Cities and Towns in Porter County, Indiana
Founded on Feb 7, 1835, Porter County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Porter County was formed from un-organized. The city of Valparaiso is the county seat. With FIPS code of 127, Porter County has a population of 174,243 and area of 418 square miles (1,083 km²).
List of all cities in Porter County, IN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beverly Shores, IN | 46301 | 219 |
| Boone Grove, IN | 46302 | 219 |
| Burns Harbor, IN | 46304 | 219 |
| Chesterton, IN | 46304 | 219 |
| Dune Acres, IN | 46304 | 219 |
| Hebron, IN | 46341 | 219 |
| Kouts, IN | 46347 | 219 |
| Ogden Dunes, IN | 46368 | 219 |
| Portage, IN | 46368 | 219 |
| Porter, IN | 46304 | 219 |
| Valparaiso, IN | 46383 | 219 |
| 46384 | 219 | |
| 46385 | 219 | |
| Valpo, IN | 46383 | 219 |
| 46384 | 219 | |
| 46385 | 219 | |
| Wheeler, IN | 46393 | 219 |
Major Cities and Towns in Porter County, Indiana
Valparaiso, Indiana
Overview and History
Valparaiso is the county seat and largest city in Porter County, located in the northwestern part of Indiana. Founded in 1836, the city was originally named Portersville but was later renamed Valparaiso, meaning “Vale of Paradise” in Spanish, after the city in Chile where naval officer David Porter had served. Valparaiso’s early growth was spurred by its position on key transportation routes, including the old Michigan Road and several railroad lines. Over the years, it has developed into a regional hub for education, healthcare, and business. Valparaiso is home to Valparaiso University, a nationally recognized private university, which has been a cornerstone of the city’s identity since its founding in 1859.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Valparaiso is served by the Valparaiso Community Schools, with Valparaiso High School being the primary secondary education institution. Major landmarks include the Porter County Courthouse, built in 1885, and the Memorial Opera House, a historic venue for performances. Valparaiso University’s Chapel of the Resurrection is a significant architectural and cultural landmark. The downtown area features Central Park Plaza, which hosts concerts, a farmers market, and other community events. The nearby Indiana Dunes National Park, located just north of the city, offers hiking, camping, and stunning views of Lake Michigan.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 15.58 square miles
- Population: Approximately 34,151 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 46383, 46385
- Latitude: 41.4731° N
- Longitude: 87.0611° W
Portage, Indiana
Overview and History
Portage is the second-largest city in Porter County, located along the southern shore of Lake Michigan. It was established in the early 1830s as a farming community but experienced significant growth in the mid-20th century due to its proximity to Chicago and the expansion of heavy industry, particularly steel manufacturing. Portage’s economy grew around the steel mills of the nearby Indiana Harbor and Gary area, drawing workers and families to the town. Today, Portage is a suburban city with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Its location near Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes makes it a popular destination for outdoor recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Portage is served by Portage Township Schools, with Portage High School being the main educational institution. Major landmarks include the Portage Lakefront and Riverwalk, part of the Indiana Dunes National Park, offering scenic views of Lake Michigan and access to hiking and beach areas. Imagination Glen Park, the largest park in Portage, features sports fields, playgrounds, and trails for hiking and biking. The city also hosts the annual Portage Community Festival, which brings together residents for food, music, and entertainment.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 27.64 square miles
- Population: Approximately 33,496 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 46368
- Latitude: 41.5759° N
- Longitude: 87.1762° W
Chesterton, Indiana
Overview and History
Chesterton is a small town located in the northern part of Porter County, close to the southern shore of Lake Michigan and the Indiana Dunes National Park. Originally settled in the early 1830s, Chesterton grew as a railroad town in the late 19th century, with several rail lines passing through the area. Its proximity to the Indiana Dunes made it an attractive location for tourists and residents alike. Over time, Chesterton has retained its small-town charm while benefiting from the growth of nearby industrial cities. Its historic downtown district and vibrant arts scene make it a cultural hub in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Chesterton is part of the Duneland School Corporation, with Chesterton High School serving the town’s students. Landmarks include the Indiana Dunes National Park, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and swimming along the sandy beaches of Lake Michigan. The historic downtown area features unique shops, cafes, and galleries, and the annual Chesterton European Market draws visitors from around the region. Coffee Creek Watershed Preserve is another local landmark, offering trails and green spaces for walking, biking, and picnicking.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 9.44 square miles
- Population: Approximately 14,241 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 46304
- Latitude: 41.6109° N
- Longitude: 87.0642° W
Hebron, Indiana
Overview and History
Hebron is a small town in the southern part of Porter County, founded in 1849. The town was named after the biblical town of Hebron and grew primarily as an agricultural center, with many of its early residents working on farms in the surrounding area. Hebron maintained its rural character for much of its history, and while it has grown over the years, it still retains a strong sense of community and small-town charm. Its location near U.S. Route 231 and State Road 2 makes it easily accessible to nearby cities like Valparaiso and Crown Point.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hebron is served by the MSD of Boone Township, with Hebron High School being the central educational institution for local students. Notable landmarks in the town include Hebron Town Park, which provides recreational facilities and hosts community events throughout the year, and the Hebron Depot, a historic train station that reflects the town’s railroad past. The annual Hebron Fourth of July Festival is a key community event, featuring parades, fireworks, and family-friendly activities.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.98 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,724 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 46341
- Latitude: 41.3200° N
- Longitude: 87.2014° W
Kouts, Indiana
Overview and History
Kouts is a small town located in the southeastern part of Porter County. Established in 1865, Kouts developed as a rural farming community, with the railroad playing a key role in its early growth. The town was named after Bernard Kouts, an early settler and local businessman. Kouts remains a quiet, rural town with a strong agricultural base, but its proximity to larger cities like Valparaiso and Crown Point has made it an attractive place for those seeking a peaceful, small-town lifestyle. The town has maintained its historic character and close-knit community feel.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kouts is served by the East Porter County School Corporation, with Kouts High School being the primary school for local students. The town is known for its annual Pork Fest, a festival that celebrates Kouts’ agricultural roots with food, games, and entertainment. Major landmarks include Kouts Park, which offers recreational facilities and hosts town events, and several historic homes that reflect the town’s 19th-century origins. Kouts is also located near the Kankakee River, offering opportunities for fishing and boating.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.06 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,028 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 46347
- Latitude: 41.3150° N
- Longitude: 87.0264° W
Burns Harbor, Indiana
Overview and History
Burns Harbor is a small town located in the northern part of Porter County, along the shores of Lake Michigan. Established in 1966, the town was named after Samuel J. Burns, an early settler in the region. Burns Harbor developed as an industrial town, with much of its economy centered around the steel industry, particularly the ArcelorMittal steel mill (formerly Bethlehem Steel), which has long been a significant employer in the region. Despite its industrial roots, Burns Harbor is known for its scenic beauty due to its location near the Indiana Dunes and Lake Michigan.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Burns Harbor is served by the Duneland School Corporation, with students attending nearby Chesterton High School. Landmarks in the town include the Burns Harbor Marina, which provides access to Lake Michigan for boating and fishing, and the Indiana Dunes National Park, a short drive away, offering hiking trails, beaches, and stunning views of the lake. Burns Harbor also benefits from its proximity to the South Shore Line, providing residents with easy access to Chicago and other parts of northwest Indiana.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 6.78 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,948 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 46304
- Latitude: 41.6161° N
- Longitude: 87.1272° W
