Cities and Towns in Kenosha County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1850, Kenosha County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Kenosha County was formed from Racine County. The city of Kenosha is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Kenosha County has a population of 168,732 and area of 271.99 square miles (704 km²).
List of all cities in Kenosha County, WI alphabetically
- Bassett, WI
- Benet Lake, WI
- Bristol, WI
- Camp Lake, WI
- Kenosha, WI
- New Munster, WI
- Pleasant Prairie, WI
- Powers Lake, WI
- Salem, WI
- Silver Lake, WI
- Somers, WI
- Trevor, WI
- Twin Lakes, WI
- Wilmot, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Kenosha County, Wisconsin
Kenosha
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 27.03 square miles
- Population: 100,016 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 53140, 53142, 53143, 53144
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 42.5847° N
- Longitude: 87.8212° W
Location and History
Kenosha is the county seat of Kenosha County, located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan. Founded in 1835 as Southport, the city was renamed Kenosha in 1850, a Native American word meaning “place of the pike.” Kenosha quickly developed into a thriving port city due to its strategic location along Lake Michigan, becoming a hub for manufacturing and trade. The city’s economy was historically driven by the automotive industry, with companies like American Motors Corporation playing a significant role in its development. Over time, Kenosha evolved into a vibrant urban center with a diverse economy, including education, healthcare, and retail sectors. Today, Kenosha is known for its rich cultural heritage, scenic lakefront, and historic downtown district.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kenosha is served by the Kenosha Unified School District, which includes several high schools, middle schools, and elementary schools, including Indian Trail High School and Academy and Tremper High School. Notable landmarks in the city include the Kenosha Public Museum, which showcases local history and art, and the Civil War Museum, dedicated to the impact of the Civil War on the Midwest. The city’s lakefront features the Kenosha HarborPark, a popular destination with parks, promenades, and public art. Another key landmark is the Southport Lighthouse, a historic beacon that offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
Pleasant Prairie
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 33.64 square miles
- Population: 21,250 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 53158
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 42.5539° N
- Longitude: 87.8646° W
Location and History
Pleasant Prairie is a village in Kenosha County, located just south of Kenosha along the Illinois-Wisconsin border. The village was originally settled in the early 19th century and was primarily an agricultural community. Pleasant Prairie grew steadily, maintaining its rural character while gradually developing into a suburban area. The village’s strategic location along major transportation routes, including Interstate 94, has made it an attractive location for residential development and commercial enterprises. Over the years, Pleasant Prairie has become a key economic hub in the region, with the development of the Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets and the Prairie Springs Park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pleasant Prairie is part of the Kenosha Unified School District, with students attending schools in nearby Kenosha, including Indian Trail High School and Academy. Notable landmarks in Pleasant Prairie include the RecPlex, the largest municipally owned recreation facility in the United States, offering a wide range of sports and fitness activities. The village is also home to the Chiwaukee Prairie, a significant nature preserve that protects one of the last remaining prairie ecosystems in the state. Another key attraction is the Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets, a major shopping destination that draws visitors from across the region.
Twin Lakes
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 9.84 square miles
- Population: 6,051 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 53181
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 42.5242° N
- Longitude: 88.2468° W
Location and History
Twin Lakes is a village in Kenosha County, situated near the border with Illinois. The village is named after the two adjacent lakes, Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth, which are central to the community’s identity. Twin Lakes was established as a resort community in the late 19th century, attracting visitors from Chicago and other nearby cities seeking a retreat in nature. The village grew as a popular destination for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities, with many summer homes and resorts being built around the lakes. Today, Twin Lakes remains a vibrant community, known for its scenic beauty and recreational opportunities, making it a popular place to live and visit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Twin Lakes is part of the Randall Consolidated School District and Wilmot Union High School District, serving the educational needs of the area. Key landmarks in the village include Lance Park, which hosts the annual Aquanuts Water Ski Shows, a popular summer attraction. The lakes themselves are the primary landmarks, offering a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and swimming. Another significant site is the Twin Lakes Country Club, which provides a picturesque setting for golf and social events, contributing to the village’s appeal as a recreational and residential community.
Salem Lakes
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 32.38 square miles
- Population: 14,973 (as of the last census)
- ZIP Codes: 53168, 53170, 53171
- Latitude and Longitude:
- Latitude: 42.5736° N
- Longitude: 88.1274° W
Location and History
Salem Lakes is a village in Kenosha County, formed in 2017 through the consolidation of several smaller communities, including Salem, Silver Lake, and Trevor. The village is located in the western part of the county, known for its numerous lakes and natural beauty. Historically, the area was settled in the 19th century, with agriculture being the primary industry. Over time, Salem Lakes developed into a popular residential and recreational area, attracting residents and visitors with its scenic lakes and parks. The village’s formation was driven by a desire to preserve the unique character of the area while providing more efficient services to residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Salem Lakes is served by the Salem School District and the Wilmot Union High School District. Notable landmarks in the village include Silver Lake Park, a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing. The park also features a beach, picnic areas, and trails, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities. Another key site is the Kenosha County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Kenosha County Fair, a major event that draws visitors from across the region. The village is also home to several historical sites, including old farmhouses and churches that reflect the area’s rich agricultural heritage.