Cities and Towns in Madera County, California
Founded in 1893, Madera County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Madera County was formed from Fresno. The city of Madera is the county seat. With FIPS code of 39, Madera County has a population of 159,410 and area of 2,138 square miles (5,537 km²).
List of all cities in Madera County, CA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ahwahnee, CA | 93601 | 559 |
| Bass Lake, CA | 93604 | 559 |
| 93669 | 559 | |
| Berenda, CA | 93637 | 559 |
| Chowchilla, CA | 93610 | 559 |
| Coarsegold, CA | 93614 | 559 |
| Fairmead, CA | 93610 | 559 |
| Madera, CA | 93636 | 559 |
| 93637 | 559 | |
| 93638 | 559 | |
| 93639 | 559 | |
| Nipinnawassee, CA | 93601 | 559 |
| North Fork, CA | 93643 | 559 |
| O Neals, CA | 93645 | 559 |
| Oakhurst, CA | 93644 | 559 |
| Raymond, CA | 93653 | 559 |
| Sharon, CA | 93610 | 559 |
| Wishon, CA | 93669 | 559 |
Major Cities and Towns in Madera County, California
Madera
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 15.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 66,224 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 93636, 93637, 93638, 93639
- Latitude: 36.9613° N
- Longitude: 120.0607° W
Location and History
Madera is the county seat and largest city in Madera County, located in the heart of California’s San Joaquin Valley. The city was founded in 1876 as a station for the Central Pacific Railroad and quickly developed as a key hub for the lumber and agricultural industries. The name “Madera” means “wood” in Spanish, reflecting the city’s origins as a center for logging operations, where timber was floated down the Fresno River to be loaded onto trains. Over the years, Madera transitioned from a lumber town to a predominantly agricultural community, with a focus on crops such as grapes, almonds, and pistachios. The city’s strategic location along State Route 99 has contributed to its growth as a transportation and commercial center in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Madera is served by the Madera Unified School District, with Madera High School, Madera South High School, and Matilda Torres High School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks in Madera include the historic Madera County Courthouse, which now serves as a museum showcasing the history and culture of the region, and the Madera District Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Madera District Fair and other community events. The nearby Fresno River and Madera River Trail offer opportunities for outdoor recreation, including walking, biking, and birdwatching. Madera’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and agricultural roots make it the central city in Madera County.
Chowchilla
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 11.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 19,039 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 93610
- Latitude: 37.1238° N
- Longitude: 120.2605° W
Location and History
Chowchilla is a city located in the western part of Madera County, along State Route 99. The city was founded in 1912 by O. A. Robertson, who named it after the Chowchilla Native American tribe that once inhabited the area. Chowchilla began as an agricultural community, with its economy centered on farming, ranching, and dairy production. The city is known for its strong agricultural heritage, with large tracts of farmland surrounding the town. Over the years, Chowchilla has maintained its rural character while developing as a close-knit community with a focus on family and tradition. The city is also known for the infamous Chowchilla bus kidnapping in 1976, which brought national attention to the town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chowchilla is served by the Chowchilla Elementary School District and the Chowchilla Union High School District, with Chowchilla High School and Wilson Middle School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks in Chowchilla include the Fossil Discovery Center of Madera County, which showcases prehistoric fossils found in the area, and the Chowchilla Fairgrounds, home to the annual Chowchilla Western Stampede, a popular rodeo event that celebrates the city’s Western heritage. The nearby Pheasant Run Golf Course offers recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Chowchilla’s combination of agricultural significance, educational institutions, and community events make it an important city in Madera County.
Oakhurst
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 6.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,829 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 93644
- Latitude: 37.3274° N
- Longitude: 119.6496° W
Location and History
Oakhurst is a small community located in the Sierra Nevada foothills, in the eastern part of Madera County. Originally known as Fresno Flats, the town was established in the mid-19th century as a supply center for miners during the California Gold Rush. The name was later changed to Oakhurst to reflect the abundance of oak trees in the area. Oakhurst developed as a gateway to Yosemite National Park, with its location along State Route 41 making it a key stop for tourists heading to the park. The town has a rich history tied to the early days of California’s settlement and has evolved into a charming mountain community with a focus on tourism and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oakhurst is served by the Yosemite Unified School District, with Yosemite High School and Oak Creek Intermediate School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks in Oakhurst include the Sierra Mono Museum, which preserves the history and culture of the Mono Native American tribe, and the Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park, which features preserved 19th-century buildings and artifacts. The nearby Bass Lake offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Oakhurst’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and proximity to Yosemite National Park make it an important community in Madera County.
Coarsegold
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 11.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,840 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 93614
- Latitude: 37.2636° N
- Longitude: 119.7010° W
Location and History
Coarsegold is a small, unincorporated community located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada, along State Route 41. The town was originally known as Coarse Gold Gulch, named after the large gold nuggets found in the area during the California Gold Rush. Coarsegold developed as a mining town in the mid-19th century, attracting prospectors and settlers looking to strike it rich. Although the gold boom eventually subsided, the town remained an important stop for travelers heading to Yosemite National Park. Today, Coarsegold is a rural community with a rich history tied to California’s gold mining era, offering a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Coarsegold is served by the Yosemite Unified School District, with Coarsegold Elementary School being the primary educational institution. Major landmarks in Coarsegold include the Coarsegold Historic Village, which features shops, restaurants, and annual events such as the Coarsegold Tarantula Festival, celebrating the town’s unique wildlife. The nearby Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino is a popular destination for entertainment and gaming, offering a range of amenities and services. The Sierra National Forest, which surrounds the community, provides opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the scenic landscapes of the Sierra Nevada. Coarsegold’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and rural charm make it an important community in Madera County.
North Fork
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 32.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,458 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 93643
- Latitude: 37.2236° N
- Longitude: 119.5129° W
Location and History
North Fork is a small, unincorporated community located in the Sierra Nevada mountains, near the geographic center of California. The town was established in the late 19th century as a logging and sawmill town, with its economy based on the timber industry. North Fork is named after its location along the North Fork of the San Joaquin River. The town has a rich history tied to the logging industry, which played a central role in the development of the region. Today, North Fork is known for its strong Native American heritage, with the North Fork Rancheria of Mono Indians being an integral part of the community. The town serves as a gateway to the Sierra National Forest and offers a tranquil mountain lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
North Fork is served by the Chawanakee Unified School District, with North Fork Elementary School and Mountain Oaks High School being the primary educational institutions. Major landmarks in North Fork include the Sierra Mono Museum, which preserves the culture and history of the Mono people, and the North Fork Historic Logging Museum, which showcases the town’s logging heritage. The nearby Sierra Vista Scenic Byway offers stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains and access to hiking, camping, and outdoor recreation. North Fork’s combination of historical significance, educational institutions, and cultural heritage make it an important community in Madera County.
Map of Cities in Madera County, CA
