Cities and Towns in Olmsted County, Minnesota
Founded in 1855, Olmsted County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Olmsted County was formed from Fillmore County, Wabasha County, and Rice County. The city of Rochester is the county seat. With FIPS code of 109, Olmsted County has a population of 163,436 and area of 653.01 square miles (1,691 km²).
List of all cities in Olmsted County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Byron, MN | 55920 | 507 |
| Douglas, MN | 55960 | 507 |
| Dover, MN | 55929 | 507 |
| Eyota, MN | 55934 | 507 |
| High Forest, MN | 55976 | 507 |
| Mayo Clinic, MN | 55905 | 507 |
| Oronoco, MN | 55960 | 507 |
| Pleasant Grove, MN | 55976 | 507 |
| Predmore, MN | 55934 | 507 |
| Rochester, MN | 55901 | 507 |
| 55902 | 507 | |
| 55903 | 507 | |
| 55904 | 507 | |
| 55905 | 507 | |
| 55906 | 507 | |
| Stewartville, MN | 55976 | 507 |
| Viola, MN | 55934 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Olmsted County, Minnesota
1. Rochester
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 54.21 square miles
- Population: 121,000 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 55901, 55902, 55903, 55904, 55905
- Latitude: 44.0121° N
- Longitude: 92.4795° W
City Location and History:
Rochester is the largest city in Olmsted County and serves as its county seat. It is located in southeastern Minnesota, approximately 85 miles south of the Twin Cities. Rochester was first settled in the mid-19th century, and its growth accelerated after the establishment of the Mayo Clinic in 1889. Dr. William Worrall Mayo, along with his sons, is credited with transforming the city into a medical hub that attracts people from around the world. The city’s development was heavily influenced by the presence of the Mayo Clinic, which remains the city’s largest employer and is a key driver of its economy. Rochester’s downtown area grew around the clinic, and the city soon became a regional center for healthcare, education, and commerce. As the Mayo Clinic expanded, so did the city’s infrastructure, including roads, housing, and educational institutions. Rochester has become known not only for its medical excellence but also for its high quality of life, with an emphasis on outdoor recreation, arts, and culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Rochester is home to several major educational institutions, including the Rochester Public Schools district, which operates multiple elementary, middle, and high schools, as well as Rochester Community and Technical College and the University of Minnesota Rochester campus. Major landmarks in the city include the world-renowned Mayo Clinic, which is both a medical facility and an architectural marvel. The Plummer Building, one of the most iconic structures in the Mayo Clinic complex, is a prominent feature of the skyline. Rochester also offers a thriving arts scene, with attractions such as the Rochester Art Center and the historic Mayowood Mansion. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the many parks and trails, including the nearby Chester Woods Park and Quarry Hill Nature Center. The city hosts a number of annual events, such as the Rochesterfest, which celebrates the local community with music, food, and entertainment.
2. Byron
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.86 square miles
- Population: 5,500 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 55920
- Latitude: 44.0201° N
- Longitude: 92.4927° W
City Location and History:
Byron is located about 10 miles south of Rochester, in the southeastern corner of Olmsted County. The city was founded in the mid-19th century, with early settlers drawn to the area due to the fertile farmland and proximity to the Zumbro River. Byron originally developed as a farming and railroad town, with a small but steady population. Its location along the railway played an important role in its economic development, providing transportation for goods and people. Over the years, Byron’s population and economy grew as Rochester expanded, and the town gradually became a suburban community of Rochester. While it has experienced rapid residential growth in recent decades, Byron has managed to maintain a small-town atmosphere, with a focus on family-friendly amenities and local businesses. The city is also known for its strong sense of community and well-maintained parks, which make it an attractive place for families and retirees alike.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Byron is served by the Byron Public Schools district, which includes Byron High School, Byron Middle School, and several elementary schools. The city also has a variety of parks and recreational facilities, including the Byron Community Center, which hosts events and local activities. Notable landmarks include the Byron Heritage Center, which preserves the history of the town and its early settlers. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the nearby Zumbro River and the surrounding countryside, with numerous trails for hiking and biking. The city’s parks, such as the Byron City Park and the recently developed Pine Island Park, offer a wide range of outdoor activities, from sports fields to playgrounds. The annual Byron Days festival celebrates the community, with parades, fireworks, and local entertainment.
3. Stewartville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.57 square miles
- Population: 7,400 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 55976
- Latitude: 43.8545° N
- Longitude: 92.3064° W
City Location and History:
Stewartville is located in the southern part of Olmsted County, about 10 miles south of Rochester. The city was settled in the early 1850s, and its location along the South Fork of the Zumbro River made it an ideal spot for agriculture and milling. The town was originally named after Benjamin Stewart, an early settler, and it quickly became a small, thriving community. Stewartville’s growth was bolstered by its access to railroads, which helped transport goods and residents. In the 20th century, the town’s economy diversified, and it began to develop as a residential area serving as a suburb for Rochester. Today, Stewartville is known for its strong school system, family-friendly environment, and affordable housing, which have attracted many people seeking a quieter, rural lifestyle while still being close to the amenities of Rochester.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Stewartville is part of the Stewartville School District, which includes Stewartville High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The city’s proximity to Rochester allows residents to benefit from the larger city’s resources while enjoying a quieter, more rural setting. Major landmarks in Stewartville include the historic Stewartville Depot, which highlights the town’s early connections to the railroad, and the Zumbro River, which offers recreational opportunities such as fishing and kayaking. Stewartville’s beautiful parks, such as the Stewartville City Park, provide ample space for outdoor activities, including walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. The city also hosts events throughout the year, including the annual Stewartville Fun Fest, which includes a parade, carnival, and fireworks, helping to foster a sense of community among residents.
4. Pine Island
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.34 square miles
- Population: 4,500 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 55963
- Latitude: 44.3309° N
- Longitude: 92.4970° W
City Location and History:
Pine Island is located in the central part of Olmsted County, about 15 miles north of Rochester. The town was first settled in the mid-19th century, and it grew as a farming and trading community due to its location near the Zumbro River. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota people, and the name “Pine Island” likely refers to the numerous pine trees that were once common along the river’s banks. The arrival of European settlers in the 1850s spurred the town’s development, and the railroad’s arrival in the late 1800s further contributed to its economic growth. Today, Pine Island is a small but growing suburban community that offers a mix of agricultural, residential, and light commercial activity. The city has attracted new residents in recent years, drawn by its proximity to Rochester, its peaceful atmosphere, and its strong community ties.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Pine Island is served by the Pine Island School District, which operates Pine Island High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The community places a strong emphasis on education and youth activities, with the Pine Island Community Center serving as a hub for local events and gatherings. Notable landmarks include the historic Pine Island Depot, a reminder of the city’s railroad history, and Pine Island Park, which features outdoor recreational spaces such as walking trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. The surrounding countryside provides opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring the natural beauty of southeastern Minnesota. Pine Island is also known for its annual events, such as the Pine Island Harvest Festival, which celebrates the community’s agricultural roots with a parade, food vendors, and entertainment for all ages.
5. Chatfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.06 square miles
- Population: 2,700 (as of 2020 census)
- Zip Code(s): 55923
- Latitude: 43.8469° N
- Longitude: 92.3907° W
City Location and History:
Chatfield is located in the southeastern corner of Olmsted County, approximately 25 miles south of Rochester. The town was founded in the 1850s, and it was initially a small farming and railroad community. Its location along the Root River made it an important hub for transportation and commerce in the 19th century. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s helped to further establish Chatfield as a key agricultural and commercial center in the region. The city’s economy grew throughout the early 20th century with the development of local industries and the expansion of nearby farmlands. Today, Chatfield retains a small-town feel, but its proximity to Rochester has spurred growth, with many people choosing to live in Chatfield and commute to the larger city for work.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Chatfield is served by the Chatfield Public Schools district, which includes Chatfield High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The city is also home to a number of landmarks that highlight its history and natural beauty. The Chatfield Center for the Arts offers a venue for local performances, while the Chatfield Historical Society Museum provides insights into the city’s past. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Root River, which offers fishing, canoeing, and biking along the Root River State Trail. The city is known for its annual Covered Bridge Festival, which celebrates the region’s historical architecture, local artisans, and community spirit. Chatfield’s charming downtown area features a blend of historic buildings, local businesses, and friendly cafes, offering a quaint and welcoming atmosphere.
