Cities and Towns in Payette County, Idaho
Founded in 1917, Payette County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Payette County was formed from Canyon County. The city of Payette is the county seat. With FIPS code of 75, Payette County has a population of 26,350 and area of 408 square miles (1,057 km²).
List of all cities in Payette County, ID alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Fruitland, ID | 83619 | 208 |
| Hamilton Corner, ID | 83655 | 208 |
| New Plymouth, ID | 83655 | 208 |
| Payette, ID | 83661 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Payette County, Idaho
Payette
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.86 square miles
- Population: 7,517 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83661
- Latitude: 44.0788° N
- Longitude: 116.6888° W
City Location and History
Payette is the county seat and largest city in Payette County, located in the southwestern part of Idaho along the Snake River. The city was originally established as a railroad camp in the late 19th century and was named after Francois Payette, a French-Canadian fur trapper and explorer who played a significant role in the region’s early history. Payette grew rapidly as an agricultural hub, benefiting from its proximity to the river, which provided both irrigation and transportation. The city’s economy has long been rooted in agriculture, particularly in fruit orchards and other crops, which have flourished due to the fertile soil and favorable climate of the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Payette is served by the Payette School District, with Payette High School and McCain Middle School being the main educational institutions. Notable landmarks in Payette include the Payette County Courthouse, a historic building that reflects the city’s role as the administrative center of the county. The Payette River, which runs through the area, is a major natural attraction, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and picnicking. The city also hosts the annual Payette Apple Blossom Festival, celebrating the region’s rich agricultural heritage with parades, entertainment, and community activities. The historic A.B. Moss Theatre is another key landmark, showcasing local arts and culture.
Fruitland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.25 square miles
- Population: 5,397 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83619
- Latitude: 44.0088° N
- Longitude: 116.9182° W
City Location and History
Fruitland is located just south of Payette, near the border with Oregon, and is part of Payette County’s agricultural heartland. The city was founded in 1897, named for its rich fruit orchards that once dominated the landscape. Fruitland’s location, with access to the Snake River and the fertile soil of the valley, made it an ideal location for growing a variety of fruits, particularly apples, pears, and cherries. The city has grown steadily over the years, evolving from a purely agricultural community to a more diversified economy while still maintaining its strong ties to farming and agriculture. Fruitland is known for its small-town charm and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Fruitland School District serves the educational needs of the city, with Fruitland High School, Fruitland Middle School, and Fruitland Elementary School being the primary institutions. Key landmarks include the Fruitland City Park, which provides recreational space for residents and hosts various community events throughout the year. The city’s historic orchards, though fewer in number today, remain a symbol of Fruitland’s agricultural roots. The nearby Snake River offers additional recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The city also celebrates its heritage with the annual Harvest Festival, which includes parades, local produce, and community activities that highlight the area’s agricultural legacy.
New Plymouth
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.77 square miles
- Population: 1,538 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 83655
- Latitude: 43.9735° N
- Longitude: 116.8182° W
City Location and History
New Plymouth is a small town located southeast of Payette in Payette County. The town was established in 1896 as part of an ambitious utopian agricultural colony, with the aim of creating a community based on cooperative farming principles. New Plymouth is known for its unique horseshoe-shaped layout, designed to provide equal access to irrigation water from the Payette River. This design reflects the founders’ vision of an ideal agricultural community. Over time, New Plymouth has grown into a small, yet thriving, agricultural town with a strong sense of community. The town’s history is closely tied to its founding principles, and it continues to maintain its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
New Plymouth School District oversees education in the town, with New Plymouth High School, New Plymouth Middle School, and New Plymouth Elementary School being the main schools. The city is home to the Payette County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Payette County Fair and Rodeo, a significant event that celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage. The historic horseshoe-shaped layout of the town is itself a landmark, reflecting the unique vision of its founders. The nearby Payette River provides recreational opportunities such as fishing and rafting, while local parks offer spaces for community gatherings and outdoor activities. The town’s Pioneer Day celebration is another key event, highlighting New Plymouth’s rich history and community spirit.