Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1854, Monroe County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Monroe County was formed from La Crosse County. The city of Sparta is the county seat. With FIPS code of 81, Monroe County has a population of 46,193 and area of 900.78 square miles (2,333 km²).
List of all cities in Monroe County, WI alphabetically
- Cashton, WI
- Cataract, WI
- Kendall, WI
- Norwalk, WI
- Oakdale, WI
- Sparta, WI
- Tomah, WI
- Tunnel City, WI
- Warrens, WI
- Wilton, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Wisconsin
Sparta
- Area: 8.52 square miles
- Population: 9,753 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54656
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.9447° N, 90.8121° W
Location and History
Sparta, the county seat of Monroe County, is located in the southwestern part of the county, along the La Crosse River. The city was founded in 1852 and was named after Sparta, New York, reflecting the influence of early settlers from the eastern United States. Sparta grew rapidly in the late 19th century due to its strategic location along the Milwaukee and La Crosse Railroad, which facilitated trade and transportation. The city became known as the “Bicycling Capital of America” due to its extensive network of bike trails, including the Elroy-Sparta State Trail, which was the first rails-to-trails conversion in the country. Sparta has a rich history tied to agriculture, manufacturing, and transportation, and it continues to thrive as a regional center for commerce and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sparta is served by the Sparta Area School District, with Sparta High School being the primary educational institution. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Deke Slayton Memorial Space and Bicycle Museum, which celebrates the life of astronaut Deke Slayton and highlights Sparta’s bicycling heritage. Another key landmark is the Elroy-Sparta State Trail, a 32-mile-long trail that attracts cyclists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts from across the region. The historic downtown area, with its well-preserved buildings and local businesses, is a focal point for community life. Sparta also hosts the annual Butterfest, a popular festival that includes a parade, carnival, and various family-friendly activities.
Tomah
- Area: 8.04 square miles
- Population: 9,570 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54660
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.9789° N, 90.5046° W
Location and History
Tomah is located in the eastern part of Monroe County, at the intersection of Interstates 90 and 94. The city was founded in 1855 and was named after Chief Tomah, a respected leader of the Ho-Chunk Nation. Tomah’s location at the crossroads of major transportation routes made it an important hub for trade and travel in the region. The city has a rich history connected to agriculture, logging, and later, manufacturing. Tomah has grown into a vibrant community with a diverse economy, including healthcare, retail, and tourism, and it serves as a gateway to the beautiful Cranberry Country region of Wisconsin.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tomah is served by the Tomah Area School District, with Tomah High School being the main educational institution. The city is home to several key landmarks, including the Tomah VA Medical Center, a major healthcare facility that has served veterans since 1898. Another significant site is the Hiawatha Golf Club, one of the oldest golf courses in the state, offering scenic views and challenging play. The annual Tomah Warrens Cranberry Festival is a major event that celebrates the area’s cranberry industry with craft shows, parades, and tours of cranberry marshes. The city’s historic downtown, with its mix of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, adds to Tomah’s charm and appeal as a regional destination.
Cashton
- Area: 1.50 square miles
- Population: 1,102 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54619
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.7394° N, 90.7787° W
Location and History
Cashton is a small village located in the western part of Monroe County, in the heart of the Driftless Area. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after the nearby Cash Valley, which was known for its rich farmland. Cashton developed primarily as an agricultural community, with dairy farming playing a central role in its economy. The village has a strong Amish presence, with many Amish farms and businesses in the surrounding area contributing to its unique cultural landscape. Over the years, Cashton has maintained its small-town character while supporting a diverse and vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cashton is served by the Cashton School District, with Cashton High School being the primary educational institution. The village is known for its connection to the Amish community, and visitors often come to explore the many Amish shops and farms in the area, where they can purchase handmade goods, furniture, and produce. A key landmark in Cashton is the Cashton Memorial Park, which offers facilities for sports, picnicking, and community events. The village also hosts the annual Cashton Fall Festival, a popular event that includes a parade, craft fair, and various family-friendly activities. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and scenic landscapes, provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking, biking, and birdwatching.
Warrens
- Area: 0.85 square miles
- Population: 373 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54666
- Latitude and Longitude: 44.1278° N, 90.5056° W
Location and History
Warrens is a small village located in the northeastern part of Monroe County, in the heart of Wisconsin’s Cranberry Country. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after a local landowner, Solomon Warren. Warrens quickly became known for its cranberry production, with the surrounding wetlands providing ideal conditions for growing cranberries. The village has grown into a center for the cranberry industry, with many local farms contributing to Wisconsin’s status as one of the leading cranberry producers in the world. Warrens is also known for its scenic beauty and its close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Warrens is part of the Tomah Area School District, with students attending schools in nearby Tomah. The village’s key landmark is the Wisconsin Cranberry Discovery Center, a museum and visitor center that offers exhibits on the history and cultivation of cranberries, as well as a store featuring cranberry products. Another significant site is the Three Bears Resort, a family-friendly destination with an indoor water park, hotel, and conference center. The annual Warrens Cranberry Festival, one of the largest festivals in the state, attracts thousands of visitors each year with its craft fair, parade, and tours of cranberry marshes. The surrounding area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the unique cranberry bogs that define the landscape.
Kendall
- Area: 0.82 square miles
- Population: 470 (as of the 2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 54638
- Latitude and Longitude: 43.7911° N, 90.3683° W
Location and History
Kendall is a small village located in the southeastern part of Monroe County, nestled in the scenic hills of the Driftless Area. The village was established in the late 19th century and was named after Amos Kendall, a Postmaster General under President Andrew Jackson. Kendall developed as a farming community, with agriculture being the primary industry. The village’s location along the Chicago and North Western Railway helped support its growth as a local trade center. Today, Kendall is known for its rural charm, historic buildings, and access to outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kendall is part of the Royall School District, with students attending Royall High School in nearby Elroy. The village’s key landmarks include the Kendall Depot, a historic train depot that has been preserved as a museum and community center. Another significant site is the Elroy-Sparta State Trail, which passes through Kendall and offers opportunities for biking, hiking, and snowmobiling. The trail is known for its scenic tunnels and beautiful landscapes, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Kendall also hosts the annual Kendall Fun Daze, a community event that features a parade, live music, and various activities for families. The village’s historic downtown, with its well-preserved buildings and local businesses, adds to Kendall’s appeal as a charming and welcoming community.