Cities and Towns in Scott County, Minnesota
Founded in 1853, Scott County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Scott County was formed from Dakota County. The city of Shakopee is the county seat. With FIPS code of 139, Scott County has a population of 153,268 and area of 356.68 square miles (924 km²).
List of all cities in Scott County, MN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Belle Plaine, MN | 56011 | 952 |
Elko, MN | 55020 | 952 |
Heidelberg, MN | 56071 | 952 |
Jordan, MN | 55352 | 952 |
New Market, MN | 55054 | 952 |
New Prague, MN | 56071 | 952 |
Prior Lake, MN | 55372 | 952 |
55379 | 952 | |
Savage, MN | 55378 | 952 |
Shakopee, MN | 55372 | 952 |
55379 | 952 |
Major Cities and Towns in Scott County, Minnesota
Scott County is located in the southeastern part of the Twin Cities metropolitan area in Minnesota. It is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, driven by its proximity to the urban core of Minneapolis-St. Paul while still offering a suburban or rural lifestyle. Scott County’s largest city, Shakopee, serves as the county seat and is known for its historic attractions, while other communities like Prior Lake, Jordan, and Savage also contribute to the county’s appeal. With a mix of rich history, recreational opportunities, and excellent schools, Scott County continues to attract both families and businesses alike. Below are details about the major cities and towns in Scott County.
1. Shakopee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 27.1 square miles
- Population: 43,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 55379
- Latitude: 44.7986° N
- Longitude: 93.5268° W
Location and History:
Shakopee, the largest city and county seat of Scott County, is located along the Minnesota River in the southeastern part of the county. The area was originally inhabited by the Dakota Sioux before European settlers arrived in the 1850s. Shakopee was named after Chief Shakopee, a leader of the Mdewakanton Dakota Sioux. The city has a rich history, with early development driven by its strategic location along the river and the arrival of railroads in the late 1800s.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Shakopee became an industrial center, with the development of flour mills and other manufacturing industries. The city’s growth surged in the 1980s and 1990s as it transitioned from a rural town to a suburban community, partly due to its proximity to the growing Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. Shakopee is now known for its family-friendly atmosphere, recreational activities, and historic sites.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Shakopee is served by the Shakopee Public School District, which includes Shakopee High School, Shakopee West Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs, extracurricular activities, and athletics.
Key landmarks in Shakopee include Valleyfair Amusement Park, one of the largest amusement parks in the region, which draws thousands of visitors each year. The Mystic Lake Casino, located just outside the city, is a major entertainment hub. The Scott County Historical Society Museum offers exhibits on the area’s history, including Native American heritage and the early settler period. Shakopee’s Historic Downtown District features a mix of historic buildings, local shops, and restaurants. The Minnesota River provides recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking along its scenic banks.
2. Prior Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 24.7 square miles
- Population: 27,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 55372
- Latitude: 44.7153° N
- Longitude: 93.4006° W
Location and History:
Prior Lake is a suburban city located to the southwest of Shakopee and is known for its beautiful lake, also named Prior Lake, which is a focal point for recreational activities. The area was settled by European immigrants in the mid-1800s, and the city’s development grew around agriculture and the natural beauty of its lakes and woodlands. Prior Lake’s name comes from its location on a glacial lake, which was once referred to as Lake Prior by early settlers.
The city was originally a farming community, but after World War II, Prior Lake began to experience suburban growth, especially with the expansion of the Twin Cities metropolitan area. The city is now a popular residential area for commuters, with a mix of lakeside properties, suburban neighborhoods, and parks. It retains a strong connection to its natural surroundings and is known for its recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Prior Lake is part of the Prior Lake-Savage Area School District, which includes Prior Lake High School, Twin Oaks Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is recognized for its high academic standards, a wide range of extracurricular activities, and excellent sports programs.
Prior Lake itself is a major landmark, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports. Cleary Lake Regional Park and The Meadows at Mystic Lake Golf Course are popular spots for outdoor recreation. The Prior Lake Historical Society maintains several exhibits, including the city’s early settlement and Native American history. The Prior Lake Veterans Memorial in downtown Prior Lake honors local veterans, while Sand Point Beach offers a scenic spot for summer picnics and swimming. The city also hosts several annual events, including the Prior Lake Fourth of July Celebration and Prior Lake Farmers Market.
3. Jordan
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 4.3 square miles
- Population: 7,500 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 55352
- Latitude: 44.6075° N
- Longitude: 93.6050° W
Location and History:
Jordan, located in the southwestern part of Scott County, is a small town with a rich history tied to the agricultural development of the area. It was settled in the 1850s, and like many small towns in Minnesota, it grew as a center for farming. The town is named after Jordan Creek, which flows through the area and was named after the biblical Jordan River.
Jordan’s economy has historically been based on farming, but in recent years, it has also developed into a commuter town as suburban growth from the Minneapolis-St. Paul area has expanded. Despite its growth, Jordan has maintained its small-town feel and historic character. The city continues to celebrate its agricultural roots and is home to several historic sites, parks, and cultural events.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Jordan is served by the Jordan Public Schools District, which includes Jordan High School and Jordan Middle School. The district emphasizes academic excellence and provides a range of extracurricular activities, including sports and arts programs.
Major landmarks in Jordan include the Scott County Fairgrounds, where the annual Scott County Fair is held, featuring livestock exhibitions, rides, and local entertainment. The Jordan Historical Society preserves the town’s history, and The Jordan Depot Museum offers a look at the town’s role in the railroad industry. Lake Jordan and Riverside Park provide outdoor recreation opportunities like fishing, hiking, and picnicking. The Minnesota River Valley offers scenic views and opportunities for wildlife watching. Jordan also hosts the annual Jordan Hot Air Balloon Festival, which draws visitors from around the region.
4. Savage
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 7.4 square miles
- Population: 30,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 55378
- Latitude: 44.7794° N
- Longitude: 93.3969° W
Location and History:
Savage, located to the southeast of Bloomington, is a growing city that was founded in the mid-1800s. It was originally a small town along the Minnesota River and was named after William Savage, a prominent figure in the lumber industry. Savage’s early economy was heavily based on the lumber trade, as the city was located near timber reserves and had access to river transport for shipping goods.
Over the years, Savage transitioned from an industrial hub to a residential community, with many suburban developments beginning in the late 20th century. The city’s location near major highways and its proximity to the Twin Cities made it a desirable place for families seeking a suburban lifestyle while still being close to urban amenities. Today, Savage is a suburban city known for its schools, parks, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Savage is served by the Prior Lake-Savage Area School District, which includes Prior Lake High School (located in Savage), Redtail Ridge Elementary, and Savage Elementary School. The district is known for its high academic standards, as well as its athletics and arts programs.
Key landmarks in Savage include Murphy-Hanrehan Park Reserve, a large park offering hiking, biking, and cross-country skiing trails, as well as wildlife viewing areas. Savage Community Park features baseball fields, playgrounds, and a pond for fishing and picnicking. The Minnesota River Bluffs Regional Trail offers beautiful views of the river and is popular for biking and hiking. The Savage Depot is a historic landmark that was once a railroad station, and today it serves as a museum dedicated to the area’s history. The Savage Days Festival is an annual event that includes parades, live music, and food vendors, drawing the local community together.