Cities and Towns in Lake County, Ohio

Founded in Mar 6, 1840, Lake County is one of 88 counties in the state of Ohio. Historically, Lake County was formed from Geauga and Cuyahoga Counties. The city of Painesville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 85, Lake County has a population of 232,023 and area of 228.21 square miles (591 km²).

List of all cities in Lake County, OH alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Concord Township, OH 44060 440
44077 440
Eastlake, OH 44095 440
44097 440
Fairport Harbor, OH 44077 440
Grand River, OH 44045 440
Kirtland, OH 44094 440
Kirtland Hills, OH 44060 440
44094 440
Lakeline, OH 44095 440
Madison, OH 44057 440
Madison-on-the-Lake, OH 44057 440
Mentor, OH 44060 440
44061 440
Mentor on the Lake, OH 44060 440
North Madison, OH 44057 440
North Perry, OH 44081 440
Painesville, OH 44077 440
Perry, OH 44081 440
South Madison, OH 44057 440
Timberlake, OH 44095 440
Waite Hill, OH 44094 440
Wickliffe, OH 44092 440
44094 440
Willoughby, OH 44094 440
44095 440
44096 440
44097 440
Willoughby Hills, OH 44092 440
44094 440
Willowick, OH 44092 440
44094 440
44095 440
Wiloughby Hls, OH 44092 440
44094 440

Major Cities and Towns in Lake County, Ohio

Mentor

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 28.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 59,932 (2022 estimate)
  • ZIP Codes: 44060
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.6662° N, 81.3396° W

Location and History

Mentor is located in northeastern Ohio, along the southern shore of Lake Erie, approximately 20 miles northeast of Cleveland. Established in 1797, the city was named after the Greek figure Mentor, reflecting the classical interests of its early settlers. Mentor’s development accelerated with the arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century, transforming it into a summer retreat for Cleveland’s affluent residents. The city gained national prominence as the home of President James A. Garfield, whose residence, Lawnfield, is now a National Historic Site. In the 20th century, Mentor evolved into a suburban community, balancing residential neighborhoods with commercial growth.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mentor is served by the Mentor Public Schools district, which includes Mentor High School, one of the largest high schools in Ohio, along with several middle and elementary schools. Notable landmarks include the James A. Garfield National Historic Site, preserving the home and legacy of the 20th U.S. President. The Mentor Lagoons Nature Preserve and Marina offers over 450 acres of natural habitats, trails, and access to Lake Erie. The city also features the Great Lakes Mall, a regional shopping destination, and Headlands Beach State Park, Ohio’s longest natural beach, attracting visitors for swimming, picnicking, and bird watching.

Painesville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 7.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 58,369 (2022 estimate)
  • ZIP Codes: 44077
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.7245° N, 81.2457° W

Location and History

Painesville, the county seat of Lake County, is situated along the Grand River, about 30 miles northeast of Cleveland. Founded in 1800 and named after General Edward Paine, a Revolutionary War veteran, the city became a center for agriculture and trade in the early 19th century. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-1800s spurred industrial growth, with manufacturing becoming a significant part of the local economy. Painesville’s historic downtown reflects its rich heritage, featuring architecture from various periods and a vibrant community atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Painesville is home to Lake Erie College, a private liberal arts institution established in 1856, offering undergraduate and graduate programs. The Painesville City Local School District serves the area, including Harvey High School, Heritage Middle School, and several elementary schools. Notable landmarks include the Lake County Courthouse, an architectural centerpiece of the downtown area, and Veterans Park, the city’s oldest park, hosting community events and providing green space for recreation. The historic Steele Mansion, now a boutique hotel, showcases 19th-century elegance and craftsmanship.

Willoughby

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 10.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 36,958 (2022 estimate)
  • ZIP Codes: 44094
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.6395° N, 81.4065° W

Location and History

Willoughby is located along the Chagrin River, about 18 miles northeast of Cleveland. Established in 1798, the city was named after Dr. Westel Willoughby Jr., a public health advocate. Willoughby’s early economy was based on agriculture and milling, with the river providing power for various industries. The city’s historic downtown district reflects its rich past, featuring well-preserved 19th-century architecture and a variety of shops and restaurants. Over time, Willoughby has grown into a suburban community, balancing residential areas with commercial development.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Willoughby is part of the Willoughby-Eastlake City School District, which includes South High School, Willoughby Middle School, and several elementary schools. Notable landmarks include the Willoughby Ghost Walk, a guided tour exploring the city’s haunted history, and the annual Willoughby ArtsFest, showcasing local artists and performers. The Willoughby Brewing Company, housed in a historic building, offers craft beers and dining, contributing to the city’s vibrant social scene. The Chagrin River Park provides trails and natural areas for outdoor enthusiasts.

Eastlake

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 6.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 32,635 (2022 estimate)
  • ZIP Codes: 44095
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.6534° N, 81.4351° W

Location and History

Eastlake is situated along the southern shore of Lake Erie, approximately 20 miles northeast of Cleveland. Incorporated as a city in 1951, Eastlake developed primarily as a residential suburb, with its growth closely tied to the post-World War II housing boom. The city’s proximity to Lake Erie has influenced its recreational opportunities and community identity. Eastlake has focused on providing amenities and services to support a high quality of life for its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Eastlake is part of the Willoughby-Eastlake City School District, which includes North High School, Eastlake Middle School, and several elementary schools. Notable landmarks include Classic Park, home to the Lake County Captains, a minor league baseball team affiliated with the Cleveland Guardians. The Chagrin River flows through the city, offering fishing and boating opportunities. The Eastlake Public Library provides resources and programs for all ages, contributing to the community’s educational and cultural offerings.