Cities and Towns in Orleans County, New York

Founded in 1824, Orleans County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Orleans County was formed from Genesee County. The city of Albion is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Orleans County has a population of 40,191 and area of 817 square miles (2,116 km²).

List of all cities in Orleans County, NY alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Albion, NY	14411	585
Clarendon, NY	14429	585
Eagle Harbor, NY	14411	585
Fancher, NY	14452	585
Holley, NY	14470	585
Hulberton, NY	14470	585
Kendall, NY	14476	585
Kent, NY	14477	585
Knowlesville, NY	14479	585
Lyndonville, NY	14098	585
Medina, NY	14103	585
Waterport, NY	14571	585

Major Cities and Towns in Orleans County, New York

Albion

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.7 square miles
• Population: Approximately 8,500 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 14411
• Latitude: 43.2407° N
• Longitude: 78.2064° W

City Location and History

Albion, located in the central part of Orleans County, is the county seat and a significant historical center for the region. It was founded in 1824 and incorporated as a village in 1839. Albion’s location along the Erie Canal made it an important transportation and trade hub in the 19th century, contributing to the growth of the community. The village was initially part of the town of Carlyle but was separated and developed into its own community due to the booming canal trade. The construction of the Erie Canal in the 1820s spurred growth in Albion, as it provided easier transportation of goods and encouraged settlement in the area. By the late 1800s, Albion was known for its manufacturing, particularly in the production of grain, flour, and timber. As the canal’s importance waned, Albion diversified its economy with agriculture and light industry. Today, the village is a charming and quiet community, preserving its rich history while fostering a small-town atmosphere. Its proximity to the canal, rural farmlands, and New York City make it an ideal place for people seeking both tranquility and accessibility.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Albion is served by the Albion Central School District, which includes Albion High School and Albion Middle School, both offering robust academic programs and extracurricular activities. The district is known for its emphasis on preparing students for higher education, with a strong focus on STEM and arts programs. Key landmarks in Albion include the Orleans County Courthouse, a historic building that houses the local government and is a key symbol of the town’s heritage. The Erie Canal runs through the village, and visitors can explore its historic sites, including the Erie Canalway Trail, which offers opportunities for biking, walking, and birdwatching. The Albion Depot, a restored train station, reflects the town’s transportation history. The Gaines Canal Park and the Holley Falls are also notable natural attractions in the surrounding area. Additionally, The Pullman Memorial Universalist Church, a National Historic Landmark, is another prominent landmark, known for its unique architecture and historical significance. Albion combines its agricultural roots with historic and recreational attractions, making it a great place for residents and visitors alike.

Medina

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 3.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,000 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 14103
• Latitude: 43.2210° N
• Longitude: 78.3982° W

City Location and History

Medina is a small city located in the western part of Orleans County, along the Oak Orchard River, which flows into Lake Ontario. Founded in the early 19th century, Medina was initially a settlement based on agriculture, but its location on the Erie Canal played a central role in its growth. The canal, completed in the 1820s, made Medina a key transportation hub for trade between the Great Lakes and New York City. This access to the canal helped Medina become an important center for industries like flour milling, which led to the city being known as the “Flour City” during the 19th century. As the economy shifted in the 20th century, Medina saw its manufacturing base diversify to include brick production, as the area is rich in clay. The city’s architectural legacy, including its historic buildings and the famous Medina sandstone, which was quarried locally, is a reminder of its industrial past. Today, Medina remains a small but vibrant community that retains much of its historic charm, with scenic views of the canal and a growing tourism industry focusing on the area’s history and natural beauty.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Medina is served by the Medina Central School District, which includes Medina High School and Medina Middle School. The district offers a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular programs to serve students of all interests. Medina’s landmarks include the Medina Historic District, which features beautiful 19th-century buildings constructed from Medina sandstone, a material famous for its durability and distinct color. The Erie Canal is one of the main attractions in the area, offering visitors the opportunity to take canal boat tours, walk along the Canal Trail, or visit the Medina Railroad Museum, which highlights the town’s transportation history. The Medina Falls is another natural feature, with a waterfall located near the downtown area. The Medina Firemen’s Park hosts several local events, including festivals and fireworks displays, while The Orleans County YMCA offers recreational activities. Medina also boasts a variety of antique shops and boutiques, preserving the town’s historic vibe. The town’s rich canal history, combined with its natural beauty, makes Medina a unique and picturesque destination.

Carlton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 24.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 3,000 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 14477
• Latitude: 43.2997° N
• Longitude: 78.2013° W

City Location and History

Carlton is a rural town in the northeastern part of Orleans County, situated on the southern shore of Lake Ontario. It was first settled in the early 19th century and became an official town in 1822, following the division of surrounding communities. The town developed as an agricultural center, with farming being its primary industry. The Lake Ontario shoreline was particularly valuable for its fertile soil and access to transportation routes. The construction of the Erie Canal in the early 1800s, along with the development of railroads, enhanced Carlton’s ability to ship agricultural products and furthered its economic growth. Today, Carlton remains a small, rural town known for its scenic beauty and agricultural heritage. The town is also popular for its recreational activities, as it has access to Lake Ontario’s shores, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. Its combination of natural beauty and rural atmosphere makes Carlton an ideal place for those looking for a quiet, peaceful lifestyle while still being within reach of larger urban centers in the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carlton is part of the Kendall Central School District, which includes Kendall High School and Kendall Junior High School. The district offers a well-rounded education, with a focus on both academics and extracurricular activities. Carlton’s landmarks include its scenic access to Lake Ontario, particularly the Lake Ontario State Parkway, which offers views of the lake and a popular route for outdoor enthusiasts. The Carlton Historical Society Museum offers exhibits on the area’s agricultural and early settler history, preserving its rural past. The Lakeside Beach State Park, located on the shoreline of Lake Ontario, is a significant draw for visitors, providing opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and birdwatching. The town is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Hickory Ridge Golf and Country Club, offering a blend of nature and leisure. Carlton’s rural charm and proximity to Lake Ontario’s beauty make it a great destination for visitors looking for a peaceful retreat with access to outdoor activities.