brings residents together for family-friendly activities and celebrates the town’s heritage.

4. Lake Odessa

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 1.55 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,017 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 48849
  • Latitude: 42.7842° N
  • Longitude: 85.1378° W

Location and History

Lake Odessa is located in the southeastern part of Ionia County, near Jordan Lake. The village was founded in 1887 when the Chicago and West Michigan Railroad built a station near Jordan Lake, drawing settlers to the area. Lake Odessa’s name comes from combining “Lake,” in reference to Jordan Lake, and “Odessa,” after the nearby Odessa Township. The village developed as an agricultural center and remains a quiet rural community, with farming playing an essential role in the local economy. Today, Lake Odessa is known for its peaceful lakeside setting and close-knit community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lake Odessa is part of the Lakewood Public Schools district, with Lakewood High School serving the area. Jordan Lake is a key landmark, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and swimming. Village Park and Tamarack District Library are community hubs, providing spaces for recreation and learning. Lake Odessa Fairgrounds hosts the annual Lake Odessa Fair, featuring rides, livestock shows, and a demolition derby. The village also boasts the Depot Museum, which preserves the area’s railroad history, and the Lake Odessa Historical Society, which offers insights into the community’s agricultural roots.

5. Saranac

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 1.10 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,329 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 48881
  • Latitude: 42.9286° N
  • Longitude: 85.2119° W

Location and History

Saranac is located in the eastern part of Ionia County along the Grand River. The village was founded in the mid-19th century as a stop on the railroad line, which helped it grow as an agricultural and industrial community. Saranac’s location on the Grand River provided transportation routes for goods and resources, contributing to the village’s development. While the village remains small, Saranac has retained its historic charm and continues to be a hub for local farming communities. Its location near the river also makes it a destination for outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Saranac is served by Saranac Community Schools, with Saranac Junior/Senior High School being the main educational institution. Landmarks in the village include the Saranac Historical Depot, which showcases the village’s railroad heritage. Scheid Park provides playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports fields for residents and visitors. The Fred Meijer Grand River Valley Rail Trail passes through Saranac, offering scenic walking, biking, and snowmobiling paths along the Grand River. Saranac’s Fall Festival is a popular annual event that celebrates the village’s agricultural roots with a parade, local vendors, and family-friendly activities. The community is also known for its proximity to the Ionia State Recreation Area, offering camping, hiking, and fishing.