Cities and Towns in Nicollet County, Minnesota
Founded in 1853, Nicollet County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Nicollet County was formed from Dakota County. The city of St. Peter is the county seat. With FIPS code of 103, Nicollet County has a population of 34,332 and area of 452.29 square miles (1,171 km²).
List of all cities in Nicollet County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Courtland, MN | 56021 | 507 |
| La Fayette, MN | 56054 | 507 |
| Mankato, MN | 56003 | 507 |
| Nicollet, MN | 56074 | 507 |
| North Mankato, MN | 56003 | 507 |
| Saint Peter, MN | 56082 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Nicollet County, Minnesota
1. St. Peter
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 7.67 square miles
- Population: 11,000 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56082
- Latitude: 44.3342° N
- Longitude: 94.4815° W
City Location and History:
St. Peter, the county seat of Nicollet County, is located along the Minnesota River in south-central Minnesota, about 75 miles southwest of Minneapolis. Founded in 1853, St. Peter was named after Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen, due to the river’s proximity. The town’s early history was shaped by its strategic location along the river, which facilitated transportation and trade. In the mid-19th century, St. Peter became a key settlement for European immigrants, particularly from Norway and Germany. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s contributed to the city’s growth, establishing it as a commercial center for the surrounding agricultural region. St. Peter also has deep roots in education, being home to Gustavus Adolphus College, which was founded in 1862 and remains a significant educational institution in the region. St. Peter’s history is marked by its resilience during events such as the 1998 Minnesota River flood, which caused widespread damage but also demonstrated the city’s strong sense of community and recovery efforts. Today, St. Peter is a blend of historic charm, educational prominence, and growing industry.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
St. Peter is home to the St. Peter Public Schools district, which includes St. Peter High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. In addition to public schools, the city’s educational landscape is enriched by Gustavus Adolphus College, a private liberal arts college renowned for its academic programs and cultural events. St. Peter boasts a variety of landmarks, such as the Nicollet County Courthouse, a beautiful example of early 20th-century architecture located in the city’s historic downtown. The City of St. Peter also features the Minnesota River, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking along the scenic riverbank. The nearby Traverse des Sioux historic site, where Native American tribes and the U.S. government signed treaties in 1851, is a notable landmark that attracts history enthusiasts. The St. Peter Fairgrounds hosts annual events such as the Nicollet County Fair, and the city offers several parks and outdoor spaces, including the St. Peter Community Center, which provides facilities for sports, events, and recreation. The city’s commitment to preserving its history while fostering cultural and educational opportunities makes it a vibrant place to live and visit.
2. North Mankato
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 5.88 square miles
- Population: 14,000 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56003
- Latitude: 44.1739° N
- Longitude: 94.0080° W
City Location and History:
North Mankato is located in the southern part of Nicollet County, directly adjacent to the city of Mankato. It lies along the banks of the Minnesota River and is part of the Mankato-North Mankato metropolitan area. Originally known as “Sherburn,” the town was founded in the mid-19th century as a stop for settlers moving westward. In 1891, the town was renamed North Mankato to reflect its proximity to the larger city of Mankato, which had grown significantly due to its location at the confluence of the Minnesota and Blue Earth rivers. North Mankato grew primarily as a residential area for Mankato workers, offering a quieter, more suburban lifestyle while still benefiting from the economic activity of its larger neighbor. Over the years, the city developed a diverse economy, with sectors like retail, healthcare, and manufacturing making significant contributions. North Mankato is also known for its strong community focus and active involvement in regional events and local organizations.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
North Mankato is part of the Mankato Area Public Schools district, with students attending schools such as Monroe Elementary and Mankato East High School. The city also boasts a number of private schools, including the Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic School. One of North Mankato’s most significant landmarks is the large and scenic Benson Park, which offers ample green space, sports fields, and a popular disc golf course. The city’s proximity to the Mankato Riverfront and the River Hills Mall gives residents easy access to recreational and retail opportunities. North Mankato is also home to the popular Red Jacket Trail, which runs along the Minnesota River and provides a walking and biking path for outdoor enthusiasts. The city hosts the annual North Mankato Fun Days, a community celebration featuring parades, a carnival, and outdoor concerts. North Mankato’s welcoming, family-oriented atmosphere, combined with its access to the amenities of Mankato, makes it a desirable place to live.
3. Nicollet
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.98 square miles
- Population: 1,300 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56074
- Latitude: 44.3030° N
- Longitude: 94.3915° W
City Location and History:
Nicollet, a small city located in the central part of Nicollet County, is situated on the banks of the Minnesota River, approximately 10 miles north of St. Peter. The city was founded in the mid-19th century and named after Joseph Nicollet, a French explorer and cartographer who explored the area in the 1830s. Nicollet grew as a rural farming community, and its agricultural economy has remained vital throughout its history. The city’s economy was initially supported by the surrounding farmland, and while agriculture continues to play a central role in Nicollet’s economy, it has also developed a modest commercial and service sector. Nicollet’s location along the river made it an important transportation point in the 1800s, though it has remained a small town throughout its history. The city’s residents are closely tied to farming traditions, and the town remains a place where local agriculture is celebrated and central to its identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Nicollet is served by the Nicollet Public School District, which includes Nicollet High School and several elementary schools. The city takes pride in its local school system, which provides education for the area’s children and hosts community events and extracurricular activities. Notable landmarks in Nicollet include the Nicollet Veterans Memorial Park, which honors local veterans and provides a space for reflection and community gatherings. The Nicollet Trail, a scenic path that follows the Minnesota River, is also a popular destination for walking and biking. The city hosts a number of annual events, including the Nicollet Harvest Festival, which celebrates local agriculture, arts, and culture. Nicollet’s small-town charm, coupled with its access to the river and nearby larger cities like St. Peter, makes it an attractive place for families and those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
4. Courtland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.12 square miles
- Population: 500 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56021
- Latitude: 44.2979° N
- Longitude: 94.4614° W
City Location and History:
Courtland is a small village located in the northern part of Nicollet County, about 15 miles east of Mankato. The city was founded in the 1850s and was originally named after the Courtland family, early settlers in the area. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s brought increased population growth and economic activity to the area, as it allowed farmers to easily transport their goods. Courtland became an important agricultural community, with wheat, corn, and other grains being the backbone of its economy. Over time, the town remained small but stable, with its growth largely driven by the surrounding farming region. Today, Courtland is a peaceful, rural town that serves as a residential area for many who work in Mankato or the surrounding communities. Despite its small size, Courtland offers a close-knit community atmosphere and a quiet rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Courtland is served by the Nicollet School District, which includes both Nicollet and Courtland students. The local school provides a strong education and offers opportunities for extracurricular activities. One of the town’s landmarks is the Courtland Ballpark, where the local baseball team plays, and the town often hosts sports tournaments and community gatherings. The Courtland Lutheran Church, a historic structure, is another significant landmark in the city, reflecting the town’s strong Scandinavian roots and faith-based traditions. Courtland’s rural landscape is a key feature, offering scenic views of farmland and the nearby Minnesota River. The town celebrates local culture and agriculture with community events such as the Courtland Corn Fest, which features food, games, and live entertainment, fostering a strong sense of community pride. With its welcoming atmosphere and tranquil setting, Courtland offers a slower pace of life while maintaining close connections to larger urban centers.
5. Lafayette
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.78 square miles
- Population: 300 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 56054
- Latitude: 44.2929° N
- Longitude: 94.4139° W
City Location and History:
Lafayette is located in the eastern part of Nicollet County, approximately 10 miles southeast of St. Peter. Founded in the 1870s, Lafayette was named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a French military officer who fought in the American Revolution. The city grew quickly in its early years, thanks in part to its proximity to the Minnesota River, which provided access for transportation and trade. Like many towns in the region, Lafayette’s economy was based on agriculture, and it was home to a thriving community of German and Scandinavian immigrants who brought farming traditions with them. Today, Lafayette is a small rural town with a tight-knit community, and its economy continues to be based largely on farming and agriculture. Despite its small size, Lafayette maintains a strong sense of local identity and is known for its welcoming residents and commitment to preserving its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Lafayette is part of the New Ulm Public Schools district, with children attending school in nearby New Ulm. The city’s landmarks include the Lafayette Lutheran Church, which is an important cultural and spiritual center for the community, as well as the nearby Lafayette Community Center, which hosts local events and serves as a gathering place for residents. The city is also known for its historic downtown area, which features a few businesses and the Lafayette Post Office, one of the city’s longest-standing institutions. Lafayette is surrounded by farmland, providing scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere for residents and visitors. The community hosts the annual Lafayette Festival, which celebrates local culture, agriculture, and the town’s German roots with food, music, and entertainment. With its rural charm and close-knit community, Lafayette remains a quintessential small Minnesota town.
