Cities and Towns in Sherburne County, Minnesota
Founded in 1856, Sherburne County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Sherburne County was formed from Benton County. The city of Elk River is the county seat. With FIPS code of 141, Sherburne County has a population of 99,074 and area of 436.30 square miles (1,130 km²).
List of all cities in Sherburne County, MN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Becker, MN | 55308 | 763 |
| Big Lake, MN | 55309 | 763 |
| Burns Township, MN | 55330 | 763 |
| Clear Lake, MN | 55319 | 320 |
| Elk River, MN | 55330 | 763 |
| Nowthen, MN | 55330 | 763 |
| Otsego, MN | 55330 | 763 |
| Santiago, MN | 55377 | 763 |
| Zimmerman, MN | 55398 | 763 |
Major Cities and Towns in Sherburne County, Minnesota
Sherburne County, located in central Minnesota, offers a mix of suburban, rural, and agricultural communities. It is part of the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan area and has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with an increasing number of residents drawn to its rural charm, good schools, and access to urban amenities. Cities such as Elk River, Big Lake, Zimmerman, and Santiago provide a diverse range of living options, from small-town atmospheres to suburban developments. The county is known for its scenic parks, including Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, and its rich history, dating back to early European settlers. Below is an overview of the major cities and towns in Sherburne County, including their history, schools, and notable landmarks.
1. Elk River
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 21.5 square miles
- Population: 25,000 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 55330
- Latitude: 45.3116° N
- Longitude: 93.7400° W
Location and History:
Elk River is the largest city in Sherburne County and serves as the county seat. The city is located at the confluence of the Mississippi River and the Elk River, which was named for the abundance of elk in the area when European settlers first arrived. Elk River was officially established as a village in 1855 and rapidly developed thanks to its location along the Great Northern Railway, which brought both settlers and commerce to the area.
The city’s early economy was based on the timber industry, with lumber mills built along the rivers, as well as agriculture and trade. Over time, Elk River grew into a suburban community with a diverse economy, including retail, manufacturing, and services. The city continued to develop as a commuter town due to its proximity to the Twin Cities metropolitan area. Today, Elk River has a population of around 25,000 and serves as a regional hub for shopping, dining, and recreational activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Elk River is served by the Elk River Area School District, which includes Elk River High School, VandenBerge Middle School, and Morris Bye Elementary School. The district offers a wide range of academic and extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and STEM programs.
Key landmarks in Elk River include the Elk River City Park, which offers walking trails, picnic areas, and access to the river, making it a popular spot for outdoor recreation. The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, located just outside the city, provides opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Additionally, The Picket Fence Galleria in downtown Elk River features local art and crafts, and Elk River’s Historic District showcases the city’s early architecture. The city also hosts the Elk River Area Farmers Market, a local favorite for fresh produce and artisanal goods.
2. Big Lake
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 6.5 square miles
- Population: 11,500 (approx.)
- Zip Codes: 55309
- Latitude: 45.3140° N
- Longitude: 93.7470° W
Location and History:
Big Lake, located in the northeastern corner of Sherburne County, is named after Big Lake, the large body of water that lies at the heart of the city. The area was first settled in the mid-1800s by European immigrants, who were attracted to the area’s rich natural resources and fertile land. Early settlers were primarily farmers, but the development of the railroads in the late 1800s helped increase the city’s population and importance as a regional transportation hub.
The city’s economy has historically been based on agriculture, but over time, Big Lake has grown into a residential community, particularly as people have sought affordable housing in a more rural setting, yet still within commuting distance of the Twin Cities. The lake itself has become an important recreational area, attracting residents and visitors alike for fishing, boating, and outdoor activities. Today, Big Lake continues to grow and is known for its small-town charm, proximity to larger cities, and recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Big Lake is served by the Big Lake School District, which includes Big Lake High School, Schafer Elementary School, and Liberty Elementary School. The district emphasizes academic excellence and offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students, including sports and music programs.
Notable landmarks in Big Lake include Big Lake City Park, which features walking trails, a beach area, and picnic facilities, making it a favorite spot for outdoor activities. The lake itself is the centerpiece of the community, offering residents boating, fishing, and swimming opportunities. The Big Lake History Museum offers a glimpse into the city’s past, particularly its early settlement and agricultural history. Additionally, The Big Lake Community Center hosts local events, including seasonal festivals, classes, and other recreational activities.
3. Zimmerman
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.8 square miles
- Population: 5,500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 55398
- Latitude: 45.3730° N
- Longitude: 93.5960° W
Location and History:
Zimmerman is a small city located in the eastern part of Sherburne County, just to the west of Elk River. The city was originally settled in the 1850s and named after Jacob Zimmerman, a German immigrant who established a farm and store in the area. Zimmerman quickly grew as an agricultural community, thanks to its location along the Mississippi River and nearby rail lines.
Over the years, Zimmerman remained a quiet rural community, but the city began to experience more rapid growth in the 1990s, particularly due to its proximity to Elk River and its access to the Twin Cities. Today, Zimmerman is known for its small-town atmosphere, affordable housing, and a growing population that seeks to live outside the larger cities while still being within commuting distance.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Zimmerman is served by the Zimmerman School District, which includes Zimmerman High School, Zimmerman Middle School, and Twin Lakes Elementary School. The district offers a variety of academic programs as well as extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and arts.
Key landmarks in Zimmerman include The Zimmerman Community Center, which hosts local events, classes, and meetings, providing a central gathering place for the community. Lake Fremont, located just south of the city, offers recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing. The Zimmerman Veterans Memorial Park is another notable site, commemorating the service of local veterans. The Sherburne National Wildlife Refuge, located nearby, provides opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife photography.
4. Santiago
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.7 square miles
- Population: 400 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 55377
- Latitude: 45.4645° N
- Longitude: 93.7480° W
Location and History:
Santiago is a small town located in the southern part of Sherburne County, near the Santiago Township. It was established in the early 1870s and named after Santiago, a Spanish missionary. The area was initially settled by European immigrants, many of whom were farmers. Santiago remained a quiet rural community for much of its history, and it continues to be a small, tight-knit community with a focus on family life and agriculture.
Despite its small size, Santiago has retained its historic charm and rural character. The town’s location near the Santiago Prairie and surrounding wetlands provides scenic beauty, and the area’s natural resources have contributed to a small tourism industry. Today, Santiago is a peaceful town with close ties to agriculture, and it remains a popular choice for those looking to live in a rural setting while still being close to larger urban areas like St. Cloud.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Santiago is part of the St. Cloud Area School District, with local students attending schools in nearby St. Cloud or Clear Lake. The town has a small but active community, and families often participate in events and activities offered through the district.
The Santiago Community Center serves as a gathering spot for local residents, offering space for meetings and events. Santiago Lake, located just south of the town, provides opportunities for fishing and boating. The town also has a number of parks and nature areas that highlight the region’s rural beauty and are perfect for outdoor recreation.
