Cities and Towns in Owyhee County, Idaho
Founded in 1863, Owyhee County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. The city of Murphy is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Owyhee County has a population of 12,336 and area of 7,678 square miles (19,886 km²).
List of all cities in Owyhee County, ID alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bruneau, ID | 83604 | 208 |
| Bruneau Valley, ID | 83604 | 208 |
| Grand View, ID | 83624 | 208 |
| Grasmere, ID | 83604 | 208 |
| Homedale, ID | 83628 | 208 |
| Marsing, ID | 83639 | 208 |
| Murphy, ID | 83650 | 208 |
| Oreana, ID | 83650 | 208 |
| Reynolds, ID | 83650 | 208 |
| Riddle, ID | 83604 | 208 |
| Silver City, ID | 83650 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Owyhee County, Idaho
Homedale
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.15 square miles
- Population: 2,633 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83628
- Latitude: 43.6182° N
- Longitude: 116.9335° W
City Location and History
Homedale is located in the northwestern part of Owyhee County, near the Snake River, and is approximately 40 miles west of Boise. The city was established in the late 19th century and grew as an agricultural community, benefiting from the fertile lands of the Snake River Valley. Homedale’s location made it a vital hub for farming, particularly for crops such as onions, potatoes, and alfalfa. The city’s growth was further supported by the expansion of irrigation systems, which enabled large-scale agriculture in the region. Today, Homedale remains a primarily agricultural town, with a strong community spirit and a rich history rooted in farming and ranching.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Homedale is served by the Homedale School District, which includes Homedale High School, Homedale Middle School, and Homedale Elementary School. The city’s landmarks include the Snake River, which provides recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and bird watching. Homedale City Park is a popular spot for local events and gatherings, featuring playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The Owyhee County Fairgrounds, located in Homedale, hosts the annual Owyhee County Fair and Rodeo, a major event that celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage and brings together residents from across the county. The fairgrounds are a central hub for community activities throughout the year.
Marsing
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.51 square miles
- Population: 1,042 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83639
- Latitude: 43.5465° N
- Longitude: 116.8135° W
City Location and History
Marsing is situated along the Snake River in Owyhee County, approximately 30 miles southwest of Boise. The town was founded in the early 20th century and has a rich history tied to agriculture and river trade. Marsing developed as a key agricultural center, with its location near the Snake River providing essential water resources for irrigation. The town’s economy has traditionally been based on farming, with a focus on crops like onions, corn, and grapes. Marsing is also known for its fruit orchards and vineyards, contributing to its reputation as a center for agricultural production in the region. The town’s proximity to the Snake River also made it a crucial transportation hub during the early days of settlement.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Marsing is served by the Marsing School District, which includes Marsing High School, Marsing Middle School, and Marsing Elementary School. Significant landmarks in Marsing include the Snake River, which is central to the town’s identity and offers a range of recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. The nearby Lizard Butte, a prominent geological formation, is a well-known local landmark and is the site of the annual Lizard Butte Easter Sunrise Service, a tradition that has been celebrated for decades. The Marsing Chamber of Commerce organizes various community events throughout the year, including the Marsing Harvest Festival, which highlights the town’s agricultural roots and brings together local residents and visitors.
Grand View
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.35 square miles
- Population: 452 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83624
- Latitude: 42.9857° N
- Longitude: 116.0932° W
City Location and History
Grand View is a small town located in southern Owyhee County, near the Snake River and the C.J. Strike Reservoir. The town was established in the early 20th century and has a history closely linked to agriculture and irrigation projects. The development of the C.J. Strike Dam and Reservoir in the mid-20th century provided a significant boost to the local economy by offering water for irrigation and supporting agricultural expansion. Grand View has remained a small, rural community with a strong focus on farming and ranching, with its residents deeply connected to the land and the agricultural heritage of the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grand View is served by the Bruneau-Grand View School District, with Grand View Elementary School being the primary educational institution in the town. The town’s key landmarks include the C.J. Strike Reservoir, which is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. The nearby Snake River also offers opportunities for outdoor recreation and is a vital resource for the local agricultural economy. The town celebrates its heritage with events like the Grand View Days, which include parades, rodeos, and other community activities that bring together residents and visitors. The surrounding Owyhee Mountains provide a scenic backdrop and are ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the rugged beauty of the region.
Murphy
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.09 square miles
- Population: 97 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83650
- Latitude: 43.2143° N
- Longitude: 116.5529° W
City Location and History
Murphy is the county seat of Owyhee County, though it is one of the smallest communities in the county. Located in southwestern Idaho, Murphy was established in the late 19th century as a railroad town and later became the administrative center of the county. The town was named after Cornelius “Con” Murphy, an influential railroad figure. Despite its small size, Murphy has played a significant role in the history and governance of Owyhee County. The town is known for its proximity to historical and archaeological sites, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the region. Murphy serves as a gateway to the vast, rugged landscapes of Owyhee County, which are known for their natural beauty and historical significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
As a very small community, Murphy does not have its own schools; students typically attend schools in nearby towns such as Homedale or Marsing. Key landmarks in Murphy include the Owyhee County Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the county’s history, including its Native American heritage, mining history, and pioneer life. The museum is also home to the Owyhee County Archives, a valuable resource for historical research. The nearby Owyhee Canyonlands offer stunning vistas and opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the region. Murphy is also the starting point for many who wish to explore the Owyhee Uplands Backcountry Byway, a scenic route through some of Idaho’s most remote and breathtaking landscapes.
Bruneau
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.30 square miles
- Population: 337 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83604
- Latitude: 42.8788° N
- Longitude: 115.7989° W
City Location and History
Bruneau is a small, unincorporated community located in southeastern Owyhee County, near the Bruneau River. The town was established in the late 19th century and has a history deeply connected to ranching and agriculture. Bruneau’s name is derived from the French word “brun” (brown), likely referring to the color of the river that flows through the area. The community has long been a center for cattle ranching, and the open rangelands surrounding Bruneau are still used for grazing. Bruneau is also known for its proximity to the Bruneau Dunes, one of Idaho’s most unique natural features, and the Bruneau Canyon, which offers stunning views and outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bruneau is served by the Bruneau-Grand View School District, with Bruneau Elementary School providing education to local children. The town’s major landmarks include the Bruneau Dunes State Park, home to North America’s tallest single-structured sand dune, which offers opportunities for hiking, sandboarding, and stargazing. The nearby Bruneau Canyon Overlook provides breathtaking views of the Bruneau River cutting through the canyon, making it a popular spot for photography and nature observation. The town also hosts community events such as the Bruneau Round-Up, a rodeo that showcases the area’s ranching traditions and draws participants and spectators from across the region. The Bruneau Hot Springs, located nearby, are another local attraction, offering a unique natural bathing experience.
