Cities and Towns in Putnam County, New York

Founded in 1812, Putnam County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Putnam County was formed from Dutchess County. The city of Carmel Hamlet is the county seat. With FIPS code of 79, Putnam County has a population of 97,936 and area of 246 square miles (637 km²).

List of all cities in Putnam County, NY alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Adams Corners, NY	10579	845
Brewster, NY	10509	845
Carmel, NY	10512	845
Cold Spring, NY	10516	845
Crofts Corners, NY	10579	845
Garrison, NY	10524	845
Kent Lakes, NY	10512	845
Lake Carmel, NY	10512	845
Lake Lincolnd, NY	10541	845
Lake Lincolndale, NY	10541	845
Lake Mahopac, NY	10541	845
Lake Peekskill, NY	10537	845
Lake Secor, NY	10541	845
Mahopac, NY	10541	845
Mahopac Falls, NY	10542	845
Manitou, NY	10524	845
Nelsonville, NY	10516	845
North Highland, NY	10516	845
Oscawana Lake, NY	10579	845
Patterson, NY	12563	845
Philipstown, NY	10516	845
Putnam Valley, NY	10579	845
Sears Corners, NY	10509	845
Southeast, NY	10509	845
Tompkins Corners, NY	10579	845

Major Cities and Towns in Putnam County, New York

Carmel

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 43.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 34,000 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 10512, 10541, 10542
• Latitude: 41.4036° N
• Longitude: 73.7462° W

City Location and History

Carmel is the county seat of Putnam County, located in the central part of the county. The town is situated along the shores of Lake Mahopac, one of the largest bodies of water in the area, and is about 50 miles north of New York City. Carmel’s history dates back to the early 1700s when it was first settled by Dutch and English colonists. It was formally established as a town in 1795, with its development driven by agriculture and trade. In the 19th century, the town became more industrialized, with the construction of the Putnam Railroad in the 1840s improving transportation links. During this time, Carmel also became known for its large, picturesque estates. Over the years, Carmel transitioned from a rural community into a suburban town as New York City expanded. Today, it is a blend of suburban residential areas and scenic natural spaces, offering a rural atmosphere while being close to urban amenities. The town’s location near several state parks and the Adirondack Mountain range makes it a popular area for outdoor activities, attracting residents and tourists alike.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Carmel is served by the Carmel Central School District, which includes Carmel High School, known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs, including athletics and the arts. The district also operates Mahopac High School and several elementary and middle schools. Key landmarks in Carmel include Lake Mahopac, which offers boating, fishing, and scenic views, and the Putnam County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the administrative heart of the county. The Boscobel House and Gardens, located in nearby Garrison, is another notable landmark, offering visitors a glimpse of early American architecture and beautiful gardens. Additionally, Carmel’s Heritage Trail and the Carmel Town Park provide recreational spaces for residents, while Dutchess Manor offers picturesque views of the Hudson River. The town is also known for its historical buildings and cemeteries, which reflect its long history. Carmel’s proximity to both the natural beauty of the Hudson Valley and the economic opportunities of New York City make it a popular place to live and visit.

Kent

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 35.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 13,000 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 10512, 10524, 10538
• Latitude: 41.4879° N
• Longitude: 73.7783° W

City Location and History

Kent is located in the northwestern part of Putnam County, bordered by the town of Carmel to the south and the Connecticut state line to the east. The town’s earliest history dates back to the mid-1700s when it was first settled by Dutch and English colonists. Kent was officially established as a town in 1795, and its location along the Hudson River and its proximity to New York City made it an attractive area for agriculture, milling, and later, the railroad. The town experienced significant growth during the 19th century with the construction of the New York and Harlem Railroad, which brought greater connectivity to New York City. While agriculture remained important in the area, Kent also became a popular summer retreat for New Yorkers, especially wealthy families who built large estates. Kent maintains much of its rural character, with its stunning natural landscapes of forests, lakes, and rivers, making it a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, boating, and fishing. The town’s scenic beauty and peaceful environment, combined with its close proximity to New York City, make it a sought-after location for both residents and tourists.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kent is served by the Kent Central School District, which includes Kent Primary School and Carmel High School, both of which are well-regarded in the area for their academic programs. The district offers a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts. Kent’s natural beauty is one of its main attractions, with landmarks such as The Great Swamp, a wildlife preserve and wetland area that offers birdwatching, hiking, and nature walks. The Canopus Lake and Squantz Pond State Park are also popular locations for recreational activities, providing opportunities for boating, swimming, and hiking. Kent is also home to Lake Carmel, a serene, small lake that serves as a hub for community activities. The Tilly Foster Farm Museum, a historic farmstead that dates back to the 19th century, offers educational programs and events. Kent’s quaint, historic town center includes old buildings and churches, such as The Kent Congregational Church, which reflects the town’s early history. The rural, natural landscapes of Kent combined with its rich history make it a tranquil yet vibrant community.

Putnam Valley

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 35.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 12,000 (2020 census)
• Zip Codes: 10579, 10567
• Latitude: 41.3643° N
• Longitude: 73.8776° W

City Location and History

Putnam Valley is located in the southwestern part of Putnam County, situated between the towns of Carmel and Kent, with the Hudson River to the west and the Connecticut border to the east. Established in 1821, Putnam Valley was originally part of the town of Philipstown and was later separated to form its own town. The area was sparsely settled until the 19th century, with agriculture and small-scale industry serving as the primary economic activities. In the 20th century, the town became increasingly popular as a rural retreat for residents of New York City, many of whom built summer homes or second residences in the area. The town remains predominantly residential today, with large areas of preserved forest, lakes, and streams contributing to its rural and natural charm. The town’s landscape is characterized by hills, woods, and several small lakes, including Lake Oscawana, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Putnam Valley retains much of its rural character while still being easily accessible to New York City, making it a sought-after community for those seeking a quiet, nature-focused lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Putnam Valley is served by the Putnam Valley Central School District, which includes Putnam Valley High School and several elementary schools. The district emphasizes academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Putnam Valley’s natural beauty is its biggest asset, with Lake Oscawana and Lake Peekskill providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and hiking. The Fahnestock State Park, which spans over 2,000 acres, offers trails for hiking, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The town also features the Putnam Valley Historical Society Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the area’s history, and The Old Putnam Trail, an abandoned railroad bed that has been converted into a popular hiking trail. The Putnam Valley Nature Preserve is another key landmark, offering wildlife habitat and trails for outdoor activities. The town’s rural atmosphere, combined with its natural attractions and historical sites, makes it a peaceful and family-friendly place to live. Its proximity to the larger metropolitan area offers the best of both worlds—tranquility and accessibility.