Cities and Towns in Larimer County, Colorado
Founded on 1861-11-01, Larimer County is one of 64 counties in the state of Colorado. Historically, Larimer County was formed from Created as one of the 17 original counties of the Territory of Colorado. The city of Fort Collins is the county seat. With FIPS code of 69, Larimer County has a population of 362,533 and area of 2,631.75 square miles (6,816 km²).
List of all cities in Larimer County, CO alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Bellvue, CO | 80512 | 970 |
Berthoud, CO | 80513 | 970 |
Colorado State University, CO | 80523 | 970 |
Drake, CO | 80515 | 970 |
Estes Park, CO | 80511 | 970 |
80517 | 970 | |
Fort Collins, CO | 80521 | 970 |
80522 | 970 | |
80523 | 970 | |
80524 | 970 | |
80525 | 970 | |
80526 | 970 | |
80527 | 970 | |
80528 | 970 | |
80553 | 970 | |
Glen Haven, CO | 80532 | 970 |
Laporte, CO | 80535 | 970 |
Livermore, CO | 80536 | 970 |
Loveland, CO | 80537 | 970 |
80538 | 970 | |
80539 | 970 | |
Masonville, CO | 80541 | 970 |
Red Feather Lakes, CO | 80536 | 970 |
80545 | 970 | |
Rocky Mountain National Park, CO | 80517 | 970 |
Teledyne Water Pik, CO | 80553 | 970 |
Timnath, CO | 80547 | 970 |
Virginia Dale, CO | 80536 | 970 |
Wellington, CO | 80549 | 970 |
Windsor, CO | 80528 | 970 |
Major Cities and Towns in Larimer County, Colorado
Fort Collins
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 58.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 174,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80521, 80524, 80525, 80526, 80528
- Latitude: 40.5853° N
- Longitude: 105.0844° W
City Location and History
Fort Collins, the county seat and largest city in Larimer County, is located in northern Colorado along the Cache la Poudre River. The city was established in 1864 as a military outpost during the Indian Wars and was named after Colonel William O. Collins, the commander of the 11th Ohio Cavalry. After the fort was decommissioned in 1867, the area gradually developed into a vibrant agricultural center, thanks in part to the fertile land and abundant water supply. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s spurred further growth, transforming Fort Collins into a key regional hub for trade and commerce. Over the years, the city has diversified its economy, with education, technology, and brewing industries becoming major contributors. Fort Collins is home to Colorado State University, a major research institution, which has played a significant role in the city’s growth and cultural development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fort Collins is served by the Poudre School District, with Fort Collins High School and Rocky Mountain High School being the primary secondary institutions. The city is also home to Colorado State University, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Major landmarks include the Old Town Historic District, known for its preserved 19th-century architecture and vibrant shopping and dining scene. The Fort Collins Museum of Discovery offers interactive exhibits on science and local history, while the Gardens on Spring Creek showcases beautiful botanical displays. The Cache la Poudre River, Colorado’s only designated National Wild and Scenic River, provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Fort Collins is also famous for its craft beer scene, with numerous breweries, including New Belgium and Odell, contributing to the city’s reputation as a beer capital. Fort Collins’ blend of historical significance, educational resources, and cultural attractions makes it the heart of Larimer County.
Loveland
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 35.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 81,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80537, 80538, 80539
- Latitude: 40.3978° N
- Longitude: 105.0749° W
City Location and History
Loveland is a city located south of Fort Collins, along the Big Thompson River. Founded in 1877, the city was named after William A.H. Loveland, a prominent railroad entrepreneur and the president of the Colorado Central Railroad. The railroad played a crucial role in the city’s early development, establishing Loveland as a shipping center for agricultural products, particularly sugar beets and wheat. The city later diversified its economy to include manufacturing and, more recently, technology and healthcare industries. Loveland is also known as the “Sweetheart City” due to its long-standing tradition of re-mailing Valentine’s Day cards with a special postmark, a tradition that has garnered national attention.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Loveland is served by the Thompson School District, with Loveland High School and Thompson Valley High School being the main secondary institutions. The city’s major landmarks include the Benson Sculpture Garden, which features over 150 sculptures by artists from around the world, making it one of the most renowned sculpture gardens in the country. The Loveland Museum offers exhibits on local history and art, while the Rialto Theater, a historic venue, hosts a variety of cultural performances. The nearby Boyd Lake State Park provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, attracting outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year. Loveland’s combination of historical charm, cultural resources, and access to outdoor recreation makes it a vibrant and important community in Larimer County.
Estes Park
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 5.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,400 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80517
- Latitude: 40.3772° N
- Longitude: 105.5217° W
City Location and History
Estes Park is a small town located in the Rocky Mountains, serving as the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after Joel Estes, a Missouri native who founded a ranch in the area in 1859. Estes Park quickly became a popular destination for tourists seeking to experience the natural beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The arrival of the Stanley Hotel in 1909, built by inventor F.O. Stanley, further boosted the town’s reputation as a premier mountain resort. Today, Estes Park is known for its stunning scenery, outdoor activities, and as a base for exploring Rocky Mountain National Park.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Estes Park is served by the Estes Park School District R-3, with Estes Park High School being the primary secondary institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Stanley Hotel, which inspired Stephen King’s novel The Shining and is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and paranormal investigators alike. The Estes Park Aerial Tramway offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, while the Riverwalk in downtown Estes Park provides a scenic path along the Big Thompson River, lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries. Rocky Mountain National Park, just a short drive from town, offers world-class hiking, wildlife viewing, and mountaineering, making Estes Park a hub for outdoor adventure. Estes Park’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and natural beauty makes it a cherished community in Larimer County.
Berthoud
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 13.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80513
- Latitude: 40.3055° N
- Longitude: 105.0811° W
City Location and History
Berthoud is a small town located in the southern part of Larimer County, near the border with Boulder County. The town was established in 1877 and was named after Edward L. Berthoud, a surveyor for the Colorado Central Railroad. Berthoud originally developed as an agricultural community, with sugar beets, wheat, and alfalfa being the primary crops. The arrival of the railroad facilitated the town’s growth, making it an important center for farming and trade in the region. Today, Berthoud has retained its small-town charm while experiencing steady growth due to its proximity to larger cities like Loveland and Longmont.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Berthoud is served by the Thompson School District, with Berthoud High School being the main secondary school. The town’s major landmarks include the Little Thompson Valley Pioneer Museum, which preserves the history of Berthoud and the surrounding area through exhibits and artifacts from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town is also home to several historic buildings, including the Berthoud Hotel and the Presbyterian Church, both of which reflect the town’s early architectural styles. The nearby Carter Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Berthoud’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and close-knit community atmosphere makes it a valued part of Larimer County.
Wellington
Area, Population, and Geography
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 80549
- Latitude: 40.7039° N
- Longitude: 105.0083° W
City Location and History
Wellington is a small town located in the northern part of Larimer County, just north of Fort Collins. Founded in 1902, Wellington was named after Charles L. Wellington, a Colorado and Southern Railroad employee who played a key role in the town’s establishment. The town developed as an agricultural community, with wheat and sugar beets being the primary crops. Over time, Wellington grew into a close-knit community, known for its friendly atmosphere and rural charm. The town has seen significant growth in recent years due to its proximity to Fort Collins and its appeal as a quieter, more affordable place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wellington is served by the Poudre School District, with students typically attending Poudre High School in nearby Fort Collins. The town’s major landmarks include the historic Wellington Hotel, which dates back to the early 20th century and reflects the town’s railroad heritage. The Leeper Center, a community hub, hosts events, meetings, and recreational activities for residents. The town is also home to several parks, including Centennial Park and Library Park, which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas. The nearby Pawnee National Grassland provides opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the natural beauty of the Colorado plains. Wellington’s combination of historical roots, educational resources, and growing community make it an important and vibrant town in Larimer County.