Cities and Towns in Iosco County, Michigan

Founded in 1840, Iosco County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Iosco County was formed from unorganized territory which was named Kanotin County until 1843. The city of Tawas City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 69, Iosco County has a population of 25,369 and area of 1,891 square miles (4,898 km²).

List of all cities in Iosco County, MI alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Au Sable, MI	48750	989
East Tawas, MI	48730	989
Hale, MI	48739	989
Long Lake, MI	48743	989
National City, MI	48748	989
Oscoda, MI	48750	989
Tawas City, MI	48763	989
	48764	989
Whittemore, MI	48770	989

Major Cities and Towns in Iosco County, Michigan

1. Tawas City

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 2.28 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,744 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 48763, 48764
• Latitude: 44.2661° N
• Longitude: 83.5144° W

Location and History

Tawas City is located on the western shore of Tawas Bay, part of Lake Huron, and serves as the county seat of Iosco County. Founded in the mid-19th century, Tawas City was originally a lumber town, benefiting from its proximity to both forests and waterways for transporting timber. Over time, the town became a regional center for commerce, government, and tourism. Today, Tawas City is known for its picturesque lakeside views and serves as a gateway to outdoor recreation along Lake Huron. Its economy is now largely based on tourism, fishing, and small local industries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tawas City is part of the Tawas Area Schools district, with Tawas Area High School serving the community. Notable landmarks include Gateway Park, which offers a scenic view of Tawas Bay, and Tawas Point State Park, located just outside the city, known for its sandy beaches and birdwatching opportunities. The historic Tawas Point Lighthouse, built in 1876, is a key attraction. The city also hosts annual events like the Tawas Bay Summerfest, which draws visitors for arts, crafts, and family activities. Downtown Tawas City features a number of local shops, restaurants, and marinas, making it a popular spot for both residents and tourists.

2. East Tawas

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 3.43 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,669 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 48730
• Latitude: 44.2811° N
• Longitude: 83.4908° W

Location and History

East Tawas, located just north of Tawas City, was established in 1854 as a lumbering center, similar to its sister city across Tawas Bay. The city quickly developed as a port town, with logs being floated down the bay and shipped to markets around the Great Lakes. With the decline of the lumber industry, East Tawas transitioned into a tourist destination, taking advantage of its prime location on Lake Huron. The city is known for its welcoming atmosphere, historic downtown, and waterfront attractions, drawing visitors year-round for boating, fishing, and recreational activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

East Tawas is also part of the Tawas Area Schools district, with students attending Tawas Area High School. Major landmarks include East Tawas City Park, which features a beach, playgrounds, and camping facilities. The Tawas Bay Lighthouse, shared with neighboring Tawas City, and Tawas Point State Park are prominent attractions offering beautiful views of Lake Huron. Downtown East Tawas is lined with historic buildings, quaint shops, and restaurants. The city’s Harbor Park is a popular spot for community events, including the annual Perchville USA, a winter festival featuring ice fishing, polar bear plunges, and other cold-weather activities.

3. Oscoda

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.68 square miles
• Population: Approximately 911 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48750
• Latitude: 44.4197° N
• Longitude: 83.3336° W

Location and History

Oscoda, situated along the Au Sable River and Lake Huron, is known as a historic gateway to Michigan’s wilderness. Established in the mid-19th century, Oscoda became a major center for the lumber industry, especially due to the rich forests surrounding the Au Sable River. The river served as a critical transportation route for timber, fueling Oscoda’s early growth. Today, Oscoda is known for its outdoor recreation, with opportunities for fishing, hiking, and camping in the nearby Huron National Forest. The town is also a popular summer destination, drawing visitors for its sandy beaches and access to Lake Huron.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oscoda is served by Oscoda Area Schools, with Oscoda High School as the main educational institution. Key landmarks include the Au Sable River, which offers excellent fishing, canoeing, and kayaking opportunities. Oscoda Beach Park is a popular destination, offering a sandy beach, playground, and picnic areas along Lake Huron’s shoreline. Oscoda-Wurtsmith Airport, a former Air Force base, is now a public airport and business park. The annual Paul Bunyan Days Festival celebrates the town’s logging history with parades, contests, and family activities. Huron National Forest and Lumberman’s Monument are nearby attractions that highlight the region’s natural beauty and historical significance.

4. Whittemore

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.09 square miles
• Population: Approximately 370 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 48770
• Latitude: 44.2319° N
• Longitude: 83.8053° W

Location and History

Whittemore is a small village located in the western part of Iosco County, about 20 miles inland from Lake Huron. Founded in the late 19th century, Whittemore developed as an agricultural and logging community, taking advantage of the vast forests and farmland in the region. The village has maintained its rural charm, with a close-knit community and a slow-paced lifestyle. Although it is one of the smaller towns in Iosco County, Whittemore has retained its significance as a local center for farming and small businesses.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Whittemore is served by Whittemore-Prescott Area Schools, with Whittemore-Prescott High School being the primary educational institution. The village’s key landmarks include Whittemore Speedway, a short-track racing venue that attracts motorsports enthusiasts from across the region. Elliott Park offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and open spaces for local gatherings and events. The annual Whittemore Community Days festival brings residents together with parades, live entertainment, and community activities. Whittemore is also a gateway to nearby Huron National Forest, where visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and wildlife observation in one of Michigan’s most scenic natural areas.

5. Hale

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

• Area: 1.05 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,473 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 48739
• Latitude: 44.3911° N
• Longitude: 83.8175° W

Location and History

Hale is located in the southwestern part of Iosco County, surrounded by lakes, forests, and rivers. Established in the late 19th century as a lumbering town, Hale has transitioned into a peaceful rural community that attracts visitors and residents alike for its outdoor recreation opportunities. The town is known for its proximity to a number of lakes, including Long Lake and Little Long Lake, which are popular for boating, fishing, and camping. Agriculture also plays a key role in the local economy, with many farms dotting the surrounding countryside.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hale is part of the Hale Area Schools district, with Hale High School serving the community’s students. Major landmarks include Long Lake, which offers a variety of water sports and recreational activities. Hale Lions Club Park provides sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for family outings. The Au Sable River, located nearby, offers excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. Hale is also known for its annual Hale Yes! Festival, which celebrates the town’s community spirit with a parade, live music, and local vendors. The surrounding forests and lakes make Hale a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.