Cities and Towns in Murray County, Minnesota
Founded in 1857, Murray County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Murray County was formed from Brown County. The city of Slayton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Murray County has a population of 8,144 and area of 704.43 square miles (1,824 km²).
List of all cities in Murray County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Avoca, MN | 56114 | 507 |
| Chandler, MN | 56122 | 507 |
| Currie, MN | 56123 | 507 |
| Dovray, MN | 56125 | 507 |
| Dundee, MN | 56131 | 507 |
| Fulda, MN | 56131 | 507 |
| Hadley, MN | 56151 | 507 |
| Iona, MN | 56141 | 507 |
| Lake Wilson, MN | 56151 | 507 |
| Slayton, MN | 56172 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Murray County, Minnesota
1. Slayton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.32 square miles
- Population: 2,000 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56172
- Latitude: 43.9946° N
- Longitude: 95.7461° W
City Location and History:
Slayton is the county seat of Murray County and is located in the southwestern part of Minnesota, near the intersection of U.S. Highway 59 and Minnesota Highway 30. The town was founded in 1872 and named after its first settler, William Slayton. Originally, the area was home to indigenous Sioux tribes, and European settlers arrived in the mid-19th century to establish a community based on agriculture. As a hub for surrounding rural farming communities, Slayton grew steadily over the years. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped Slayton become a more prominent regional center, facilitating the transportation of agricultural products like corn, soybeans, and livestock. In the early 20th century, Slayton became a commercial and administrative center for the county. Today, Slayton retains its small-town charm while being the economic and cultural heart of Murray County. While it remains largely dependent on agriculture, it has also developed a more diversified economy, with retail and services playing an increasingly important role in the town’s growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Slayton is part of the Murray County Central School District, which includes the Murray County Central High School, as well as elementary and middle schools. The city is also home to the Slayton Public Library, a valuable resource for education and community engagement. Notable landmarks in Slayton include the Murray County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of local government. The city also has several parks and recreational areas, including the Slayton City Park, which features picnic areas, sports fields, and a swimming pool. The Slayton Depot, a former railroad station now preserved as a museum, highlights the town’s history and connection to the railroad. Residents and visitors alike can enjoy the annual Slayton Summer Celebration, which features a parade, live music, and other family-friendly activities. The town’s commitment to preserving its agricultural roots while offering modern amenities makes it an attractive place to live and visit.
2. Fulda
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.87 square miles
- Population: 1,400 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56131
- Latitude: 43.7161° N
- Longitude: 95.4107° W
City Location and History:
Fulda is a small city located in the southeastern corner of Murray County, about 20 miles south of Slayton. It was established in 1871 and named after Fulda, Germany, in honor of early settlers from that region. Like many communities in southwestern Minnesota, Fulda’s economy has historically been based on agriculture. The city’s development accelerated in the late 19th century with the arrival of the railroad, which made it easier to transport agricultural products like grains and livestock to larger markets. Fulda quickly became an agricultural hub, attracting a mix of German, Scandinavian, and Dutch immigrants who established farms and businesses in the area. As the population grew, Fulda became known for its strong sense of community and active local organizations. Over the years, the town has remained relatively small but steady, and while agriculture continues to be important, Fulda has seen some diversification in its economy. The city maintains its rural charm and agricultural ties, while also benefiting from its proximity to larger communities like Worthington and Mankato.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Fulda is served by the Fulda Public Schools district, which includes Fulda High School and the Fulda Elementary School. The district offers a range of educational programs and extracurricular activities, making it an important institution in the community. Fulda is also home to the Fulda Public Library, which serves as an educational and community gathering space. Key landmarks in Fulda include the historic Fulda Depot, a former railroad station that has been preserved as a local museum. The city also has several parks, including the Fulda City Park, which features walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. Residents of Fulda celebrate local culture with events like the annual Fulda Harvest Festival, which includes a parade, carnival, and live entertainment. The city is also home to a number of churches, reflecting its strong religious and community-based heritage. Fulda’s rural atmosphere, combined with its community spirit and accessibility to surrounding towns, makes it an attractive location for residents and visitors.
3. Iona
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: 100 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56141
- Latitude: 43.8842° N
- Longitude: 95.9024° W
City Location and History:
Iona is a small town located in the northeastern part of Murray County, about 20 miles north of Slayton. Iona was founded in the late 19th century, around the 1880s, and its early growth was driven by the surrounding agricultural economy. Like many small towns in southwestern Minnesota, Iona was initially established as a railroad stop to facilitate the transport of farm goods, particularly grain, to markets. The town grew modestly, with families establishing farms and local businesses to support the surrounding rural community. However, Iona’s small population and relatively remote location meant that it remained a quiet and peaceful town, with minimal urban development. Over the years, as larger towns and cities in the area grew, Iona experienced a gradual population decline. Despite this, it remains a picturesque, tight-knit community that values its history and agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
As a small town, Iona does not have its own public schools. Children living in Iona typically attend schools in the neighboring town of Slayton or Fulda, both of which are part of larger school districts. The community is also served by local churches and community groups, which offer educational and social programs. One of Iona’s key landmarks is the Iona Lutheran Church, which has served as a religious and social center for the community since its founding. The town’s rural charm is highlighted by its scenic farmlands, open spaces, and proximity to natural areas like the nearby Des Moines River. Although Iona does not have many formal landmarks, its tranquil environment and close-knit community provide a sense of peace and simplicity for its residents. The town’s rural location makes it an ideal place for those looking to live away from larger urban areas but still within driving distance of nearby towns like Slayton and Worthington.
4. Chandler
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.47 square miles
- Population: 300 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56122
- Latitude: 43.8181° N
- Longitude: 95.7143° W
City Location and History:
Chandler is a small town located in the southwestern part of Murray County, approximately 10 miles southwest of Slayton. Established in 1882, Chandler was originally built as a railroad stop along the Chicago, St. Paul, Minneapolis, and Omaha Railway. The town was named after its first postmaster, who named it after Chandler, New Jersey. Like many towns in southwestern Minnesota, Chandler’s early economy was primarily based on agriculture. With its location on the railroad, Chandler became a key center for grain storage and distribution. The arrival of the railroad facilitated growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, bringing new settlers to the area. As the years passed, Chandler grew into a quiet, rural community that remains a hub for local agriculture and small businesses. Although it has faced population decline over the years, Chandler continues to be a close-knit town with a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Chandler is served by the Murray County Central School District, with children attending schools in nearby Slayton or Fulda. Despite its small size, Chandler offers several community amenities, including the Chandler Community Center, which hosts events and gatherings. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Chandler Elevator, a historic grain elevator that reflects the area’s deep agricultural roots. Chandler also hosts several parks and open spaces, making it an ideal spot for outdoor recreation. The town’s annual events, including the Chandler Days celebration, bring residents together for a parade, games, and live entertainment. Chandler’s rural atmosphere, combined with its proximity to larger towns like Slayton, makes it an appealing place to live for those seeking a peaceful, country lifestyle.
5. Currie
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.35 square miles
- Population: 200 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56123
- Latitude: 43.9307° N
- Longitude: 95.7796° W
City Location and History:
Currie is a small town located in the western part of Murray County, approximately 12 miles southeast of Slayton. It was established in the early 1900s and named after a prominent local family. The town’s development was primarily tied to the surrounding agricultural region, with farms producing crops such as corn, wheat, and soybeans. Much like other small towns in southwestern Minnesota, Currie grew as a railroad stop for the transportation of agricultural products. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century boosted the town’s economy, but as rail transportation declined, so did the town’s growth. Today, Currie remains a quiet and rural community that reflects the region’s agricultural roots and traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Currie is part of the Murray County Central School District, with students attending nearby schools in Slayton. The town also has a number of community-based organizations, such as local churches and service groups, that help provide social and educational opportunities for residents. Currie’s main landmark is the Currie Memorial Park, a small public park offering open spaces and picnic areas for residents to gather and enjoy outdoor activities. The town’s agricultural landscape, with its surrounding fields and farms, is a key part of the town’s identity. Currie may not have many large-scale landmarks, but its rural charm and close-knit community make it a peaceful and inviting place to live.
