Cities and Towns in Riley County, Kansas
Founded in 1855, Riley County is one of 105 counties in the state of Kansas. Historically, Riley County was one of the original 36 counties. The city of Manhattan is the county seat. With FIPS code of 161, Riley County has a population of 72,208 and area of 610 square miles (1,580 km²).
List of all cities in Riley County, KS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Leonardville, KS | 66449 | 785 |
| Manhattan, KS | 66502 | 785 |
| 66503 | 785 | |
| 66505 | 785 | |
| 66506 | 785 | |
| Ogden, KS | 66517 | 785 |
| Randolph, KS | 66554 | 785 |
| Riley, KS | 66531 | 785 |
Major Cities and Towns in Riley County, Kansas
Manhattan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 19.29 square miles
- Population: Approximately 55,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 66502, 66503
- Latitude: 39.1836° N
- Longitude: 96.5717° W
Location and History
Manhattan, known as “The Little Apple,” is the largest city in Riley County and is located in northeastern Kansas at the junction of the Kansas River and Big Blue River. Established in 1855, Manhattan was originally a free-state settlement formed by abolitionists from New England. The city’s growth accelerated after Kansas State Agricultural College, now Kansas State University (KSU), was established in 1863, making it the first land-grant institution in the U.S. Manhattan developed as an educational and agricultural hub, later becoming known for its military presence due to its proximity to Fort Riley, a major U.S. Army post. Today, the city’s economy is driven by education, research, military, and healthcare sectors, with KSU being the city’s largest employer and cultural center.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Manhattan is served by USD 383, which includes Manhattan High School, several elementary schools, and middle schools. Kansas State University, with its notable programs in agriculture, engineering, and veterinary medicine, is a major landmark. Other landmarks include the Flint Hills Discovery Center, which celebrates the region’s unique tallgrass prairie ecosystem, and the Sunset Zoo. Tuttle Creek State Park offers outdoor recreation, while the Aggieville district provides a vibrant shopping and entertainment scene. The Riley County Historical Museum and the Kansas State Insect Zoo also offer educational attractions, making Manhattan a diverse and lively city with something for everyone.
Ogden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.09 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,000 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 66517
- Latitude: 39.1161° N
- Longitude: 96.7091° W
Location and History
Ogden is a small town located in western Riley County, situated just outside the gates of Fort Riley along the Kansas River. Established in 1857, the town grew rapidly due to its proximity to the military base, which brought soldiers and their families into the community. Originally founded as a support town for Fort Riley, Ogden developed into a tight-knit residential area with strong ties to the military. The town has historically provided housing, services, and entertainment for military personnel and continues to be influenced by the nearby fort, which remains a major contributor to its economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ogden is part of USD 383, and students in the town attend Ogden Elementary School, while older students travel to Manhattan for middle and high school education. The town’s most significant landmark is the Ogden Friendship House of Hope, a community center that provides support services for military families and residents. Ogden also offers outdoor activities with its proximity to the Kansas River and nearby Tuttle Creek State Park. The town’s annual Fourth of July celebration and the Ogden Festival of the Fall are key community events that bring together residents for parades, food, and fireworks, celebrating the town’s military heritage and community spirit.
Riley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.41 square miles
- Population: Approximately 950 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 66531
- Latitude: 39.2989° N
- Longitude: 96.8270° W
Location and History
Riley, a small town in northwestern Riley County, was established in 1871 and named after Fort Riley, which lies southeast of the town. It was originally a stop along the Union Pacific Railroad and grew as an agricultural community, serving the local farming and ranching population. Riley has retained its small-town feel while benefiting from its proximity to Manhattan and Fort Riley. Over the years, the town has remained a rural hub, providing essential services for the surrounding farming areas and serving as a quiet residential community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Riley is part of USD 378, with students attending Riley County High School and Riley County Grade School, both located within the town. The town’s key landmarks include the Riley County Historical Museum, which offers exhibits on the area’s history, and Riley City Park, which serves as a gathering spot for local events and outdoor activities. The town hosts annual celebrations such as Riley Days, featuring a parade, carnival games, and a community barbecue. Riley’s strong connection to agriculture is reflected in local events and the close-knit community atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those who appreciate rural living.
Randolph
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.14 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 66554
- Latitude: 39.4309° N
- Longitude: 96.7673° W
Location and History
Randolph, a tiny town located in northern Riley County, was originally founded in 1856 but was relocated to its current site in 1962 due to the construction of Tuttle Creek Lake. The new reservoir flooded the original town site, forcing residents to move. Despite this upheaval, Randolph rebuilt as a small rural community on higher ground and remains a quiet, agricultural town with scenic views of the surrounding hills and proximity to Tuttle Creek State Park. The town’s history is closely tied to the development of the lake, which provides flood control and recreational opportunities for the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Randolph is part of USD 384, with students attending Blue Valley High School and Randolph Middle School. The town’s major landmark is Tuttle Creek Lake, which offers fishing, boating, camping, and hiking opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Randolph also has a small community park and hosts annual events such as the Randolph Celebration, which includes a parade, live music, and local vendors. The nearby Randolph State Park offers additional recreational options, contributing to the town’s appeal for those who enjoy nature and quiet rural living.
Leonardville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.25 square miles
- Population: Approximately 450 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 66449
- Latitude: 39.3617° N
- Longitude: 96.8581° W
Location and History
Leonardville, located in northwestern Riley County, was founded in 1881 and named after Leonard Haug, one of the town’s original settlers. The town developed as a small agricultural community, with wheat and corn farming being central to its economy. Over the years, Leonardville has maintained its rural character, serving as a local hub for the surrounding farming population. Despite its small size, Leonardville is known for its welcoming community and active participation in local events. The town has continued to thrive by preserving its agricultural roots while embracing modern conveniences.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Leonardville is part of USD 378, and students attend Riley County High School and Riley County Grade School, both located nearby. Key landmarks in Leonardville include the Leonardville City Park, which serves as a venue for community events and outdoor activities. The Leonardville Cafe, a local favorite, has gained regional fame for its home-cooked meals and small-town charm. Each year, the town hosts the Leonardville Hullabaloo, a festival that features a parade, games, and live entertainment, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage and community spirit. The surrounding countryside provides scenic views and opportunities for outdoor recreation, making Leonardville an ideal spot for those who appreciate rural Kansas living.
Keats
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.10 square miles
- Population: Approximately 100 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 66544
- Latitude: 39.2158° N
- Longitude: 96.6827° W
Location and History
Keats is a small, unincorporated community located just west of Manhattan in Riley County. Founded in 1887, the town was named after the English poet John Keats, reflecting the literary interests of its early settlers. Keats developed as an agricultural community, with wheat and livestock farming as the primary industries. Over the years, Keats has remained a quiet rural town, offering residents a peaceful lifestyle with close proximity to Manhattan’s amenities. The town’s agricultural roots continue to play an important role in the local economy and culture.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Keats is part of USD 383, with students attending schools in Manhattan. The town’s major landmark is the Keats Park, a small community park that serves as a gathering place for local events and outdoor activities. The Keats United Methodist Church, established in the late 19th century, remains a central institution in the community. Each year, Keats hosts a community picnic and holiday events that bring together residents and visitors. The town’s close proximity to Manhattan and Tuttle Creek Lake offers additional recreational opportunities, making Keats a desirable location for those seeking a blend of rural charm and access to urban conveniences.
