Cities and Towns in Osceola County, Iowa

Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Osceola County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Osceola County was formed from Woodbury County. The city of Sibley is the county seat. With FIPS code of 143, Osceola County has a population of 6,159 and area of 399 square miles (1,033 km²).

List of all cities in Osceola County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Allendorf, IA	51354	712
Ashton, IA	51232	712
Cloverdale, IA	51249	712
Harris, IA	51345	712
May City, IA	51354	712
Melvin, IA	51350	712
Ocheyedan, IA	51354	712
Sibley, IA	51249	712

Major Cities and Towns in Osceola County, Iowa

Sibley

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.63 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,800 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51249
• Latitude: 43.4047° N
• Longitude: 95.7514° W

City Location and History

Sibley, the county seat of Osceola County, is located in northwestern Iowa, near the Minnesota border. It was founded in 1872 and named after General Henry Hastings Sibley, an influential figure in Minnesota’s early history. The town grew as a result of its location along the railroad and the nearby Floyd River, making it a key agricultural and trade center for the region. The area’s rich farmland supported the growth of corn and soybean production, which remains the backbone of the local economy. Sibley’s development as a rural service hub has led to the establishment of local businesses, healthcare facilities, and a strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sibley is served by the Sibley-Ocheyedan Community School District, with Sibley-Ocheyedan High School being the primary educational institution. A major landmark in the town is Hawkeye Point, the highest elevation in Iowa, offering scenic views and a popular destination for visitors. The Sibley Railroad Museum showcases the town’s rich railroad history. The town is also home to the Osceola County Courthouse, a historic building constructed in 1902 that is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Each summer, the town hosts the Osceola County Fair, which celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage with livestock shows, parades, and family-friendly events.

Ashton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.35 square miles
• Population: Approximately 430 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51232
• Latitude: 43.3150° N
• Longitude: 95.7911° W

City Location and History

Ashton is a small town in central Osceola County, founded in the late 19th century. The town was originally called St. Gilman but was later renamed Ashton after the English town, reflecting the European heritage of its early settlers. Ashton developed as an agricultural community, with the railroad playing a critical role in its early growth by providing a reliable means of transporting crops and livestock. Farming, particularly corn and soybeans, continues to be a significant part of the local economy. The town’s close-knit community and agricultural roots give it a unique rural charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ashton is part of the Sibley-Ocheyedan Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Sibley. A key landmark in Ashton is St. Mary’s Catholic Church, a historic church that has been central to the community’s religious and social life for over a century. Ashton also features several parks and recreational areas that provide green spaces for families and visitors to enjoy. The annual Ashton Town Festival, which includes parades, games, and community dinners, is a major event that highlights the town’s strong community spirit and agricultural traditions.

Ocheyedan

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.44 square miles
• Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51354
• Latitude: 43.4158° N
• Longitude: 95.5306° W

City Location and History

Ocheyedan is located in eastern Osceola County, near the Ocheyedan River. The town was founded in the late 19th century, named after the nearby river, which is derived from the Native American word meaning “Yellow Earth.” Ocheyedan developed primarily as an agricultural center, with local farmers growing corn, soybeans, and raising livestock. The town also became known for Ocheyedan Mound, a naturally occurring hill located nearby, which was once thought to be the highest point in Iowa before it was determined that Hawkeye Point held that title. Ocheyedan has remained a small, close-knit farming community over the years.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ocheyedan is also part of the Sibley-Ocheyedan Community School District, with students attending schools in Sibley. The town’s key landmark is Ocheyedan Mound, a popular spot for locals and visitors who enjoy hiking and exploring the scenic landscape. The Ocheyedan Historical Society Museum preserves the history of the town and its early settlers. The community hosts the Ocheyedan Days Festival each summer, featuring a parade, games, and live music, which brings the town together to celebrate its heritage. The town’s agricultural roots and peaceful atmosphere make it an attractive place for residents who appreciate rural life.

Melvin

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.30 square miles
• Population: Approximately 200 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51350
• Latitude: 43.3636° N
• Longitude: 95.6056° W

City Location and History

Melvin is a small town located in northwestern Osceola County. It was founded in the late 1880s during the expansion of the railroad, which brought settlers to the region. The town was named after Melvin Allen, a prominent local figure. Melvin developed as an agricultural community, and its location along the railroad allowed for the easy shipment of local crops, particularly corn and soybeans. Over the years, the town has remained small, but its strong agricultural economy and tight-knit community have helped it maintain a stable population.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Melvin is part of the Hartley-Melvin-Sanborn Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Hartley. A major landmark in Melvin is the Melvin City Park, which serves as a gathering place for community events and family activities. The town’s annual Fourth of July celebration is a highlight of the year, featuring fireworks, a parade, and a community picnic. Melvin’s rural setting and agricultural focus provide a peaceful, community-oriented lifestyle for residents, with farming continuing to be the mainstay of the local economy.

Harris

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.18 square miles
• Population: Approximately 150 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51345
• Latitude: 43.4328° N
• Longitude: 95.4494° W

City Location and History

Harris is located in the northeastern part of Osceola County. It was established in 1889 during the expansion of the Burlington, Cedar Rapids, and Northern Railway. The town was named after one of the original landowners in the area. Harris has traditionally been an agricultural community, with farming playing a central role in the local economy. Over the years, Harris has maintained its small size and rural atmosphere, offering a quiet lifestyle for its residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Harris is part of the Harris-Lake Park Community School District, with students attending Harris-Lake Park High School in nearby Lake Park. One of the town’s landmarks is Harris City Park, which provides recreational opportunities and serves as a gathering spot for community events. Harris also celebrates its agricultural roots with local festivals and picnics. The town’s close-knit community, peaceful rural setting, and agricultural focus continue to define its way of life, making it a pleasant place for those seeking a quiet, small-town experience.