Cities and Towns in Lyon County, Minnesota
Founded in 1871, Lyon County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Lyon County was formed from Redwood County. The city of Marshall is the county seat. With FIPS code of 83, Lyon County has a population of 25,231 and area of 714.17 square miles (1,850 km²).
List of all cities in Lyon County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Amiret, MN | 56175 | 507 |
| Balaton, MN | 56115 | 507 |
| Cottonwood, MN | 56229 | 507 |
| Garvin, MN | 56132 | 507 |
| Ghent, MN | 56239 | 507 |
| Lynd, MN | 56157 | 507 |
| Marshall, MN | 56258 | 507 |
| Minneota, MN | 56264 | 507 |
| Russell, MN | 56169 | 507 |
| Saint Leo, MN | 56264 | 507 |
| Taunton, MN | 56291 | 507 |
| Tracy, MN | 56175 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lyon County, Minnesota
1. Marshall, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 8.32 square miles
- Population: Approximately 13,000 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56258
- Latitude: 44.4447° N
- Longitude: 95.7833° W
City Location and History
Marshall is the county seat of Lyon County, located in the southwestern part of Minnesota. The city was founded in 1872 and originally named after the town of Marshall, Michigan. It quickly grew as a commercial and transportation center due to its location at the intersection of major railroads, and its economy has historically been based on agriculture and grain milling. Marshall’s strategic location near the Minnesota River also helped in the transportation of agricultural goods. The city’s population and economy grew steadily throughout the 20th century, expanding into manufacturing and services while still retaining its agricultural roots. Marshall has been recognized for its community involvement, economic development, and quality of life, making it a regional hub for education, healthcare, and commerce in southwestern Minnesota. The city’s location along U.S. Highway 59 and the Interstate 90 corridor has made it a convenient stop for travelers heading to and from the Twin Cities or Sioux Falls. Today, Marshall is known for its blend of historical significance, vibrant community events, and its role as the economic and cultural center of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marshall is served by the Marshall Public School District, which operates Marshall High School, a major educational institution for the city. The district is known for its academic excellence and robust extracurricular programs in athletics, music, and arts. One of the city’s key landmarks is Independence Park, a large public park offering walking trails, picnic areas, and a pond, perfect for outdoor recreation. Marshall is also home to Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU), a public university that provides higher education and contributes to the city’s educational and cultural offerings. The Lyon County Museum is another major attraction, showcasing the area’s history, including its agricultural heritage and the development of the town. Redwood River and the Minnesota River offer opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities, adding to the scenic charm of the area. Additionally, Marshall hosts a variety of community events throughout the year, including the Western Minnesota Steam Threshers Reunion, a festival celebrating Marshall’s agricultural history, steam engines, and old-fashioned farming techniques.
2. Minneota, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.97 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56264
- Latitude: 44.3514° N
- Longitude: 95.9958° W
City Location and History
Minneota is a small town located in Lyon County, approximately 15 miles south of Marshall. It was founded in 1873 and named after the nearby Minneota Creek, which derives its name from the Sioux language, meaning “running water.” The town grew as an agricultural hub, drawing Scandinavian and German immigrants who settled in the area to farm the fertile soil. The construction of railroads in the late 19th century connected Minneota to larger markets, boosting trade and commerce. By the early 20th century, Minneota had become a thriving community with local businesses, schools, and churches. The town has maintained its small-town charm and agricultural heritage, with a focus on farming, particularly corn, soybeans, and livestock. Minneota is known for its strong sense of community, and many of its residents are multi-generational farmers who have deep roots in the area. The town continues to celebrate its agricultural history while also embracing modern opportunities in education, healthcare, and recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Minneota is served by the Minneota Public School District, with Minneota High School offering a comprehensive education for local students. The school is known for its competitive sports teams, including football and basketball, and has a solid academic reputation. A major landmark in Minneota is The Minneota City Park, which features a baseball field, playgrounds, and picnic areas, and serves as the center for community events. The Lyon County Historical Museum in nearby Marshall offers insights into Minneota’s agricultural and pioneer history. Additionally, Minneota is known for the Minneota Viking Statue, a nod to the town’s Scandinavian heritage, and is a key symbol of local pride. The town also hosts the Minneota Summer Festival, a popular annual event featuring a parade, local entertainment, and various family-friendly activities. Residents and visitors enjoy the town’s strong sense of community and its proximity to nature, with several outdoor activities available in the surrounding countryside.
3. Cottonwood, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 0.77 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56229
- Latitude: 44.2994° N
- Longitude: 95.0972° W
City Location and History
Cottonwood is a small city located in the central part of Lyon County, just west of the city of Marshall. The town was established in the late 1800s and was initially an agricultural settlement, named for the abundance of cottonwood trees in the region. Cottonwood grew steadily throughout the 20th century, fueled by the fertile farmland surrounding the town. The construction of railroads in the early 20th century helped Cottonwood expand its agricultural economy and allowed for easier transportation of goods to larger markets. The town has retained its agricultural identity and remains home to a vibrant farming community, with a focus on corn, soybeans, and livestock. Today, Cottonwood serves as a rural retreat for those looking for a quiet lifestyle while still having access to the amenities and services of the nearby city of Marshall.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cottonwood is part of the Lakeview School District, which serves students from several surrounding communities. Lakeview High School, located in Cottonwood, provides a wide variety of academic programs and extracurricular activities, including sports and fine arts. Cottonwood City Park is a major local attraction, offering recreational opportunities such as baseball fields, a playground, and picnic shelters for residents and visitors to enjoy. The Lyon County Historical Museum, located nearby in Marshall, also highlights Cottonwood’s agricultural history. In addition, Cottonwood hosts community events such as the Cottonwood Days festival, which celebrates the town’s heritage with a parade, live music, and family-friendly activities. The town’s small size and tight-knit community make it an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful rural lifestyle, while still being close to the larger cities of Lyon County for employment, education, and services.
4. Balaton, Minnesota
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude & Longitude
- Area: 1.12 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 56115
- Latitude: 44.2269° N
- Longitude: 95.9544° W
City Location and History
Balaton is a small town located in the northeastern corner of Lyon County, Minnesota, along the shore of Lake Balaton. Founded in the late 19th century, the town was named after Balaton, Hungary, a reference to the Hungarian immigrants who settled there. The fertile soil and favorable climate made the area ideal for agriculture, and the town developed as a farming community. Over the years, Balaton’s economy has been focused on agriculture, primarily corn, soybeans, and livestock. The town has maintained a strong connection to its Hungarian roots, and its small size and rural setting have helped it preserve a quiet, community-focused lifestyle. Lake Balaton has also provided recreational opportunities for the residents, including fishing, boating, and swimming. The town continues to celebrate its agricultural past while evolving into a pleasant residential community for those who appreciate rural living with access to the larger cities of southwestern Minnesota.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Balaton is part of the Lakeview School District, and students attend Lakeview High School in nearby Cottonwood. The school is known for its strong academic programs and sports teams. Lake Balaton, a major landmark, offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities, making it a hub for both locals and visitors during the warmer months. The Balaton City Park offers recreational facilities, including a baseball field, a playground, and picnic areas, and hosts various community events throughout the year. Balaton also celebrates its Hungarian heritage with the Balaton Fun Days, an annual festival featuring a parade, traditional foods, and cultural activities that reflect the town’s roots. With its scenic lake, peaceful setting, and close-knit community, Balaton remains a hidden gem in Lyon County.
