Cities and Towns in Muscatine County, Iowa

Founded on Dec 7, 1836, Muscatine County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Muscatine County was formed from Des Moines County. The city of Muscatine is the county seat. With FIPS code of 139, Muscatine County has a population of 42,688 and area of 439 square miles (1,137 km²).

List of all cities in Muscatine County, IA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Atalissa, IA 52720 563
Centerdale, IA 52776 319
Conesville, IA 52739 319
Fruitland, IA 52749 563
Lime City, IA 52778 563
Montpelier, IA 52759 563
Moscow, IA 52760 563
Muscatine, IA 52761 563
Nichols, IA 52766 319
Stockton, IA 52769 563
Welton, IA 52774 563
West Liberty, IA 52776 319
Wilton, IA 52778 563

Major Cities and Towns in Muscatine County, Iowa

Muscatine

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 18.35 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 23,000 (as of 2023)
  • Zip Codes: 52761
  • Latitude: 41.4245° N
  • Longitude: 91.0440° W

City Location and History

Muscatine, the county seat of Muscatine County, is located along the banks of the Mississippi River in southeastern Iowa. Established in 1833, Muscatine’s early development was driven by its prime location along the river, which made it a key trading and transportation hub. Initially known as Bloomington, the city was renamed Muscatine in 1849, a name thought to have originated from a Native American tribe or an island in the Mississippi River. Muscatine became famous in the 19th century for its pearl button industry, earning the nickname “Pearl Button Capital of the World.” Over time, the city’s economy diversified into manufacturing, agriculture, and more recently, healthcare and education.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Muscatine is served by the Muscatine Community School District, with Muscatine High School being the largest school in the city. The city is home to several landmarks, including the historic Muscatine Art Center, which houses art and artifacts from the region, and the Pearl Button Museum, which celebrates the city’s industrial past. The Muscatine Riverfront offers parks, walking trails, and scenic views of the Mississippi River. The Muscatine Arboretum and Weed Park provide additional recreational spaces. Muscatine’s vibrant downtown area features historic architecture, local shops, and restaurants, making it a cultural hub for the region.

West Liberty

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 2.15 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,800 (as of 2023)
  • Zip Codes: 52776
  • Latitude: 41.5717° N
  • Longitude: 91.2617° W

City Location and History

West Liberty is located in the eastern part of Muscatine County, along U.S. Highway 6 and the Iowa Interstate Railroad. Founded in 1838, it is one of Iowa’s oldest communities. The town was originally a stagecoach stop and later grew as a significant railroad hub, which attracted settlers and businesses. West Liberty is known for its agricultural roots, with the surrounding area dedicated to farming and livestock production. Over the years, the town has retained its small-town charm while welcoming a diverse population, including a significant Hispanic community, which has added to the town’s cultural richness.

Major Schools and Landmarks

West Liberty is served by the West Liberty Community School District, with West Liberty High School playing a central role in local education. The town is home to the historic West Liberty Depot, a restored train station that now serves as a museum showcasing the town’s railroad history. Other landmarks include the West Liberty Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Muscatine County Fair, featuring livestock shows, carnival rides, and entertainment. The town’s vibrant Hispanic community celebrates its culture with festivals such as the Fiesta West Liberty, which includes traditional music, dance, and food, highlighting the town’s multicultural heritage.

Wilton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 2.19 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,900 (as of 2023)
  • Zip Codes: 52778
  • Latitude: 41.5889° N
  • Longitude: 91.0144° W

City Location and History

Wilton is located in the northern part of Muscatine County, near the Cedar and Iowa Rivers. Founded in 1855, the town was originally known as Wilton Junction due to its location at the junction of the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad lines. Wilton grew as an agricultural community, with the railroad playing a crucial role in transporting local farm products to larger markets. Today, Wilton continues to be a small, close-knit town with a strong agricultural base, complemented by local businesses and industries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wilton is part of the Wilton Community School District, with Wilton High School serving the local student population. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the Wilton Candy Kitchen, established in 1860 and known as the oldest soda fountain in America. The historic downtown area of Wilton also features several well-preserved 19th-century buildings, contributing to the town’s nostalgic charm. Each summer, the Wilton Founder’s Day celebration draws residents and visitors for parades, live music, and food vendors, creating a strong sense of community pride.

Durant

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.61 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,800 (as of 2023)
  • Zip Codes: 52747
  • Latitude: 41.6003° N
  • Longitude: 90.9106° W

City Location and History

Durant is located in the far northeastern part of Muscatine County and extends into Cedar and Scott Counties. Established in 1854, the town was named after Thomas C. Durant, a key figure in the construction of the Union Pacific Railroad. The town’s location along the railroad helped it grow as a farming community, with agriculture remaining central to the local economy. Durant’s early history is closely linked to the expansion of the railroad in the Midwest, which facilitated trade and transportation in the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Durant is served by the Durant Community School District, with Durant High School being the primary educational institution. A key landmark in the town is the Durant Community Center, which hosts events and gatherings throughout the year. The city park provides green spaces, playgrounds, and picnic areas for residents and visitors. Durant also celebrates its agricultural heritage with the annual Durant Harvest Festival, featuring a parade, craft vendors, and family-friendly activities. The town’s rural atmosphere, combined with its proximity to larger cities, makes it an attractive location for families seeking a quiet community.

Nichols

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.20 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 370 (as of 2023)
  • Zip Code: 52766
  • Latitude: 41.4792° N
  • Longitude: 91.3097° W

City Location and History

Nichols is a small town located in the southeastern part of Muscatine County. It was founded in the mid-19th century and named after Samuel Nichols, an early settler and landowner. The town developed primarily as an agricultural community, with its location near the Iowa River making it a favorable spot for farming. Over the years, Nichols has maintained its small-town character, with agriculture continuing to play a significant role in the local economy. The town is known for its peaceful, rural setting and close-knit community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Nichols is part of the West Liberty Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby West Liberty. One of the town’s key landmarks is the Nichols Town Hall, which serves as a venue for local meetings and events. Nichols City Park offers green space and a playground for residents. The town’s annual community events, such as the Nichols Days celebration, feature parades, local food vendors, and family activities, highlighting the strong sense of community in this small agricultural town. Despite its size, Nichols remains a vibrant and welcoming community.

Conesville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.40 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 420 (as of 2023)
  • Zip Code: 52739
  • Latitude: 41.3792° N
  • Longitude: 91.3497° W

City Location and History

Conesville is a small town in southeastern Muscatine County, near the confluence of the Cedar and Iowa Rivers. Established in the mid-19th century, the town was named after early settler Henry Cone, who played a key role in its founding. Conesville developed as a farming community, with agriculture and livestock production forming the core of its economy. Its location near two rivers made it a strategic spot for settlers, contributing to its growth during its early years. Today, Conesville remains a quiet, rural community focused on farming.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Conesville is part of the Columbus Community School District, with students attending school in nearby Columbus Junction. A notable landmark in the town is the Conesville Community Center, which hosts local gatherings, events, and meetings. The town also features several parks and recreational areas, including access to the nearby Cedar River, which offers fishing and boating opportunities. Conesville celebrates its agricultural heritage with local festivals and events, providing a sense of pride and tradition in this small farming community.