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Cities and Towns in Racine County, Wisconsin

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Founded in 1836, Racine County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Racine County was formed from Milwaukee County. The city of Racine is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Racine County has a population of 196,896 and area of 332.5 square miles (861 km²).

 

List of all cities in Racine County, WI alphabetically

  • Burlington, WI
  • Caledonia, WI
  • Franksville, WI
  • Kansasville, WI
  • Racine, WI
  • Rochester, WI
  • Sturtevant, WI
  • Union Grove, WI
  • Waterford, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Racine County, Wisconsin

Racine

  • Area: 15.49 square miles
  • Population: 77,816 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53401, 53402, 53403, 53404, 53405, 53406
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.7261° N, 87.7829° W

Location and History

Racine is located on the shores of Lake Michigan in southeastern Wisconsin, about 25 miles south of Milwaukee. Founded in 1834, Racine rapidly developed due to its strategic location on the lake, which facilitated shipping and trade. The city became a manufacturing powerhouse in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with industries ranging from farm machinery to automotive parts. Racine is notably the birthplace of several major companies, including J.I. Case and S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. The city’s diverse population has contributed to a rich cultural tapestry, with historic districts and architectural landmarks, including several designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Racine is served by the Racine Unified School District, which includes several high schools such as Case High School and Park High School. The city is also home to Gateway Technical College, providing higher education opportunities. Notable landmarks in Racine include the Wind Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest and tallest active lighthouses on the Great Lakes, and the Racine Art Museum, known for its contemporary craft collection. North Beach, located along Lake Michigan, is a popular destination for both locals and visitors, offering beautiful views and recreational activities.

Burlington

  • Area: 7.92 square miles
  • Population: 11,047 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53105
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.6786° N, 88.2776° W

Location and History

Burlington is located in the western part of Racine County, near the Fox River. The city was originally settled in 1835 and was first known as Foxville. In 1839, it was renamed Burlington after Burlington, Vermont, by one of its founders, Moses Smith. Burlington’s early economy was based on agriculture, with the Fox River providing water power for mills and other industries. The city is known for its historic downtown, which has retained much of its 19th-century charm, with brick buildings and tree-lined streets. Today, Burlington is known as “Chocolate City USA,” thanks to the presence of Nestlé and the city’s annual ChocolateFest.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Burlington is served by the Burlington Area School District, which includes Burlington High School. A notable institution is the Catholic Central High School, providing parochial education. Key landmarks include Echo Park, which offers scenic views of Echo Lake and is a hub for community events. The city’s historic downtown is another significant area, featuring the Plaza Theater, an art deco movie theater from the 1920s. The Burlington Historical Society Museum, housed in a former church, preserves the city’s history through exhibits and collections.

Mount Pleasant

  • Area: 35.35 square miles
  • Population: 27,732 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53177, 53403, 53406
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.7272° N, 87.8586° W

Location and History

Mount Pleasant is a village located just west of Racine, with much of its eastern border running along Lake Michigan. The village was officially established in 1842 and has since grown into one of the largest municipalities in Racine County. Mount Pleasant has traditionally been a rural community, but its proximity to Racine and the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor has driven significant residential and commercial development in recent decades. The village is currently undergoing rapid growth, particularly due to the construction of the Foxconn Technology Group’s manufacturing plant, which has attracted new businesses and residents to the area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mount Pleasant is part of the Racine Unified School District, with students attending schools like Case High School in nearby Racine. The village is home to several parks, including Smolenski Park, which offers trails, picnic areas, and sports facilities. A major landmark in Mount Pleasant is the Pike River Pathway, a scenic trail that runs along the Pike River, providing recreational opportunities for walking, biking, and nature observation. The village also has a growing business district, with new developments driven by the Foxconn project.

Sturtevant

  • Area: 2.78 square miles
  • Population: 6,970 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53177
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.6984° N, 87.8947° W

Location and History

Sturtevant is a village located in the central part of Racine County, just west of Racine and Mount Pleasant. The village was originally known as “Western Union Junction,” named after the railroad junction that was established there in the 1870s. Sturtevant grew around the railroads, which played a central role in its development as a transportation hub. In 1923, the village was renamed Sturtevant in honor of Charles Sturtevant, a local businessman who was influential in the community. Today, Sturtevant is known for its industrial parks and easy access to major highways, making it an attractive location for businesses.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sturtevant is served by the Racine Unified School District, with students typically attending schools in neighboring communities. The village is home to the Renaissance Business Park, which hosts a variety of industries and companies. A significant landmark in Sturtevant is the Amtrak station, which connects the village to Milwaukee, Chicago, and other regional destinations. The village also features Fireman’s Park, a local green space that hosts community events and provides recreational facilities. Additionally, the village is adjacent to the Racine County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual county fair and other events throughout the year.

Waterford

  • Area: 2.53 square miles
  • Population: 5,571 (as of the 2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 53185
  • Latitude and Longitude: 42.7642° N, 88.2148° W

Location and History

Waterford is located in the northwestern part of Racine County, along the Fox River. The village was established in the 1830s and was named after Waterford, Vermont, by its early settlers. Waterford grew as a small agricultural and milling community, with the Fox River providing a reliable source of water power. The village has retained much of its small-town charm while experiencing growth in residential and commercial development, particularly in recent years. The historic downtown area, with its well-preserved buildings and scenic river views, is a focal point for the community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Waterford is served by the Waterford Union High School District, with Waterford Union High School being the main educational institution in the village. The village is known for its historic downtown, where the Waterford Heritage District showcases the area’s 19th-century architecture. Major landmarks include the Ten Club Park, which offers picturesque views of the Fox River and hosts community events. The Fox River itself is a significant natural feature, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other recreational activities. Waterford also hosts the annual Balloonfest, a popular event featuring hot air balloon rides, live music, and family-friendly activities.

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