Cities and Towns in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin

Founded in 1853, Ozaukee County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Ozaukee County was formed from Washington County. The city of Port Washington is the county seat. With FIPS code of 89, Ozaukee County has a population of 92,497 and area of 233.08 square miles (604 km²).

 

List of all cities in Ozaukee County, WI alphabetically

  • Belgium, WI
  • Cedarburg, WI
  • Fredonia, WI
  • Grafton, WI
  • Mequon, WI
  • Port Washington, WI
  • Saukville, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Ozaukee County, Wisconsin

Mequon

  • Area: 48.77 square miles
  • Population: 25,240 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53092, 53097
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.2356° N, 87.9847° W

Location and History

Mequon is located in the southeastern part of Ozaukee County, along the western shore of Lake Michigan. The city was first settled in the early 19th century by German immigrants and was officially incorporated in 1957. Mequon has a rich agricultural history, with early settlers primarily engaged in farming. Over time, the city evolved into a suburban community, attracting residents due to its proximity to Milwaukee, scenic landscapes, and access to Lake Michigan. Mequon has maintained a balance between urban development and preserving its natural beauty, with large tracts of farmland, parks, and nature preserves remaining intact.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mequon is served by the Mequon-Thiensville School District, which includes Homestead High School, known for its strong academic and athletic programs. The city is home to Concordia University Wisconsin, a major higher education institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs. Significant landmarks in Mequon include the Mequon Nature Preserve, a 444-acre area dedicated to the restoration of wetlands, prairies, and woodlands. Another key landmark is the Jonathan Clark House Museum, a historic home that offers insights into the life of early settlers in the area. The city’s scenic location along Lake Michigan also provides residents and visitors with access to beautiful beaches and recreational opportunities.

Cedarburg

  • Area: 4.82 square miles
  • Population: 11,628 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53012
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.2967° N, 87.9873° W

Location and History

Cedarburg is a charming city located in the central part of Ozaukee County, just north of Milwaukee. Founded in the mid-19th century by German immigrants, Cedarburg quickly became known for its milling industry, with the Cedar Creek providing water power for the town’s many mills. The city’s historic downtown is a testament to its rich heritage, with well-preserved stone buildings and cobblestone streets that reflect its 19th-century origins. Cedarburg has a reputation for being one of Wisconsin’s most picturesque small towns, attracting visitors with its historic charm, vibrant arts scene, and numerous festivals.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cedarburg is served by the Cedarburg School District, which includes Cedarburg High School, known for its academic excellence. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Cedarburg Mill, one of the oldest surviving mills in Wisconsin, and the Cedarburg Cultural Center, which hosts art exhibits, performances, and community events. The historic downtown district is a major draw, featuring boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in buildings dating back to the 19th century. Cedarburg also hosts several popular festivals throughout the year, including the Cedarburg Strawberry Festival and the Cedarburg Wine & Harvest Festival, which celebrate the city’s agricultural roots and community spirit.

Port Washington

  • Area: 7.08 square miles
  • Population: 12,353 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53074
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.3878° N, 87.8759° W

Location and History

Port Washington is located on the shores of Lake Michigan in the eastern part of Ozaukee County. The city was founded in 1835 and quickly developed into a bustling port town, serving as a key transportation hub for the region’s agricultural products and timber. The city was named after President George Washington and became known for its picturesque harbor and historic lighthouse, which guided ships into the port. Over the years, Port Washington has evolved into a vibrant community with a rich maritime history, scenic waterfront, and thriving downtown area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Port Washington is served by the Port Washington-Saukville School District, with Port Washington High School being the main educational institution in the city. Key landmarks include the Port Washington Breakwater Lighthouse, a historic structure that has become a symbol of the city, and the 1860 Light Station, which offers tours and exhibits about the city’s maritime history. The downtown area features well-preserved historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The city’s harbor is a focal point for community events, including the annual Fish Day festival, which celebrates Port Washington’s fishing heritage with food, music, and activities.

Grafton

  • Area: 5.10 square miles
  • Population: 12,094 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53024
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.3194° N, 87.9537° W

Location and History

Grafton is situated in the southern part of Ozaukee County, along the Milwaukee River. The village was settled in the early 19th century and was initially known as Hamburg, reflecting the German heritage of its early settlers. Grafton developed as an agricultural community, with the river providing power for gristmills and sawmills. In the early 20th century, Grafton became known for its involvement in the recording industry, with Paramount Records producing a significant number of early blues recordings in the village. Today, Grafton is a thriving suburban community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Grafton is served by the Grafton School District, which includes Grafton High School. The village is known for its connection to the history of blues music, with Paramount Plaza in downtown Grafton featuring a Walk of Fame honoring musicians who recorded with Paramount Records. The Milwaukee River runs through the village, providing scenic views and recreational opportunities, including the popular Veterans Memorial Park. Grafton also hosts several community events, such as the Grafton Holiday Parade and the annual Giro d’Grafton bicycle race, which attract visitors from across the region.

Thiensville

  • Area: 1.05 square miles
  • Population: 3,235 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53092
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.2375° N, 87.9786° W

Location and History

Thiensville is a small village located in the southeastern part of Ozaukee County, entirely surrounded by the city of Mequon. The village was founded in the mid-19th century by German immigrants and was named after John Henry Thien, one of the area’s earliest settlers. Thiensville developed as a small farming community and later became known for its charming downtown area and strong sense of community. Despite its small size, Thiensville has maintained its unique identity and historic charm, even as it has become closely integrated with the larger community of Mequon.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Thiensville is part of the Mequon-Thiensville School District, with students attending schools in nearby Mequon, including Homestead High School. The village’s historic downtown district is a significant landmark, featuring well-preserved buildings that house shops, restaurants, and businesses. Village Park, located along the Milwaukee River, is a popular spot for recreation and community events, including the annual Thiensville Family Fun Before the 4th festival, which features fireworks, a parade, and live entertainment. Thiensville’s commitment to preserving its history is evident in the Thiensville Historical Society, which maintains records and exhibits related to the village’s past.

Belgium

  • Area: 1.41 square miles
  • Population: 2,348 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53004
  • Latitude and Longitude: 43.4983° N, 87.8503° W

Location and History

Belgium is located in the northern part of Ozaukee County, near the shores of Lake Michigan. The village was founded in the late 19th century by immigrants from Luxembourg, who named it after their homeland. Belgium developed as a small agricultural community, with farming and dairy production being the primary industries. The village has retained its strong ties to its Luxembourgian heritage, with many residents still tracing their ancestry back to the original settlers. Today, Belgium is a quiet, rural community with a focus on preserving its cultural heritage and natural surroundings.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Belgium is part of the Cedar Grove-Belgium School District, with students attending Cedar Grove-Belgium High School in nearby Cedar Grove. The village is known for its connection to Luxembourgian culture, which is celebrated annually at the Luxembourg Fest of America, an event that features traditional music, food, and dancing. A key landmark in Belgium is the Luxembourg American Cultural Center, which preserves and promotes the history and heritage of Luxembourgian immigrants in the United States. Another significant site is Harrington Beach State Park, located just east of the village along Lake Michigan, offering camping, hiking, and fishing opportunities in a beautiful natural setting.