Cities and Towns in Livingston County, Illinois

Founded in 1837, Livingston County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Livingston County was formed from LaSalle and McLean County. The city of Pontiac is the county seat. With FIPS code of 105, Livingston County has a population of 35,664 and area of 1,043 square miles (2,701 km²).

List of all cities in Livingston County, IL alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Ancona, IL 61311 815/779
Avoca, IL 61739 815/779
Blackstone, IL 61313 815/779
Campus, IL 60920 815/779
Cayuga, IL 61764 815/779
Champlin, IL 61739 815/779
Chatsworth, IL 60921 815/779
Cornell, IL 61319 815/779
Cullom, IL 60929 815/779
Dwight, IL 60420 815/779
Emington, IL 60934 815/779
Eppards Point, IL 61764 815/779
Eylar, IL 61769 815/779
Fairbury, IL 61739 815/779
Flanagan, IL 61740 815/779
Forrest, IL 61741 815/779
Graymont, IL 61743 815/779
Long Point, IL 61333 815/779
Manville, IL 61319 815/779
McDowell, IL 61764 815/779
Nebraska Township, IL 61740 815/779
Ocoya, IL 61764 815/779
Odell, IL 60460 815/779
Owego, IL 61764 815/779
Pleasant Ridge, IL 61741 815/779
Pontiac, IL 61764 815/779
Reading, IL 61311 815/779
Rooks Creek, IL 61764 815/779
Rowe, IL 61764 815/779
Rugby, IL 61764 815/779
Saunemin, IL 61769 815/779
Scovel, IL 61769 815/779
Strawn, IL 61775 815/779
Sunbury, IL 61313 815/779
Swygert, IL 61764 815/779
Vermillion Estates, IL 61764 815/779
Wing, IL 61741 815/779

Major Cities and Towns in Livingston County, Illinois

Pontiac

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 8.57 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 11,000
  • Zip Codes: 61764
  • Latitude and Longitude: 40.8803° N, 88.6292° W

Location and History

Pontiac, the county seat of Livingston County, is situated along the Vermilion River, centrally located in Illinois, approximately 100 miles southwest of Chicago. Founded in 1837, Pontiac grew rapidly with the expansion of the Illinois Central Railroad in the mid-1800s, which established it as a vital hub for trade and agriculture. The city’s name honors the Ottawa Native American leader, Chief Pontiac. Throughout its history, Pontiac has been home to a robust agricultural community, while its location on U.S. Route 66 brought tourism and automobile culture to the city. Today, it remains a blend of historical significance and modern development, with a charming downtown district that showcases its roots in the railroad and Route 66 eras.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pontiac’s educational system is anchored by Pontiac Township High School and a few primary schools. Pontiac is also home to the Heartland Community College satellite campus, serving adult learners and vocational students. Significant landmarks include the Pontiac Oakland Auto Museum, dedicated to the city’s automotive heritage, and the Livingston County Courthouse, an architectural gem built in 1875. The Route 66 Hall of Fame Museum celebrates the iconic highway’s history and draws tourists from all over the country, making Pontiac a key stop for Route 66 enthusiasts.


Dwight

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 3.16 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,000
  • Zip Codes: 60420
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.0931° N, 88.4245° W

Location and History

Dwight is a village located in the northeastern corner of Livingston County, about 80 miles southwest of Chicago. Established in 1854 along the Chicago and Alton Railroad, Dwight initially served as a railroad hub and agricultural town. The village became well-known due to its association with the Keeley Institute, which was a renowned addiction treatment center in the late 19th century. Over time, Dwight became a popular stopping point for travelers along Route 66, with many businesses and attractions tailored to this legendary highway. While its history is deeply rooted in agriculture and transportation, Dwight today boasts a blend of historical and modern-day industries, including light manufacturing.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Dwight’s school system includes Dwight Township High School and Dwight Common School, which provide education for students from kindergarten through high school. Dwight’s most iconic landmark is the Dwight Railroad Depot, a stunning example of prairie-style architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. Other notable landmarks include the Keeley Institute’s historic buildings and the Ambler’s Texaco Gas Station, which now serves as a popular tourist destination along Route 66. These sites offer a glimpse into the village’s significant role in transportation and healthcare history.


Fairbury

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 2.12 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,500
  • Zip Codes: 61739
  • Latitude and Longitude: 40.7467° N, 88.5145° W

Location and History

Fairbury is located in the eastern part of Livingston County, roughly 45 miles west of Bloomington-Normal. It was founded in 1857 when the Toledo, Peoria, and Western Railroad arrived, bringing growth and establishing it as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural areas. Fairbury was named after Fairbury, Vermont, reflecting the New England origins of many of its settlers. The town grew steadily due to its prime location along the railroad and its rich farmland, attracting immigrants and businesses alike. Today, Fairbury maintains a small-town feel with a strong sense of community and pride in its history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fairbury is home to Prairie Central High School, which serves several surrounding communities, as well as Fairbury-Cropsey Junior High and various elementary schools. Notable landmarks include the Walton Centre, which hosts cultural and social events, and the Fairbury Echoes Museum, where visitors can learn about the town’s rich heritage. Additionally, Indian Creek Golf Course and the Dominy Memorial Library serve as important community gathering spots. The town also holds an annual Fairbury Fair, one of the county’s largest and oldest fairs, showcasing agricultural achievements and local talent.


Flanagan

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 0.59 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,100
  • Zip Codes: 61740
  • Latitude and Longitude: 40.8778° N, 88.8612° W

Location and History

Flanagan is a small village located in the western part of Livingston County, about 40 miles north of Bloomington. The village was founded in 1856 by Matthew Scott, a land agent, and its name was chosen to honor his Scottish ancestors. Flanagan has always been deeply connected to agriculture, with farming being the main industry for generations. Although small, the village’s proximity to larger cities allowed it to thrive as a peaceful residential community for those working in nearby urban centers. The village has retained its agricultural roots, with corn and soybean farming remaining central to its economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Flanagan-Cornell High School is the primary educational institution in the village, serving students from several nearby towns as well. Flanagan is also home to Flanagan Grade School. Among the village’s notable landmarks is the historic Methodist Episcopal Church, built in the 19th century, and the village square, where community events and farmers’ markets are held. The annual Flanagan Fall Festival celebrates the region’s agricultural traditions and serves as a major community event, drawing visitors from throughout Livingston County.


Odell

Area, Population, and Zip Codes

  • Area: 1.00 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,000
  • Zip Codes: 60460
  • Latitude and Longitude: 41.0031° N, 88.5268° W

Location and History

Odell is a small village located in the northern part of Livingston County, approximately 90 miles southwest of Chicago along historic Route 66. The village was founded in 1856, primarily as a stop along the Chicago and Alton Railroad. Its economy was historically based on agriculture, with many of its early residents working in farming or railroad-related industries. Odell gained significant fame in the 20th century as a prominent stop along Route 66, with travelers frequenting the town for fuel and rest. Although the construction of Interstate 55 diverted much of the traffic, the village has maintained its connection to the iconic highway through restoration efforts and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Odell Grade School serves the village’s children, while high school students typically attend Pontiac Township High School. The village is home to several historical landmarks, including the Odell Station, a restored 1932 Standard Oil gas station, which is a popular Route 66 tourist attraction. The St. Paul’s Catholic Church, with its towering steeple, is another key landmark in the community. Odell’s Route 66 attractions, combined with its quaint charm, make it a small but important stop for visitors exploring the Mother Road’s rich history.