Cities and Towns in Lake County, Illinois
Founded in 1839, Lake County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Lake County was formed from McHenry County. The city of Waukegan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 97, Lake County has a population of 711,239 and area of 443 square miles (1,147 km²).
List of all cities in Lake County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Abbott Park, IL | 60064 | 847/224 |
| Antioch, IL | 60002 | 847/224 |
| Bannockburn, IL | 60015 | 847/224 |
| Barrington, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| 60011 | 847/224 | |
| Barrington Hills, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Beach Park, IL | 60083 | 847/224 |
| 60087 | 847/224 | |
| 60099 | 847/224 | |
| Buffalo Grove, IL | 60089 | 847/224 |
| Chesney Shores, IL | 60046 | 847/224 |
| Deer Park, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Deerfield, IL | 60015 | 847/224 |
| Downey, IL | 60064 | 847/224 |
| Echo Lake, IL | 60047 | 847/224 |
| Forest Lake, IL | 60047 | 847/224 |
| Fort Sheridan, IL | 60037 | 847/224 |
| Fox Lake, IL | 60020 | 847/224 |
| Fox Lake Hills, IL | 60046 | 847/224 |
| Fox River Valley Gardens, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Gages Lake, IL | 60030 | 847/224 |
| Grayslake, IL | 60030 | 847/224 |
| Great Lakes, IL | 60088 | 847/224 |
| Green Oaks, IL | 60044 | 847/224 |
| 60045 | 847/224 | |
| 60048 | 847/224 | |
| Gurnee, IL | 60031 | 847/224 |
| Hainesville, IL | 60030 | 847/224 |
| Hainesville, IL | 60073 | 847/224 |
| Half Day, IL | 60069 | 847/224 |
| Hawthorn Woods, IL | 60047 | 847/224 |
| Highland Park, IL | 60035 | 847/224 |
| 60037 | 847/224 | |
| Highwood, IL | 60040 | 847/224 |
| Hoffman Estates, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Indian Creek, IL | 60061 | 847/224 |
| Ingleside, IL | 60041 | 847/224 |
| Inverness, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Island Lake, IL | 60042 | 847/224 |
| Kemper Ins Co, IL | 60049 | 847/224 |
| Kildeer, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| 60047 | 847/224 | |
| Knollwood, IL | 60044 | 847/224 |
| Lake Barrington, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| 60084 | 847/224 | |
| Lake Barrington Shores, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Lake Bluff, IL | 60044 | 847/224 |
| Lake Forest, IL | 60045 | 847/224 |
| Lake Villa, IL | 60046 | 847/224 |
| Lake Zurich, IL | 60047 | 847/224 |
| 60049 | 847/224 | |
| Libertyville, IL | 60048 | 847/224 |
| 60092 | 847/224 | |
| Lincolnshire, IL | 60069 | 847/224 |
| Lincolnshire Woods, IL | 60045 | 847/224 |
| Lindenhurst, IL | 60046 | 847/224 |
| Long Grove, IL | 60047 | 847/224 |
| 60049 | 847/224 | |
| 60060 | 847/224 | |
| Long Lake, IL | 60041 | 847/224 |
| Mettawa, IL | 60045 | 847/224 |
| 60048 | 847/224 | |
| Mundelein, IL | 60060 | 847/224 |
| North Barrington, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| North Chicago, IL | 60064 | 847/224 |
| 60086 | 847/224 | |
| 60088 | 847/224 | |
| Old Mill Creek, IL | 60002 | 847/224 |
| 60083 | 847/224 | |
| Park City, IL | 60085 | 847/224 |
| Point Barrington, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Port Barrington, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Prairie View, IL | 60069 | 847/224 |
| Prairieview, IL | 60069 | 847/224 |
| Riverwoods, IL | 60015 | 847/224 |
| Round Lake, IL | 60073 | 847/224 |
| Round Lake Beach, IL | 60073 | 847/224 |
| Round Lake Heights, IL | 60073 | 847/224 |
| Round Lake Park, IL | 60073 | 847/224 |
| Russell, IL | 60075 | 847/224 |
| Selective Service, IL | 60086 | 847/224 |
| South Barrington, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Stanton Point, IL | 60041 | 847/224 |
| Third Lake, IL | 60030 | 847/224 |
| Timber Lake, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Tower Lakes, IL | 60010 | 847/224 |
| Venetian Village, IL | 60046 | 847/224 |
| Vernon Hills, IL | 60061 | 847/224 |
| Volo, IL | 60020 | 847/224 |
| 60030 | 847/224 | |
| 60041 | 847/224 | |
| 60073 | 847/224 | |
| Wadsworth, IL | 60002 | 847/224 |
| 60083 | 847/224 | |
| Wauconda, IL | 60084 | 847/224 |
| Waukegan, IL | 60079 | 847/224 |
| 60085 | 847/224 | |
| 60087 | 847/224 | |
| West Miltmore, IL | 60046 | 847/224 |
| Wildwood, IL | 60030 | 847/224 |
| Winthrop Harbor, IL | 60096 | 847/224 |
| Zion, IL | 60099 | 847/224 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lake County, Illinois
1. Waukegan
Area, Population, and Geographic Data
- Area: 24.5 square miles
- Population: 89,321 (as of 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60079, 60085, 60087
- Latitude: 42.3636° N
- Longitude: 87.8448° W
Location and History
Waukegan is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, approximately 40 miles north of Chicago. It serves as the county seat of Lake County. Historically, Waukegan started as a Potawatomi settlement called “Little Fort” and was officially named Waukegan, meaning “fort” or “trading post,” in 1849. The town grew rapidly during the 19th century, driven by its location as a port city and its development in manufacturing. By the 20th century, Waukegan became a key industrial hub in the Chicago metropolitan area, hosting various companies, including Johnson Motors and the US Steel Plant.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waukegan is home to several major educational institutions, including Waukegan High School, one of the largest in the state. The city also features the College of Lake County’s Lakeshore Campus. Major landmarks include the Genesee Theatre, a historic venue for concerts and performances, and Waukegan Harbor, a central part of the city’s lakeside culture. The city also has the Jack Benny Center for the Arts, named after the famous comedian who was born in Waukegan.
2. Buffalo Grove
Area, Population, and Geographic Data
- Area: 9.6 square miles
- Population: 41,496 (as of 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60069, 60089
- Latitude: 42.1663° N
- Longitude: 87.9631° W
Location and History
Buffalo Grove is located in both Lake and Cook Counties, about 30 miles northwest of Chicago. Originally farmland, the area saw development in the 1950s when suburban growth spread from Chicago. Buffalo Grove’s name reportedly originates from bison herds that once grazed the land. During the mid-20th century, it rapidly transformed from a rural community into a suburban haven. Its growth was fueled by its proximity to Chicago and the development of residential subdivisions that attracted families looking for suburban living with easy city access.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Buffalo Grove is home to highly rated schools such as Buffalo Grove High School and Stevenson High School, a top-ranked public high school. The town features several notable landmarks, including Buffalo Creek Forest Preserve, a popular recreational area, and the Raupp Museum, which chronicles the area’s local history. Buffalo Grove Days, an annual festival, celebrates the community with parades, food, and music.
3. Mundelein
Area, Population, and Geographic Data
- Area: 9.97 square miles
- Population: 31,064 (as of 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60060
- Latitude: 42.2631° N
- Longitude: 88.0037° W
Location and History
Mundelein is located in central Lake County, approximately 35 miles northwest of Chicago. The town has a rich history that dates back to its founding as a small settlement known as Mechanics Grove in the 1830s. It went through several name changes, including Holcomb and Rockefeller, before adopting its current name, Mundelein, in 1909, in honor of Cardinal George Mundelein, a prominent figure in the Catholic Church. Over time, Mundelein evolved into a suburban community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mundelein boasts several well-regarded schools, including Mundelein High School and Carmel Catholic High School. The village is also home to the University of Saint Mary of the Lake, a significant theological seminary. Major landmarks include Diamond Lake, a popular recreational spot, and the Ivanhoe Country Club, which offers golf and events. Mundelein’s annual events, such as the Mundelein Arts Festival, also draw residents and visitors alike.
4. Libertyville
Area, Population, and Geographic Data
- Area: 36 square miles
- Population: 20,579 (as of 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60048
- Latitude: 42.2831° N
- Longitude: 87.9531° W
Location and History
Libertyville is located in the heart of Lake County, roughly 37 miles north of Chicago. Founded in the early 1830s, Libertyville was originally called “Independence Grove,” but was renamed when Illinois applied for statehood. Its development as a suburban community surged in the 20th century, particularly after World War II. The village has maintained its historic charm, preserving many of its older buildings and tree-lined streets. Today, Libertyville is known for its quaint downtown, with many historic buildings that house boutiques, restaurants, and cafes.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Libertyville is served by highly regarded schools, including Libertyville High School and the Adler School for gifted education. The town is also home to the Cook Memorial Public Library. Major landmarks include the scenic Independence Grove Forest Preserve, which offers trails, boating, and picnic areas, as well as the David Adler Cultural Center, a hub for arts and music education. The Libertyville Sports Complex is a popular facility for recreational activities and community events.
5. Vernon Hills
Area, Population, and Geographic Data
- Area: 7.99 square miles
- Population: 26,850 (as of 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60061
- Latitude: 42.2439° N
- Longitude: 87.9656° W
Location and History
Vernon Hills, located about 35 miles north of downtown Chicago, began as a small farming community in the early 1900s. Development accelerated in the 1950s when residential and commercial real estate expanded in the area. Vernon Hills became known for its planned communities and retail development, including the construction of the popular Hawthorn Mall in the 1970s. Today, Vernon Hills is a vibrant suburban community, with a strong economy driven by retail, education, and technology companies.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Vernon Hills High School is one of the area’s top educational institutions. The village is also served by the Hawthorn School District, which includes several elementary and middle schools. Major landmarks include the aforementioned Hawthorn Mall, the Cuneo Mansion and Gardens, which is an Italianate mansion that now serves as a museum and event space, and the Vernon Hills Golf Course, a popular spot for local golfers. Vernon Hills also hosts many community events at Century Park, a large recreation area with lakes, playgrounds, and walking trails.
6. Highland Park
Area, Population, and Geographic Data
- Area: 12.2 square miles
- Population: 30,176 (as of 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 60035
- Latitude: 42.1817° N
- Longitude: 87.8004° W
Location and History
Highland Park is located along the Lake Michigan shoreline, approximately 25 miles north of downtown Chicago. Founded in 1869, Highland Park developed as a commuter suburb, with wealthy Chicagoans building summer homes along the lake. By the early 20th century, the city had become a well-established residential area with strong transportation links to Chicago, thanks to the railroad. Highland Park continues to be known for its affluence, with many historic homes and estates.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Highland Park is home to Highland Park High School, part of Township High School District 113, known for its academic excellence. The town boasts numerous landmarks, including the Ravinia Festival, the oldest outdoor music festival in the United States. Additionally, the Rosewood Beach along Lake Michigan and the Chicago Botanic Garden (located just outside the city) are popular attractions. The town’s central business district, known for its boutiques and restaurants, also adds to its charm.