Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Illinois
Founded in 1816, Monroe County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Monroe County was formed from Randolph County and St. Clair County. The city of Waterloo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 133, Monroe County has a population of 34,932 and area of 385 square miles (997 km²).
List of all cities in Monroe County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Burksville, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Chaflin Bridge, IL | 62244 | 618/730 |
| Columbia, IL | 62236 | 618/730 |
| Floraville, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Foster Pond, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Fountain, IL | 62295 | 618/730 |
| Fults, IL | 62244 | 618/730 |
| Harrisonville, IL | 62295 | 618/730 |
| Hecker, IL | 62248 | 618/730 |
| Lou del, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Madonnaville, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Maeystown, IL | 62256 | 618/730 |
| Merrimac, IL | 62295 | 618/730 |
| Monroe City, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| New Hanover, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Paderborn, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Renault, IL | 62279 | 618/730 |
| Saint Joe, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Tipton, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Valmeyer, IL | 62295 | 618/730 |
| Wartburg, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
| Waterloo, IL | 62298 | 618/730 |
Major Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Illinois
Waterloo, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 8.28 square miles
- Population: Approximately 11,013 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 62298
- Latitude: 38.3367° N
- Longitude: 90.1498° W
Location and History
Waterloo, the county seat of Monroe County, is located about 25 miles southeast of St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in the late 18th century, Waterloo has a rich history rooted in French and German immigration. The town was officially established in 1818 and became an important stop for settlers moving westward. Agriculture played a major role in its early development, and the town’s fertile land contributed to its growth. Waterloo’s historic downtown area reflects its past, with buildings dating back to the 19th century. As the town grew, its proximity to St. Louis made it a desirable location for commuters, and today it is a vibrant blend of historical charm and modern living.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waterloo is served by the Waterloo Community Unit School District 5, which includes Waterloo High School, Waterloo Junior High School, and several elementary schools. The town boasts numerous landmarks, such as the Monroe County Courthouse, a beautiful historic building in the heart of downtown. Another key attraction is the Peterstown House, an 1830s stone structure that once served as a stagecoach stop. Waterloo is also home to parks like Konarcik Park, providing outdoor recreational opportunities, and the annual Porta Westfalica Festival, celebrating the town’s German heritage with food, music, and cultural events.
Columbia, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 10.40 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,999 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 62236
- Latitude: 38.4437° N
- Longitude: 90.2034° W
Location and History
Columbia is located in the northwestern part of Monroe County, just 12 miles south of downtown St. Louis, making it a popular suburb for commuters. The city was settled in the early 1800s, with many German immigrants arriving during the mid-19th century. Columbia was officially incorporated in 1859 and developed as an agricultural and industrial town, benefiting from its proximity to the Mississippi River. The town has grown steadily over the years, blending its historic roots with modern suburban development. Today, Columbia retains much of its German heritage, evident in its festivals, architecture, and local culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Columbia is part of the Columbia Community Unit School District 4, with Columbia High School and Columbia Middle School serving the community. Landmarks in Columbia include the historic Turner Hall, a cultural center built in 1867 by German immigrants, which is now used for community events. Bolm-Schuhkraft Memorial City Park offers recreational opportunities and is a favorite for local families. Another notable site is the Monroe County Welcome Center and History Museum, where visitors can learn about the area’s rich history. Columbia’s annual FestiFall and Strassenfest are two major events celebrating the town’s German heritage with music, food, and entertainment.
Valmeyer, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 3.16 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,263 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 62295
- Latitude: 38.3053° N
- Longitude: 90.3112° W
Location and History
Valmeyer is located along the Mississippi River in southwestern Monroe County, about 30 miles south of St. Louis. The original village of Valmeyer, founded in the mid-19th century, was severely impacted by the Great Flood of 1993. In response, the town was relocated to higher ground on a nearby bluff, making it one of the few modern examples of a planned relocation. The new Valmeyer was completed by 1996, with modern infrastructure while preserving the close-knit community spirit of the original town. Valmeyer has a rich history tied to river trade and agriculture, and its story of relocation has made it a symbol of resilience.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Valmeyer Community Unit School District 3 serves the educational needs of the town, with Valmeyer High School and Valmeyer Junior High School as key institutions. Landmarks in Valmeyer include the Salt Lick Point Land and Water Reserve, which offers hiking trails and scenic views of the Mississippi River floodplain. The Valmeyer Community Heritage Society preserves artifacts from the town’s past, including its relocation. The annual Valmeyer Mid-Summer Celebration is a highlight of the town’s social calendar, featuring a parade, live music, and fireworks, celebrating the spirit and unity of this resilient community.
Maeystown, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.16 square miles
- Population: Approximately 157 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 62256
- Latitude: 38.2259° N
- Longitude: 90.2307° W
Location and History
Maeystown is a small, historic village located in the southwestern part of Monroe County, nestled in a picturesque valley near the Mississippi River. Founded in 1852 by German immigrant Jacob Maeys, the town was originally a center for German settlers, and much of its early architecture and culture reflect these roots. Maeystown grew slowly, maintaining its rural charm and traditional German character. Today, the entire village is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, with many original stone and brick buildings still standing. Maeystown is known for its scenic beauty, historic preservation, and quiet, small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Maeystown is part of the Waterloo School District, though it does not have its own schools. The village’s landmarks include the Maeystown Historic District, where visitors can explore well-preserved 19th-century structures like the old stone bridge and the Maeystown General Store. The town is also home to the Maeystown Preservation Society Museum, which offers exhibits on the town’s German heritage and history. Maeystown hosts several annual events, including Oktoberfest and the Old-Fashioned German Christmas, both of which celebrate the town’s cultural roots with traditional music, food, and crafts.
Hecker, Illinois
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.30 square miles
- Population: Approximately 450 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 62248
- Latitude: 38.3054° N
- Longitude: 89.9945° W
Location and History
Hecker is a small village located in the northeastern part of Monroe County, near the St. Clair County border. The village was founded in the mid-19th century and was originally named Freedom. In 1895, the town was renamed Hecker, in honor of German revolutionary Friedrich Hecker, who had emigrated to Illinois. Hecker’s growth has been modest, with agriculture serving as the foundation of its economy. The village maintains a rural charm and a strong sense of community, with local traditions passed down through generations. Its proximity to Belleville and St. Louis offers residents easy access to larger cities while preserving a quiet, country lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hecker is part of the Waterloo School District, with schools located in nearby towns. The village’s main landmarks include St. Augustine Catholic Church, which has been a focal point of community life since its construction in 1892. The Hecker Community Center is another important gathering place for local events and celebrations. Each year, Hecker hosts the Hecker Community Picnic, a local tradition featuring food, games, and music that brings together residents and visitors to celebrate the village’s heritage and community spirit.
