Cities and Towns in McHenry County, Illinois

Founded in 1836, McHenry County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, McHenry County was formed from Cook and LaSalle County. The city of Woodstock is the county seat. With FIPS code of 111, McHenry County has a population of 311,122 and area of 603 square miles (1,562 km²).

List of all cities in McHenry County, IL alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Alden, IL 60001 815/779
60033 815/779
Algonquin, IL 60102 847/224
60156 847/224
Barrington Hills, IL 60021 847/224
60102 847/224
Bull Valley, IL 60012 815/779
60050 815/779
60097 815/779
60098 815/779
Cary, IL 60013 847/224
Chemung, IL 60033 815/779
Coral, IL 60152 815/779
Crystal Lake, IL 60012 815/779
60014 815/779
60039 815/779
Fox River Grove, IL 60021 847/224
Greenwood, IL 60098 815/779
Harvard, IL 60033 815/779
Hebron, IL 60034 815/779
Holiday Hills, IL 60050 815/779
60051 815/779
Huntley, IL 60142 847/224
Johnsburg, IL 60050 815/779
60051 815/779
Lake in the Hills, IL 60102 847/224
60156 847/224
Lakemoor, IL 60050 815/779
60051 815/779
Lakewood, IL 60014 815/779
Marengo, IL 60152 815/779
McCullom Lake, IL 60050 815/779
McHenry, IL 60050 815/779
60051 815/779
Oakwood Hills, IL 60013 847/224
Prairie Grove, IL 60012 815/779
60050 815/779
Richmond, IL 60071 815/779
Ridgefield, IL 60012 815/779
Ringwood, IL 60072 815/779
Solon Mills, IL 60071 815/779
Spring Grove, IL 60081 815/779
Sunnyside, IL 60050 815/779
Trout Valley, IL 60013 847/224
Union, IL 60180 815/779
Village of Lakewood, IL 60014 815/779
Volo, IL 60051 815/779
Wonder Lake, IL 60097 815/779
Woodstock, IL 60098 815/779

Major Cities and Towns in McHenry County, Illinois

Crystal Lake

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates:

  • Area: 20.13 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 40,500
  • Zip Codes: 60012, 60014, 60039
  • Latitude: 42.2411° N
  • Longitude: 88.3162° W

Location and History:

Crystal Lake is located in the southeastern part of McHenry County, about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. The city is named after the nearby Crystal Lake, a prominent natural feature. Settlers arrived in the 1830s, drawn by the area’s rich farmland and access to water. Crystal Lake grew as a summer resort town in the late 19th century, as Chicago residents sought leisure in its scenic environment. Over time, the town expanded into a thriving suburban community, with both residential and commercial developments. Today, Crystal Lake maintains a balance between its natural beauty and suburban conveniences, making it one of the most popular cities in McHenry County.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Crystal Lake is served by two school districts: Crystal Lake Community Consolidated School District 47 and Community High School District 155, with Crystal Lake Central High School and Prairie Ridge High School among its top schools. The city boasts several landmarks, including Three Oaks Recreation Area, a former quarry turned into a recreational site offering boating, fishing, and hiking. The historic Dole Mansion, which dates back to the 1860s, is another cultural gem, hosting events and art programs. Downtown Crystal Lake is a lively area with boutiques, restaurants, and the Raue Center for the Arts, a hub for live performances and cultural events.


Woodstock

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates:

  • Area: 13.49 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 25,000
  • Zip Codes: 60098
  • Latitude: 42.3147° N
  • Longitude: 88.4481° W

Location and History:

Woodstock is located in the heart of McHenry County, approximately 60 miles northwest of Chicago. The city was founded in 1852 and quickly became a regional center due to its location along the Chicago & North Western Railway. Known for its charming historic square, Woodstock is best recognized for its role in the 1993 film Groundhog Day, which was filmed there. The Woodstock Opera House, built in 1889, became a cultural hub for the region and was once frequented by famous figures such as Orson Welles and Paul Newman. Today, Woodstock retains its historic charm while serving as a growing suburban community with access to Chicago.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Woodstock is served by Woodstock Community Unit School District 200, with Woodstock High School and Woodstock North High School being the main educational institutions. The city’s historic downtown square is a designated Historic District, with landmarks like the Woodstock Opera House and the Old McHenry County Courthouse, both dating back to the 19th century. Woodstock Square hosts numerous events, including farmers’ markets and the annual Groundhog Days festival. Emricson Park provides recreational facilities, including sports fields, playgrounds, and a pool, making it a popular spot for residents.


McHenry

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates:

  • Area: 15.17 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 27,000
  • Zip Codes: 60050, 60051
  • Latitude: 42.3334° N
  • Longitude: 88.2668° W

Location and History:

McHenry is located along the Fox River in northeastern McHenry County, about 50 miles northwest of Chicago. Established in the mid-19th century, McHenry originally served as a trading post for settlers and Native Americans. Its location along the Fox River made it an important stop for river traffic and later for the railroads. As the city grew, it became known for its rich agricultural base and recreational opportunities along the river. Today, McHenry is a mix of residential, industrial, and recreational areas, with its scenic riverfront attracting both visitors and residents seeking outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

McHenry Community High School District 156 serves the city with McHenry East and McHenry West High Schools. Notable landmarks include Petersen Park, which offers access to McCullom Lake and features sports fields, picnic areas, and hiking trails. Moraine Hills State Park, located nearby, provides additional opportunities for hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. The McHenry Riverwalk, a scenic trail along the Fox River, is a popular destination, as is the McHenry Outdoor Theater, one of the few remaining drive-in theaters in the region, offering a nostalgic entertainment experience.


Huntley

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates:

  • Area: 14.03 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 27,500
  • Zip Codes: 60142
  • Latitude: 42.1689° N
  • Longitude: 88.4286° W

Location and History:

Huntley is located in the southern part of McHenry County, stretching into neighboring Kane County. Founded in 1851 by Thomas Stillwell Huntley, the village grew slowly as an agricultural community. Its rural setting and open spaces attracted residents seeking a quieter lifestyle. In the late 1990s and early 2000s, Huntley experienced rapid growth due to suburban expansion from Chicago and the development of Sun City Huntley, a large retirement community. Despite this growth, Huntley has worked to maintain its small-town charm, preserving much of its historic downtown while developing new residential and commercial areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Huntley Community School District 158 provides education for local students, with Huntley High School being the primary high school in the area. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is Sun City Huntley, a large 55+ active adult community that offers residents a wide range of amenities, including golf courses, pools, and fitness centers. The town also features the Huntley Area Public Library, offering educational resources and community programs. Downtown Huntley is home to several historic buildings, and the Huntley Farmers’ Market is a popular event for residents, offering fresh local produce and artisanal goods.


Algonquin

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates:

  • Area: 12.52 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 30,700
  • Zip Codes: 60102
  • Latitude: 42.1656° N
  • Longitude: 88.2945° W

Location and History:

Algonquin spans both McHenry and Kane counties, situated along the Fox River in northeastern Illinois. First settled in 1834, Algonquin began as a river town and a hub for regional trade and agriculture. The town experienced significant growth in the late 20th century, transforming from a small village into a bustling suburban community. Its location along major highways, including Route 31 and Interstate 90, has made it an attractive location for commuters to Chicago and nearby suburbs. Despite its suburban development, Algonquin retains its historic downtown area along the river, offering a blend of modern amenities and historical charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Algonquin is served by Community Unit School District 300, with Jacobs High School being the main high school for local students. The Fox River provides recreational opportunities, with the Algonquin Riverfront Park offering boat launches, picnic areas, and walking trails. Algonquin Commons, an open-air shopping mall, is a major retail hub in the area. The village also boasts several parks, including Towne Park and Cornish Park, which feature scenic views of the Fox River. The Algonquin Historic Village Hall, built in 1907, remains a key landmark and hosts community events throughout the year.


Cary

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates:

  • Area: 6.36 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 18,100
  • Zip Codes: 60013
  • Latitude: 42.2136° N
  • Longitude: 88.2383° W

Location and History:

Cary is located in southeastern McHenry County, along the Fox River, about 45 miles northwest of Chicago. The town was founded in 1833 by William Cary, and it grew as a farming community. The extension of the Chicago and North Western Railway to Cary in the 1850s helped fuel its growth as a commuter town for Chicago workers. Cary has since developed into a suburban community with a blend of residential neighborhoods, small businesses, and recreational areas, while retaining much of its natural beauty along the river.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Cary is part of Cary Community Consolidated School District 26, with Cary-Grove High School serving local students. Major landmarks include the Cary Park District, which operates multiple parks and recreational facilities, including the popular Kaper Park and Lions Park, both of which offer playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The Foxford Hills Golf Club is a notable attraction for golf enthusiasts. Cary’s downtown area offers a mix of historic buildings and local businesses, providing a small-town feel while still offering modern conveniences. The annual Cary Main Street Fest brings together residents for food, music, and entertainment.