Cities and Towns in Seneca County, New York

Founded in 1804, Seneca County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Seneca County was formed from Cayuga County. The city of Waterloo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 99, Seneca County has a population of 33,688 and area of 325 square miles (842 km²).

List of all cities in Seneca County, NY alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Canoga, NY 13148 315
Fayette, NY 13065 315
Hayt Corners, NY 14521 607
Interlaken, NY 14847 607
Junius, NY 13165 315
Lodi, NY 14860 607
Mac Dougall, NY 14541 315
Ovid, NY 14521 607
Romulus, NY 14541 315
Seneca Falls, NY 13148 315
Tyre, NY 13148 315
Waterloo, NY 13165 315
Willard, NY 14588 607

Major Cities and Towns in Seneca County, New York

Geneva

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.8 square miles
  • Population: 13,500 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 14456, 14459
  • Latitude: 42.8737° N
  • Longitude: 76.9861° W

Location and History

Geneva is located on the northern shore of Seneca Lake in the Finger Lakes region of New York, and it is one of the largest cities in Seneca County. Settled in the early 19th century, Geneva’s strategic location along the lake and the Seneca River made it an important commercial center in the region. Originally home to the Seneca Native Americans, the area was named after Geneva, Switzerland. Geneva’s early economy was based on agriculture, especially fruit growing, due to the fertile lands of the Finger Lakes region. It became a center for trade, particularly with the development of the Erie Canal, which connected it to New York City and the western part of the state. Over the years, Geneva grew into a key manufacturing and educational hub, particularly with the establishment of Hobart College in 1822 and William Smith College in 1908. The city retains much of its historical charm, with a well-preserved downtown area featuring 19th-century architecture. Geneva also boasts a vibrant arts scene, active local government, and a growing tourism industry, driven by its proximity to Seneca Lake and wineries that dot the landscape.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Geneva is served by the Geneva City School District, which includes Geneva High School and several middle and elementary schools. Higher education institutions include Hobart and William Smith Colleges, a liberal arts college that has long been a cultural and intellectual centerpiece in the region. Notable landmarks in Geneva include Seneca Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and picturesque views, making it a prime destination for outdoor activities. The Geneva Historical Society preserves and shares the city’s rich history, including exhibits on the Erie Canal and the region’s role in the Underground Railroad. The Smith Center for the Arts is a local venue for theater performances, concerts, and film screenings. Seneca Lake State Park provides a green space with trails and a beach, popular for picnics and relaxation. The Lakefront Park offers scenic views of the lake, and the Geneva Grape Festival, celebrating the region’s grape-growing industry, attracts visitors annually. Additionally, The L.L. Bean Store at Seneca Lake Mall offers shopping and outdoor gear for nature lovers.


Waterloo

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.5 square miles
  • Population: 5,500 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 13165
  • Latitude: 42.9062° N
  • Longitude: 76.8641° W

Location and History

Waterloo is located in the northern part of Seneca County, situated along the Seneca River. Founded in 1798, the village of Waterloo is steeped in history and is known for being the birthplace of Memorial Day. The holiday originated in 1866 when Ann Jarvis, a local resident, organized the first official observance of a day to honor soldiers who died in the Civil War. Waterloo’s location along the Seneca River made it a key transportation route for goods, contributing to its growth as a center for agriculture and trade during the 19th century. The village continued to prosper with the development of the Erie Canal, facilitating the transport of goods, particularly agricultural products. Waterloo’s downtown area remains vibrant, with a mix of historic buildings and modern amenities. The town is also home to several parks and recreational areas, offering a balance between historical charm and natural beauty. As of today, Waterloo continues to be a key part of the Finger Lakes region’s agricultural industry, with a strong focus on tourism, community events, and local commerce.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Waterloo is served by the Waterloo Central School District, which includes Waterloo High School and other schools within the district. The town is also close to Cayuga Community College for higher education. Waterloo’s historical landmarks include the Waterloo Memorial Day Museum, which honors the town’s connection to the origins of Memorial Day. The Waterloo Main Street Historic District is home to several 19th-century buildings that showcase the village’s architectural evolution. Seneca Lake State Park offers trails, picnic areas, and beach access, popular with locals and visitors alike. The Waterloo Recreation Center provides sports facilities, including a pool and fitness center. The Seneca County Fairgrounds, located just outside the village, hosts the annual Seneca County Fair, celebrating local agriculture, crafts, and entertainment. The Waterloo Village Park is a quiet spot for relaxation and is often used for outdoor events. Waterloo also celebrates Memorial Day with a parade and events that attract visitors from across the country. The town’s rich history and involvement in the creation of Memorial Day make it a notable location for both tourism and local heritage.


Seneca Falls

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 1.9 square miles
  • Population: 6,500 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 13148
  • Latitude: 42.9120° N
  • Longitude: 76.7980° W

Location and History

Seneca Falls is a historic town located in the Finger Lakes region, along the banks of the Seneca River, in Seneca County. The town is internationally known for its role in the women’s suffrage movement and is often referred to as the birthplace of the movement. In 1848, the Seneca Falls Convention, the first women’s rights convention, was held here, led by notable figures like Elizabeth Cady Stanton and Lucretia Mott. The convention, which took place at the Wesleyan Chapel, called for women’s rights to vote, own property, and receive an education. The event was pivotal in the history of women’s rights in America and sparked the nationwide movement that eventually led to the passage of the 19th Amendment in 1920. Seneca Falls was also an important center for manufacturing and commerce in the 19th and early 20th centuries, particularly due to its location on the Erie Canal. Today, Seneca Falls is a vibrant town that celebrates its history while continuing to be a key part of the Finger Lakes region’s agricultural and tourism industry.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Seneca Falls is served by the Seneca Falls Central School District, which includes Mynderse Academy and several elementary and middle schools. The town is also home to the Seneca Falls Education Center, offering adult education and workforce development programs. Major landmarks include the Women’s Rights National Historical Park, which includes the Wesleyan Chapel and the Elizabeth Cady Stanton House, both of which were integral to the early women’s suffrage movement. The National Women’s Hall of Fame, located in Seneca Falls, honors notable women who have contributed to various fields, including politics, science, and the arts. The Seneca Falls Historical Society Museum explores the town’s rich industrial past and the significant role it played in the Erie Canal system. Van Cleef Lake, located in the heart of the town, offers a serene setting for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The town also hosts the annual Women’s Rights Heritage Trail event, which commemorates the legacy of the women’s suffrage movement. Visitors can explore Seneca Falls’ charming downtown area, which features shops, restaurants, and historical sites, making it a popular destination for those interested in history and social justice.


Fayette

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 24.3 square miles
  • Population: 2,600 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 13165
  • Latitude: 42.8582° N
  • Longitude: 76.8880° W

Location and History

Fayette is a town located in the northern part of Seneca County, near the shores of Seneca Lake. The town was established in 1794 and was primarily an agricultural community during its early years, with farming being the backbone of its economy. Fayette’s location along the Seneca Lake Wine Trail has made it an attractive destination for wine enthusiasts, as the town is surrounded by vineyards and wineries. Fayette’s history is tied to its role in the agricultural development of the Finger Lakes region. While agriculture remains important, the town has also seen growth in small businesses, tourism, and outdoor recreation. Fayette is home to many historic farms, some of which date back to the early 1800s. With its proximity to Seneca Falls and Geneva, Fayette remains an integral part of the region’s history and economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fayette is served by the Romulus Central School District, which includes Romulus High School and several elementary and middle schools. The town is also located near Cayuga Community College and Finger Lakes Community College. Prominent landmarks in Fayette include Seneca Lake, offering boating and fishing opportunities, and Sampson State Park, which offers hiking, swimming, and camping in a picturesque setting. Fayette also features several historic farmsteads and agricultural sites, reflecting its rural past. The Seneca Lake Wine Trail runs through Fayette, offering visitors access to several local wineries. Sampson State Park was once a military base and is now a New York State Park, offering a glimpse into the area’s history. Fayette is a peaceful, rural town that offers a mix of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and agricultural heritage. It is also known for its community events, such as the Fayette Farmers Market, where local producers sell fresh produce and handmade goods.