Cities and Towns in Polk County, Minnesota
Founded in 1858, Polk County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Polk County was formed from Pembina County. The city of Crookston is the county seat. With FIPS code of 119, Polk County has a population of 30,757 and area of 1,970.37 square miles (5,103 km²).
List of all cities in Polk County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beltrami, MN | 56517 | 218 |
| Climax, MN | 56523 | 218 |
| Crookston, MN | 56716 | 218 |
| East G Forks, MN | 56721 | 218 |
| East Grand Forks, MN | 56721 | 218 |
| Eldred, MN | 56523 | 218 |
| Erskine, MN | 56535 | 218 |
| Euclid, MN | 56722 | 218 |
| Fertile, MN | 56540 | 218 |
| Fisher, MN | 56723 | 218 |
| Fosston, MN | 56542 | 218 |
| Gentilly, MN | 56716 | 218 |
| Gully, MN | 56646 | 218 |
| McIntosh, MN | 56556 | 218 |
| Mentor, MN | 56736 | 218 |
| Nielsville, MN | 56568 | 218 |
| Olga, MN | 56646 | 218 |
| Rindal, MN | 56540 | 218 |
| Trail, MN | 56684 | 218 |
| Winger, MN | 56592 | 218 |
Major Cities and Towns in Polk County, Minnesota
Polk County, located in the northwestern corner of Minnesota, is known for its vast farmlands, fertile soil, and vibrant natural landscapes. The county seat, Crookston, is one of the key hubs in the region, offering a blend of agricultural, cultural, and recreational opportunities. Other significant towns and cities in Polk County, such as East Grand Forks, Fertile, and McIntosh, add to the area’s diverse character. The county has a strong agricultural foundation, with corn, soybeans, and wheat being the primary crops grown, but it also boasts a rich history tied to early settlement and development. Its proximity to the Red River of the North gives it both natural beauty and historical significance.
1. Crookston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 9.85 square miles
- Population: 7,800 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56716
- Latitude: 47.7801° N
- Longitude: 96.6050° W
Location and History:
Crookston, the county seat of Polk County, is located in the western part of the county, about 25 miles southeast of Grand Forks, North Dakota. The city was founded in 1872 and named after William Crooks, a railroad executive. Early settlers came to the area in the late 1800s, attracted by the fertile land and the establishment of the Saint Paul, Minneapolis and Manitoba Railroad, which brought greater economic opportunities to the region. Agriculture has always been the foundation of Crookston’s economy, with wheat, corn, and other crops being cultivated in the surrounding area.
In the early 20th century, Crookston became known for its sugar beet industry, and it remains an important agricultural hub in the region. Over the years, the city has grown into a center for education, culture, and healthcare. Despite its small size, Crookston has a rich history tied to the Red River Valley, and many historical buildings and landmarks can be found throughout the city.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Crookston is home to the University of Minnesota Crookston (UMC), a branch of the University of Minnesota system that offers undergraduate degrees and specialized programs. The city’s Crookston High School and Riverside Elementary School are part of the Crookston School District. Education is highly valued in Crookston, with a focus on both academic excellence and extracurricular activities.
Key landmarks in Crookston include the Polk County Museum, which showcases the history of the area, including the early settlement and agricultural development. The Gleason Park and Pioneer Village offer outdoor spaces for recreation, with trails and historical exhibits. Another important site is the Heritage Acres, a museum dedicated to the history of farming and rural life in the region. The Red Lake River, which flows through the city, is also a popular spot for fishing and boating.
2. East Grand Forks
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 7.14 square miles
- Population: 8,500 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56721
- Latitude: 47.9295° N
- Longitude: 97.0501° W
Location and History:
East Grand Forks, located along the Red River of the North, is directly across the river from Grand Forks, North Dakota, and serves as a sister city. It was incorporated in 1887 and grew rapidly as a result of its location near the river, making it a central hub for trade and transportation. Like many towns in the region, East Grand Forks’ economy has historically been tied to agriculture, with farming, sugar beet production, and grain milling being key industries.
The city’s proximity to the Red River has always been crucial to its development, as the river played a significant role in transportation and commerce. East Grand Forks has grown into a residential community with a strong local economy, supported by retail businesses, manufacturing, and services. The devastating 1997 Red River Flood was a pivotal event in the city’s history, and since then, significant flood protection measures have been implemented, which has allowed for revitalization and continued growth.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
East Grand Forks is part of the East Grand Forks School District, with East Grand Forks Senior High School and North Valley High School serving the community’s older students. The district also includes Hennepin Elementary School and Sacred Heart Catholic School. These schools emphasize academic achievement, athletics, and community involvement.
Landmarks in East Grand Forks include The Red River, which is a major focal point for the city. The river is used for fishing, boating, and recreational activities, with the Red River State Recreation Area providing trails and scenic views. Another major site is the Grand Forks County Historical Society Museum, which is dedicated to preserving the area’s rich history. East Grand Forks is also home to the Civic Center, where local events, concerts, and sports activities take place. The Northeast Regional Corrections Center is another landmark in the region, providing employment opportunities and community service initiatives.
3. Fertile
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: 1,600 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56540
- Latitude: 47.5736° N
- Longitude: 95.8039° W
Location and History:
Fertile is a small town located in the eastern part of Polk County, approximately 35 miles south of Crookston. The town was founded in 1879, and its name reflects the area’s rich, fertile soil, which is ideal for agriculture. Early settlers were attracted by the land’s potential for farming, and the town quickly became a center for agricultural trade. Fertile grew slowly in its early years but has remained an important agricultural community in the region.
Over time, Fertile has evolved to include other industries, including retail and manufacturing. The town is now a quiet, residential community with a small-town atmosphere. Fertile’s economy is still closely tied to farming, and the town celebrates its agricultural roots with events like the Fertile Fair, which highlights local produce, livestock, and crafts. The town is part of the Fertile-Beltrami School District, which serves the surrounding rural communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Fertile is served by the Fertile-Beltrami School District, with Fertile-Beltrami High School providing educational opportunities for secondary students. The district is known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, with a variety of extracurricular programs available to students.
Key landmarks in Fertile include the Fertile Depot, which houses the Fertile Historical Society Museum and offers insights into the town’s early railroad history. The Red River Valley Fairgrounds is another major location, where the community gathers for events, fairs, and celebrations. Fertile is also located near the Red River, making it a great spot for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. The town also boasts several parks and green spaces, such as the Fertile City Park, where residents can enjoy picnicking, sports, and walking trails.
4. McIntosh
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: 400 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 56556
- Latitude: 47.6115° N
- Longitude: 95.8624° W
Location and History:
McIntosh is a small town located in the central part of Polk County, situated along U.S. Highway 2. It was established in the early 1900s and quickly became a farming community. Like many towns in the area, McIntosh owes its growth to the fertile soil and favorable climate for agriculture, particularly wheat, barley, and oats. Over time, the town became an important local service center, providing goods and services to the surrounding rural population.
Though it remains small in size, McIntosh has a strong sense of community and is known for its rural charm. Its quiet residential atmosphere and proximity to larger cities like Crookston make it an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities. McIntosh continues to be an agricultural hub, though it has diversified its economy with small businesses and services.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
McIntosh is part of the Fertile-Beltrami School District, with students attending schools in nearby Fertile. The school district offers a strong educational foundation, including athletics, arts programs, and a focus on community involvement.
The town is home to several parks and green spaces, including McIntosh City Park, which provides picnic areas and sports facilities for residents and visitors. The Red River is also nearby, making it a prime spot for outdoor activities like fishing and boating. McIntosh’s rural setting and quiet atmosphere offer a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors who appreciate the slower pace of country life.
