Cities and Towns in Platte County, Nebraska

Founded in 1856, Platte County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, Platte County was formed from Greene and Loup Counties. The city of Columbus is the county seat. With FIPS code of 141, Platte County has a population of 34,241 and area of 678 square miles (1,756 km²).

List of all cities in Platte County, NE alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Columbus, NE	68601	402
	68602	402
Cornlea, NE	68642	402
Creston, NE	68631	402
Duncan, NE	68634	402
Humphrey, NE	68642	402
Lindsay, NE	68644	402
Monroe, NE	68647	402
Platte Center, NE	68653	402
Richland, NE	68601	402
Tarnov, NE	68642	402

Major Cities and Towns in Platte County, Nebraska

Columbus

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 12.16 square miles
• Population: 22,000+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68601, 68602
• Latitude: 41.4347° N
• Longitude: 98.0041° W

Location and History:

Columbus is the county seat of Platte County, situated in east-central Nebraska, approximately 90 miles west of Omaha. The city was established in 1856, originally serving as a trading post along the Loup River, which was an essential part of the region’s early economy. The city’s name was chosen in honor of Christopher Columbus, and its strategic location near the confluence of the Loup and Platte Rivers helped it grow rapidly as a regional transportation hub. Columbus became a center for settlers moving westward during the mid-1800s, and its early economy was driven by agriculture, timber, and trade. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s further boosted Columbus’ growth, allowing it to become a major center for commerce and industry in the region. Over the years, Columbus has evolved into a thriving city with a diverse economy that includes agriculture, manufacturing, and retail. The city continues to serve as a regional hub for healthcare, education, and commerce, offering a high quality of life for residents while maintaining its historical charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Columbus is served by the Columbus Public Schools district, which includes several elementary schools, Columbus Middle School, and Columbus High School. The district offers a comprehensive educational experience with a variety of academic, athletic, and extracurricular opportunities. The city is also home to Central Community College, which provides higher education options for students in the region. Notable landmarks in Columbus include the Platte County Courthouse, a beautiful historic building located downtown, and the Columbus Train Depot, which is now a museum highlighting the city’s railroad history. The Columbus Historical Society operates several museums, including the Platte County Historical Society Museum, which offers exhibits on the city’s pioneer and railroad heritage. Outdoor recreation is abundant in Columbus, with Pawnee Park being one of the city’s most popular green spaces, offering trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities. The city also boasts several art galleries, a public library, and a strong cultural scene, making it an attractive destination for both residents and visitors alike.

Humphrey

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 0.57 square miles
• Population: 800+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68642
• Latitude: 41.5828° N
• Longitude: 97.3441° W

Location and History:

Humphrey is a small village located in the northeastern part of Platte County, about 15 miles south of Columbus. The village was founded in the late 19th century and named after Humphrey, an early settler in the area. Initially, the town grew as an agricultural hub, with farming being the primary industry for residents. Like many rural Nebraska communities, Humphrey thrived during the early 20th century as farmers took advantage of the fertile soil and expanded their operations. However, as the decades passed, Humphrey’s population stabilized and the town became a quiet, rural community. Despite its small size, the village has maintained its character and charm, with many historic buildings and homes dating back to the early 20th century. Today, Humphrey remains a close-knit community, with its economy still based largely on agriculture, particularly grain and livestock production. The village offers a peaceful lifestyle, and its residents take pride in their agricultural roots and small-town heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Humphrey is served by the Humphrey Public Schools district, which includes Humphrey Public School for K-12 education. The school is known for its strong academic program, as well as its commitment to extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and the arts. One of Humphrey’s notable landmarks is the Humphrey Community Center, which is the hub for local events and activities. The center hosts social gatherings, community meetings, and celebrations, including the annual Humphrey Community Picnic. The town also has several historic homes and buildings that reflect its agricultural and early settler history. The surrounding area offers outdoor activities like fishing and hunting, with opportunities to explore nearby parks and recreational areas. Despite its small size, Humphrey’s strong sense of community and rural charm make it a beloved location for its residents and visitors.

Creston

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

• Area: 0.22 square miles
• Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 68631
• Latitude: 41.6078° N
• Longitude: 97.4055° W

Location and History:

Creston is a tiny village located in the eastern part of Platte County, about 10 miles southwest of Columbus. The village was established in the late 19th century and grew as a small agricultural settlement. The town’s early economy was based on farming and ranching, with a focus on grain production and livestock. Much like many other rural communities in Nebraska, Creston’s population was shaped by the expansion of the railroad, which helped local farmers and ranchers ship their products to larger markets. Over time, the village became a quiet farming community, and its population has remained small. Creston is a classic example of a rural Nebraska village that retains much of its historical charm. With its peaceful surroundings, it is a place where residents value a slower pace of life, centered around family, agriculture, and local traditions. While its commercial activity is limited, Creston continues to serve as a welcoming home for those who appreciate the beauty and serenity of rural life.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Creston is part of the Columbus Public Schools district, with students attending schools in Columbus for K-12 education. The district provides a full range of educational services, with a focus on academic achievement and extracurricular activities. Creston itself does not have many commercial establishments, but it has maintained a sense of community through its rural charm and historic structures. A central landmark in Creston is the Creston Community Center, which hosts local events and is a popular venue for social gatherings. The town’s quiet streets are lined with historic homes, many of which reflect the architectural style of the early 20th century. Surrounding Creston, the farmland offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as hiking and nature walks, while the nearby towns provide additional recreational options. Although small, Creston’s strong sense of community and rural atmosphere make it a perfect example of a classic Nebraska village.