Cities and Towns in Pottawattamie County, Iowa

Founded on Feb 24, 1847, Pottawattamie County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Pottawattamie County was formed from Native American lands. The city of Council Bluffs is the county seat. With FIPS code of 155, Pottawattamie County has a population of 93,304 and area of 954 square miles (2,471 km²).

List of all cities in Pottawattamie County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Avoca, IA	51521	712
Carson, IA	51525	712
Carter Lake, IA	51510	712
Council Bluffs, IA	51501	712
	51502	712
	51503	712
Crescent, IA	51526	712
Hancock, IA	51536	712
Honey Creek, IA	51542	712
Macedonia, IA	51549	712
Manawa, IA	51501	712
McClelland, IA	51548	712
Minden, IA	51553	712
Neola, IA	51559	712
Oakland, IA	51560	712
Shelby, IA	51570	712
Treynor, IA	51575	712
Underwood, IA	51576	712
Walnut, IA	51577	712

Major Cities and Towns in Pottawattamie County, Iowa

Council Bluffs

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 43.62 square miles
• Population: Approximately 63,000 (as of 2023)
• Zip Codes: 51501, 51503
• Latitude: 41.2619° N
• Longitude: 95.8608° W

City Location and History

Council Bluffs, located along the Missouri River in western Iowa, is the largest city in Pottawattamie County and part of the Omaha-Council Bluffs metropolitan area. The city was originally known as Kanesville, named after Mormon leader Thomas L. Kane, and served as a major settlement for Mormon pioneers during their westward migration. In 1853, the town was renamed Council Bluffs, reflecting the area where Lewis and Clark met with Native American tribes in 1804. Council Bluffs flourished as a transportation hub due to its location at the eastern terminus of the Union Pacific Railroad and its proximity to the Missouri River. Over the years, it has grown into a key economic center, with industries ranging from agriculture to manufacturing and tourism.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Council Bluffs is served by the Council Bluffs Community School District, which includes Abraham Lincoln and Thomas Jefferson High Schools. Iowa Western Community College, a prominent higher education institution, is also located in the city. Major landmarks include the historic Union Pacific Railroad Museum and the Golden Spike Monument, commemorating the city’s role in the transcontinental railroad. The Lewis and Clark Monument Park offers scenic views of the Missouri River and Omaha. Lake Manawa State Park, a popular recreational area, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, while the Mid-America Center hosts concerts, sporting events, and conferences.

Carter Lake

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.02 square miles
• Population: Approximately 3,800 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51510
• Latitude: 41.2839° N
• Longitude: 95.9172° W

City Location and History

Carter Lake is a unique city in Pottawattamie County, located on the western side of the Missouri River but physically surrounded by Nebraska due to a shift in the river’s course after a flood in 1877. Originally part of Iowa, Carter Lake remained on the Nebraska side of the river after the flood, leading to legal disputes between Iowa and Nebraska that were settled by the U.S. Supreme Court, confirming Carter Lake as part of Iowa. The town was incorporated in 1930 and is known for its namesake lake, a remnant of the river’s old path, which has shaped its recreational identity.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carter Lake is part of the Council Bluffs Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Council Bluffs. The centerpiece of the town is Carter Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities, attracting both locals and visitors. The Carter Lake Improvement Club and local parks provide spaces for community events and outdoor activities. The town’s proximity to both Council Bluffs and Omaha makes it a desirable location for residents who want a small-town atmosphere while being close to urban amenities. Levi Carter Park, located on the Nebraska side, also enhances the area’s recreational appeal.

Avoca

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.12 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,500 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51521
• Latitude: 41.4778° N
• Longitude: 95.3389° W

City Location and History

Avoca is located in eastern Pottawattamie County along Interstate 80, serving as a key stop for travelers between Des Moines and Omaha. The town was founded in 1869 and named after the River Avoca in Ireland, reflecting the heritage of its early settlers. Avoca grew rapidly due to its strategic location on the Chicago, Rock Island, and Pacific Railroad, which made it an important transportation and agricultural hub. The town’s economy has long been centered around farming, with corn and soybeans being the primary crops. Today, Avoca maintains its small-town charm while providing services for travelers along the interstate.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Avoca is part of the AHSTW (Avoca, Hancock, Shelby, Tennant, and Walnut) Community School District, with AHSTW High School located in the town. Major landmarks include the Avoca Historical Society Museum, which preserves the town’s history, and Edgington Memorial Park, offering recreational amenities such as walking trails, playgrounds, and sports fields. The Old Main Street district features several historic buildings and local businesses, contributing to Avoca’s charm. The annual Avoca Heritage Days celebration brings the community together for parades, live music, and family activities, reflecting the town’s pride in its history and community spirit.

Oakland

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.56 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,500 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51560
• Latitude: 41.3089° N
• Longitude: 95.3958° W

City Location and History

Oakland is located in northeastern Pottawattamie County, along the West Nishnabotna River. Founded in 1880, Oakland quickly developed as a service center for the surrounding farming communities. The town was named after the large oak trees that lined the area. Agriculture has always been the backbone of Oakland’s economy, with local farmers producing corn, soybeans, and livestock. Over the years, Oakland has grown into a vibrant small town with a strong sense of community, while maintaining its agricultural roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oakland is part of the Riverside Community School District, with Riverside High School serving students from Oakland and nearby towns. The town is home to several landmarks, including Chautauqua Park, which hosts community events and outdoor concerts during the summer. The Oakland Riverside Museum preserves the history of the town and the surrounding area, featuring exhibits on local agriculture and early settler life. The West Nishnabotna River provides opportunities for fishing and canoeing, adding to Oakland’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. The annual Oakland Fall Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, a farmers market, and family-friendly activities.

Treynor

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.67 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,000 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51575
• Latitude: 41.2339° N
• Longitude: 95.6089° W

City Location and History

Treynor is located in southwestern Pottawattamie County, approximately 20 miles east of Council Bluffs. The town was established in 1881 and named after an early settler, Charles Treynor. Treynor developed as a small farming community, with agriculture being the cornerstone of its economy. Over the years, the town has retained its rural character while growing steadily as a desirable residential community, with many residents commuting to nearby Council Bluffs or Omaha for work. Despite its proximity to larger cities, Treynor maintains a quiet, close-knit atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Treynor is served by the Treynor Community School District, with Treynor High School being a focal point for education and community activities. Key landmarks include the Treynor Recreation Area, which offers sports fields, a golf course, and picnic areas for residents to enjoy. The community is known for its strong school spirit, with local sports teams often drawing large crowds for games and events. The town’s annual Treynor Days celebration includes parades, games, and live entertainment, highlighting the community’s pride in its small-town values and traditions. Nearby, the Loess Hills offer scenic drives and hiking opportunities.

Underwood

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.68 square miles
• Population: Approximately 950 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51576
• Latitude: 41.3922° N
• Longitude: 95.6747° W

City Location and History

Underwood is located in northwestern Pottawattamie County, close to the Loess Hills and about 10 miles northeast of Council Bluffs. The town was established in 1883 and named after William Underwood, a prominent local farmer and businessman. Like many small towns in Iowa, Underwood developed as an agricultural community, with corn and soybean farming playing central roles in the local economy. Over the years, Underwood has grown as a quiet residential community, attracting families seeking a rural lifestyle within commuting distance of Council Bluffs and Omaha.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Underwood is part of the Underwood Community School District, with Underwood High School being a key institution in the town. Major landmarks include the Underwood City Park, which provides recreational spaces, including playgrounds and sports facilities. The Underwood Optimist Club organizes various community events, including the popular Underwood Harvest Festival, which features parades, a farmers market, and family-friendly activities. The town’s location near the Loess Hills offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, birdwatching, and scenic drives through the unique geological landscape. Underwood’s strong sense of community and rural charm make it an attractive place for families.

Crescent

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.11 square miles
• Population: Approximately 600 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 51526
• Latitude: 41.3658° N
• Longitude: 95.8583° W

City Location and History

Crescent is a small town located in the southwestern part of Pottawattamie County, just north of Council Bluffs. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and was named for its crescent-shaped location along the Missouri River floodplain. Crescent has long been a quiet, rural community, with its economy historically centered on farming. Due to its proximity to Council Bluffs and Omaha, Crescent has become a popular residential area for commuters seeking a small-town lifestyle with easy access to urban amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crescent is part of the Council Bluffs Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Council Bluffs. Key landmarks in Crescent include the Hitchcock Nature Center, located in the nearby Loess Hills, which offers hiking trails, wildlife observation, and educational programs about the area’s unique ecosystem. The town’s Crescent City Park is a local gathering spot for picnics and outdoor activities. Crescent also hosts an annual Crescent Days festival, featuring parades, games, and community events that bring together residents and visitors. The town’s close-knit community and scenic surroundings make it a desirable place to live.