Cities and Towns in Lyon County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Lyon County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Lyon County was formed from Woodbury County, Iowa. The city of Rock Rapids is the county seat. With FIPS code of 119, Lyon County has a population of 12,011 and area of 588 square miles (1,523 km²).
List of all cities in Lyon County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alvord, IA | 51230 | 712 |
| Doon, IA | 51235 | 712 |
| Edna, IA | 51246 | 712 |
| George, IA | 51237 | 712 |
| Granite, IA | 51241 | 712 |
| Inwood, IA | 51240 | 712 |
| Larchwood, IA | 51241 | 712 |
| Lester, IA | 51242 | 712 |
| Little Rock, IA | 51243 | 712 |
| Rock Rapids, IA | 51246 | 712 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lyon County, Iowa
Rock Rapids
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.76 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,600 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51246
- Latitude: 43.4283° N
- Longitude: 96.1769° W
City Location and History
Rock Rapids, the county seat of Lyon County, is located in the northwestern corner of Iowa, near the Rock River. The city was founded in the 1870s and developed around the river, which provided water power for early mills. Rock Rapids quickly became a key agricultural and trade hub for the region, benefiting from its proximity to both the Iowa and South Dakota borders. Its name comes from the rapids on the Rock River, which were a prominent feature in the town’s early development. The railroad also played a significant role in Rock Rapids’ growth, connecting it to larger markets and fostering the development of local businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rock Rapids is served by the Central Lyon Community School District, with Central Lyon High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks in the city include Island Park, a scenic area located along the Rock River that offers walking trails, camping, and a historic water tower. The Lyon County Historical Museum preserves the town’s rich history and agricultural heritage. Each summer, Rock Rapids hosts the Heritage Days festival, which includes a parade, carnival rides, and community-wide events that celebrate the town’s history and close-knit community spirit.
George
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.05 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51237
- Latitude: 43.3428° N
- Longitude: 96.0017° W
City Location and History
George is located in the eastern part of Lyon County and was established in 1881. Named after a local settler, George H. Hunt, the town grew as a center for agriculture and trade. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century boosted the town’s development, allowing local farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Agriculture remains central to George’s economy, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary products. Over time, George has maintained its small-town charm, with a focus on community and family values.
Major Schools and Landmarks
George is part of the George-Little Rock Community School District, with George-Little Rock High School serving the local population. One of the town’s key landmarks is the George City Park, which provides green space for recreation and hosts community events. The town’s historic train depot, now a museum, reflects George’s railroad heritage. The town also hosts an annual George Fun Days celebration, featuring parades, games, and local vendors, which draws residents and visitors together to celebrate the town’s history and community spirit. George’s rural setting and agricultural heritage make it a peaceful and welcoming place to live.
Inwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.24 square miles
- Population: Approximately 900 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51240
- Latitude: 43.3089° N
- Longitude: 96.4286° W
City Location and History
Inwood is located in the western part of Lyon County, near the Big Sioux River and the South Dakota border. Founded in 1884, Inwood was developed as a small agricultural community, with its economy primarily based on farming. The arrival of the railroad allowed Inwood to grow steadily as a trade center for local farmers. Over the years, the town has remained small but has preserved its rural charm and agricultural roots. Its location near the state border also makes Inwood an important link between Iowa and South Dakota.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Inwood is part of the West Lyon Community School District, with West Lyon High School serving the surrounding area. The town’s main landmark is the Inwood City Park, which offers recreational facilities and is the site of local events throughout the year. Inwood also has a strong connection to the Big Sioux River, with several scenic spots nearby offering opportunities for fishing, hiking, and outdoor activities. The town hosts the annual Inwood 4th of July celebration, which includes a parade, fireworks, and family-friendly events, drawing visitors from across the region. Inwood’s agricultural heritage and quiet setting make it a close-knit and scenic community.
Larchwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.97 square miles
- Population: Approximately 900 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51241
- Latitude: 43.4542° N
- Longitude: 96.4342° W
City Location and History
Larchwood is situated in the northwestern corner of Lyon County, near the borders of South Dakota and Minnesota. Founded in 1872 by a group of land developers, Larchwood was named after the larch trees that grew in the area. The town’s early growth was driven by agriculture, with fertile farmland attracting settlers. Over the years, Larchwood developed as a small but important agricultural hub, with farming remaining the primary industry. Its strategic location near two state borders has also contributed to its growth as a regional trade center.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Larchwood is part of the West Lyon Community School District, with West Lyon High School located nearby. The town’s most notable landmark is the Grand Falls Casino and Golf Resort, which attracts visitors from the tri-state area and provides recreational opportunities such as golf, dining, and entertainment. Larchwood also features a historic grain elevator, a reminder of its agricultural past. The town celebrates its history with an annual Larchwood Days festival, which includes parades, games, and live entertainment. Larchwood’s rural setting, combined with its modern amenities, makes it a unique blend of small-town charm and contemporary appeal.
Lester
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.18 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51242
- Latitude: 43.4381° N
- Longitude: 96.3322° W
City Location and History
Lester is a small town located in the northern part of Lyon County, close to the Minnesota border. Founded in 1889, Lester developed as a farming community, with local farmers growing corn, soybeans, and raising livestock. The town was named after Lester Corporation, a group of businessmen who helped establish the community. Though small, Lester played an important role as a local agricultural hub, with its residents primarily engaged in farming and trade. The town’s small population has allowed it to maintain its rural character and strong community bonds.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lester is part of the West Lyon Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Inwood. The town’s key landmarks include Lester City Park, which provides recreational space for residents and hosts local gatherings. A historic grain elevator in Lester reflects the town’s deep agricultural roots. Each year, Lester celebrates with community events such as outdoor picnics and farmers’ markets, where residents come together to celebrate their agricultural heritage. Lester’s peaceful rural setting, combined with its strong farming traditions, makes it a welcoming and close-knit community.
Alvord
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.14 square miles
- Population: Approximately 200 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51230
- Latitude: 43.3442° N
- Longitude: 96.3169° W
City Location and History
Alvord is located in central Lyon County, and it was founded in 1893. The town grew as a small agricultural community, supported by the fertile farmland surrounding it. Like many small towns in Lyon County, Alvord’s economy has historically been based on farming, with corn and soybean production being the primary agricultural activities. Although Alvord has remained a small community throughout its history, it has maintained a strong connection to its rural roots and offers a quiet, peaceful lifestyle for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Alvord is part of the West Lyon Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Inwood. The town’s key landmark is Alvord City Park, which provides a space for outdoor activities and community events. The town also hosts local gatherings such as community picnics and outdoor sports events, which bring residents together and strengthen the town’s community bonds. Alvord’s small size, rural setting, and agricultural focus make it a quintessential example of Iowa’s small-town charm and strong sense of community.
