Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Nebraska
Founded in 1856, Jefferson County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Jefferson County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Fairbury is the county seat. With FIPS code of 95, Jefferson County has a population of 7,176 and area of 573 square miles (1,484 km²).
List of all cities in Jefferson County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Daykin, NE | 68338 | 402 |
| Diller, NE | 68342 | 402 |
| Endicott, NE | 68350 | 402 |
| Fairbury, NE | 68352 | 402 |
| Gladstone, NE | 68352 | 402 |
| Harbine, NE | 68377 | 402 |
| Jansen, NE | 68377 | 402 |
| Powell, NE | 68352 | 402 |
| Thompson, NE | 68352 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Nebraska
Fairbury, Nebraska
Location and History
Fairbury is the county seat of Jefferson County, located in the southeastern part of Nebraska. The city was founded in 1857 and named after the nearby Fairbury Creek. Fairbury was established as a small agricultural community, benefiting from its proximity to the Kansas-Nebraska Act and its location along major transportation routes. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century played a crucial role in the city’s growth, and it quickly became a center for commerce and trade in the region. Fairbury also grew as a key point for grain and livestock shipping, which remained important to its economy well into the 20th century. Throughout the years, Fairbury has been a vital agricultural hub, with many local businesses and industries tied to farming, particularly in the areas of grain production and livestock. Today, Fairbury continues to thrive as a small town with a strong sense of history and community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fairbury is served by the Fairbury Public Schools district, which includes Fairbury High School. The school offers various academic and extracurricular programs, including athletics, arts, and vocational education. Notable landmarks in Fairbury include the Jefferson County Courthouse, a historic building dating back to 1892, and the Fairbury City Park, which hosts events, picnics, and recreational activities. The city also features the Fairbury Community Building, which provides a venue for local events and gatherings. Additionally, the nearby Rock Creek Station State Historical Park commemorates the historic Overland Trail, where travelers passed through in the mid-19th century. The city’s proximity to the Big Blue River offers outdoor opportunities like fishing and boating. Fairbury’s rich history, combined with its beautiful parks and recreational facilities, makes it an attractive and vibrant community for residents and visitors.
- Area: 1.42 sq mi
- Population: 3,717 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 68352
- Latitude: 40.1101° N
- Longitude: 97.1783° W
Steele City, Nebraska
Location and History
Steele City is a small village located in the southern part of Jefferson County, Nebraska, near the Kansas border. The town was established in 1880 and named after Steele, a railroad engineer, who played a significant role in the town’s founding. Like many small Nebraska communities, Steele City grew up around the railroad, with the construction of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad line providing vital transportation for both people and goods. Steele City was primarily an agricultural community, with a focus on farming, especially wheat, corn, and livestock. Over time, the town saw its population stabilize and remain relatively small, as it never grew into a large commercial or industrial center. Despite its size, Steele City has retained a tight-knit community and remains a quiet, rural place to live. Agriculture continues to play an important role in the local economy, and many residents are involved in farming and ranching.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Because Steele City is a small village, it does not have its own school system. Students attend schools in nearby Fairbury or other towns in Jefferson County. The village is surrounded by scenic farmland and offers a rural lifestyle that appeals to those seeking a quiet place to live. Though it lacks large commercial landmarks, Steele City has a number of small, locally-owned businesses that serve the needs of the community. Its agricultural roots and rural charm make it a distinctive part of Jefferson County. The village is near several parks and outdoor spaces, where residents can enjoy activities like hiking, hunting, and fishing. While the town may not offer large-scale attractions, it offers a peaceful rural setting where agricultural traditions are still alive and well.
- Area: 0.37 sq mi
- Population: 25 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 68365
- Latitude: 40.0666° N
- Longitude: 97.2996° W
Jansen, Nebraska
Location and History
Jansen is a small village located in the eastern part of Jefferson County, Nebraska, along U.S. Highway 136. The village was founded in the late 19th century and named after an early settler, William Jansen. Jansen grew as an agricultural community, benefiting from its fertile land and location along key transportation routes. Much like other small towns in Nebraska, the village was initially centered around farming, with a particular emphasis on corn, wheat, and livestock. The town has maintained its rural character and is known for its welcoming atmosphere and strong ties to farming. Although its population has remained relatively stable, Jansen’s agricultural industry and proximity to larger towns in the region have helped sustain its small-town economy. Today, Jansen continues to serve as a quiet, rural community with an emphasis on agriculture and community ties.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jansen is served by the Meridian Public Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby towns like Daykin or Beatrice. As a small village, Jansen does not have major commercial landmarks but is surrounded by picturesque farmland. The town is also home to a number of historic buildings that reflect its agricultural past. The Jansen Community Hall is a focal point for local gatherings, and the nearby Thompson Creek provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing and hiking. The rural landscape around Jansen offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, and the community is well known for its agricultural fairs and local events. The village remains a serene and close-knit place to live, surrounded by the natural beauty of the Nebraska countryside.
- Area: 0.40 sq mi
- Population: 250 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 68377
- Latitude: 40.3074° N
- Longitude: 97.0707° W
Endicott, Nebraska
Location and History
Endicott is a small village located in the southeastern part of Jefferson County, Nebraska. The town was founded in 1872 and named after Endicott, Massachusetts. Like many towns in Nebraska, Endicott grew as an agricultural community with a focus on wheat, corn, and livestock farming. The town also became a stop along the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad, which helped boost its population and economy in its early years. Although the arrival of the railroad was crucial to Endicott’s growth, the town’s population has remained small over the years, and it has retained much of its rural character. Endicott continues to be a quiet village, with a strong agricultural foundation and a close-knit community that is still active in local events and activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Endicott is part of the Meridian Public Schools district, and students attend school in nearby towns such as Daykin and Beatrice. The village itself has limited commercial attractions but is surrounded by scenic farmland and natural beauty. The village is home to the Endicott Community Hall, where local events, meetings, and gatherings are held. The nearby Big Blue River provides recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. While Endicott may not have large-scale landmarks, it offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle that appeals to those who appreciate Nebraska’s agricultural heritage and enjoy a slower pace of life.
- Area: 0.23 sq mi
- Population: 70 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 68350
- Latitude: 40.1583° N
- Longitude: 97.0555° W
Plymouth, Nebraska
Location and History
Plymouth is a small village located in the southwestern part of Jefferson County, Nebraska, near the border with Saline County. The town was founded in 1864 and was originally established as a farming community. Plymouth was named after Plymouth, Massachusetts, reflecting the town’s New England-style roots. In its early years, Plymouth was a hub for agriculture, with farmers growing corn, wheat, and raising livestock. The village saw modest growth, particularly in the late 19th century, as the railroad expanded into the area. Although the population of Plymouth has remained small over the years, the village continues to celebrate its rural heritage and serves as a quiet retreat for those who prefer a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Plymouth is part of the Fillmore Central Schools district, and students attend school in nearby towns such as Geneva or Fillmore. The village itself has few large-scale landmarks but is known for its historic buildings and small-town charm. The Plymouth Community Park is a popular gathering spot for local events and outdoor activities. The village’s proximity to the Big Blue River offers additional recreational opportunities for residents, including fishing and wildlife observation. Plymouth also hosts several community events throughout the year, including agricultural fairs and local gatherings, making it a vibrant community despite its small size.
- Area: 0.45 sq mi
- Population: 160 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 68424
- Latitude: 40.3840° N
- Longitude: 97.2205° W
