Cities and Towns in Montcalm County, Michigan
Founded in 1831, Montcalm County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Montcalm County was formed from part of Mackinac County and unorganized territory. The city of Stanton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Montcalm County has a population of 67,220 and area of 721 square miles (1,867 km²).
List of all cities in Montcalm County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Carson City, MI | 48811 | 989 |
| Cedar Lake, MI | 48812 | 989 |
| Coral, MI | 49322 | 231 |
| Crystal, MI | 48818 | 989 |
| Edmore, MI | 48829 | 989 |
| Fenwick, MI | 48834 | 989 |
| Greenville, MI | 48838 | 231 |
| Howard City, MI | 49329 | 231 |
| Lakeview, MI | 48850 | 989 |
| McBrides, MI | 48852 | 989 |
| Pierson, MI | 49339 | 231 |
| Sheridan, MI | 48884 | 989 |
| Sidney, MI | 48885 | 989 |
| Six Lakes, MI | 48886 | 989 |
| Stanton, MI | 48888 | 989 |
| Trufant, MI | 49347 | 231 |
| Vestaburg, MI | 48891 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Montcalm County, Michigan
Greenville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 6.72 square miles
- Population: 8,481 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48838
- Latitude: 43.1778° N
- Longitude: 85.2528° W
City Location and History
Greenville is located in the southeastern part of Montcalm County and is the largest city in the county. It was founded in 1844 by John Green, who established a sawmill on the Flat River, which runs through the city. Greenville quickly became a hub for logging and agriculture, thriving on the rich natural resources of the surrounding area. By the late 19th century, it also developed a strong manufacturing sector, with the Gibson Refrigerator Company becoming one of its most famous enterprises. Today, Greenville has a diversified economy with a mix of manufacturing, healthcare, and retail, while also serving as a regional center for education and commerce.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Greenville Public Schools serves the community, with Greenville High School being the primary secondary education institution. Key landmarks include Tower Mountain, which offers scenic views of the city and is a popular spot for hiking and sledding. The Flat River Historical Museum chronicles the town’s rich history in logging and industry, while Baldwin Lake provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and picnicking. The Fighting Falcon Military Museum preserves Greenville’s military history. Greenville also hosts the annual Danish Festival, a celebration of its Danish heritage with parades, crafts, and cultural events that attract visitors from across the region.
Stanton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.16 square miles
- Population: 1,517 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48888
- Latitude: 43.2919° N
- Longitude: 85.0803° W
City Location and History
Stanton is the county seat of Montcalm County, located in the central part of the county. It was founded in 1866 and named after Edwin M. Stanton, Abraham Lincoln’s Secretary of War. As the county seat, Stanton quickly became an important administrative and commercial hub for the region. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred its growth, allowing Stanton to develop into a small but thriving community. While logging and agriculture were the mainstays of the local economy in the early days, today Stanton serves as a quiet residential town known for its historic architecture and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stanton is served by Central Montcalm Public Schools, with Central Montcalm High School located just outside the city. Landmarks in Stanton include the Montcalm County Courthouse, an iconic building that stands as a symbol of the city’s status as the county seat. Clifford Lake is a nearby recreational destination, offering boating, fishing, and swimming. Anderson & Girls Orchards, located just outside Stanton, is a popular attraction, offering a petting zoo, farm store, and seasonal events. The Fred Meijer Heartland Trail passes through Stanton, providing opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.
Howard City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.25 square miles
- Population: 1,808 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49329
- Latitude: 43.3964° N
- Longitude: 85.4672° W
City Location and History
Howard City is located in the southern part of Montcalm County, near the border with Newaygo County. Founded in 1868, the village grew rapidly as a result of its location along the Grand Rapids and Indiana Railroad. The town was named after William Howard, an early settler who helped develop the area. During the late 19th century, Howard City prospered as a lumber and agricultural community, with the railroad providing vital connections to larger markets. Today, the village maintains its small-town charm while benefiting from its proximity to larger cities such as Grand Rapids.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Howard City is part of the Tri County Area Schools district, with Tri County High School serving local students. One of the town’s main attractions is the Fred Meijer White Pine Trail, a scenic path for biking and hiking that stretches from Grand Rapids to Cadillac. The village park provides recreational facilities and hosts events such as the annual Harvest Festival, which celebrates Howard City’s agricultural heritage. Nearby Ensley Park offers additional opportunities for outdoor activities, including sports fields and picnic areas. The village’s downtown area is lined with historic buildings, reflecting its rich past as a railroad and farming hub.
Carson City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.48 square miles
- Population: 1,061 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48811
- Latitude: 43.1792° N
- Longitude: 84.8472° W
City Location and History
Carson City is located in the southwestern part of Montcalm County, near the county line with Gratiot County. Founded in 1866, it was named after its founder, Thomas Carson, who established the community as a trading post and sawmill. Carson City grew steadily during the late 19th and early 20th centuries as a result of the surrounding farmland and the development of small manufacturing industries. While it remains a small town, Carson City is known for its rich agricultural tradition and serves as a regional center for healthcare due to the presence of the Carson City Hospital.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Carson City-Crystal Area Schools serves the town, with Carson City-Crystal High School being the main educational institution. The city’s landmarks include Haradine Park, which offers facilities for picnicking, sports, and walking trails. The annual Frontier Days festival is one of the town’s most anticipated events, featuring parades, games, and entertainment for the whole family. Carson City also boasts several historic buildings, including the Carson City United Methodist Church, which dates back to the late 19th century. The town’s surrounding farmland and rural landscape make it an ideal location for those who appreciate a quiet, agricultural lifestyle.
Edmore
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.49 square miles
- Population: 1,172 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48829
- Latitude: 43.4075° N
- Longitude: 85.0386° W
City Location and History
Edmore is located in the western part of Montcalm County and was founded in 1878 by lumberman Edwin B. Moore, from whom the town takes its name. Edmore was originally a hub for the lumber industry, but as the forests were cleared, it transitioned to an agricultural economy. The arrival of the Detroit, Lansing, and Northern Railroad helped spur the town’s development, connecting it to larger cities and markets. Today, Edmore retains its rural character while offering a vibrant local community, with a mix of agriculture, small businesses, and recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Montabella Community Schools serves Edmore, with Montabella Junior/Senior High School located just outside the village. The village is home to the Curtis Memorial Park, a popular location for picnicking, playgrounds, and community events. The annual Potato Festival celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage, with parades, games, and local produce. Edmore’s historic downtown features charming storefronts and local businesses, reflecting the village’s deep roots in the community. The Fred Meijer Heartland Trail runs near Edmore, providing residents and visitors with access to biking, hiking, and outdoor recreation in the surrounding countryside.
Lakeview
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.03 square miles
- Population: 1,007 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48850
- Latitude: 43.4419° N
- Longitude: 85.2742° W
City Location and History
Lakeview is located in the northeastern part of Montcalm County, near Tamarack Lake. Founded in 1867, the village was named for its picturesque views of the lake that sits at the heart of the community. Originally a lumbering settlement, Lakeview transitioned to an agricultural and small manufacturing town as the timber industry declined. Tamarack Lake has played a central role in the town’s history, providing both transportation and recreation. Today, Lakeview is a small yet vibrant community known for its natural beauty and family-friendly atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lakeview Community Schools serves the village, with Lakeview High School being the primary educational institution. Tamarack Lake is the main landmark, offering residents and visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking along its shores. The village’s downtown area features historic buildings, including the Lakeview Hotel, which dates back to the late 19th century. Lakeview hosts an annual Summerfest, featuring parades, games, and live entertainment. The village is also located near the Fred Meijer Flat River Trail, which provides access to outdoor recreation such as biking and hiking through the scenic Montcalm County countryside.
