Cities and Towns in Shiawassee County, Michigan
Founded in 1822, Shiawassee County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Shiawassee County was formed from parts of Oakland County and St. Clair County. The city of Corunna is the county seat. With FIPS code of 155, Shiawassee County has a population of 67,877 and area of 541 square miles (1,401 km²).
List of all cities in Shiawassee County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bancroft, MI | 48414 | 989 |
| Byron, MI | 48418 | 810 |
| Corunna, MI | 48817 | 989 |
| Durand, MI | 48429 | 989 |
| Henderson, MI | 48841 | 989 |
| Laingsburg, MI | 48848 | 517 |
| Morrice, MI | 48857 | 517 |
| New Lothrop, MI | 48460 | 810 |
| Owosso, MI | 48841 | 989 |
| 48867 | 989 | |
| Perry, MI | 48872 | 517 |
| Shaftsburg, MI | 48882 | 517 |
| Vernon, MI | 48476 | 989 |
| Vernon City, MI | 48429 | 989 |
Major Cities and Towns in Shiawassee County, Michigan
Owosso
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 5.25 square miles
- Population: 14,970 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48867
- Latitude: 42.9978° N
- Longitude: 84.1763° W
City Location and History
Owosso is the largest city in Shiawassee County, located on the Shiawassee River, approximately 25 miles west of Flint and 30 miles northeast of Lansing. The city was named after Chief Wasso, a Native American leader, and was officially incorporated as a city in 1859. Owosso experienced significant growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, driven by its position as a rail hub. The city’s economy once thrived on manufacturing, including railcars and agricultural equipment, but it has since diversified into service industries and healthcare. The Shiawassee River runs through the heart of the city, contributing to both its natural beauty and its history as a transportation and industrial center.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Owosso is home to several major schools, including Owosso High School and Lincoln Alternative High School. Baker College, a private institution, also has a campus in the city. Major landmarks include Curwood Castle, a historical museum built by author James Oliver Curwood in the early 1920s, and the Steam Railroading Institute, home of the famous Pere Marquette 1225 locomotive. The Shiawassee Arts Center, located along the river, is another cultural hub in the city. The Lebowsky Center for Performing Arts hosts various shows and community events, serving as a key entertainment venue.
Durand
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.09 square miles
- Population: 3,446 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48429
- Latitude: 42.9125° N
- Longitude: 83.9844° W
City Location and History
Durand is a small city located in the southeastern part of Shiawassee County, about 20 miles southwest of Flint. It was established in the late 19th century, largely due to its strategic location on the rail lines of the Grand Trunk Western Railroad. The city quickly became a significant rail hub in the Midwest, earning it the nickname “Railroad City.” This industrial heritage shaped Durand’s development, with the Durand Union Station being a prominent landmark that once served as a major railway depot in the early 20th century. Today, while railroads continue to be important, the city has developed a more diverse local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Durand Area Schools serve the city, with Durand High School being the primary institution. Durand Union Station, an architectural gem built in 1903, is the city’s most iconic landmark, now functioning as a museum showcasing railroad history. The station is a centerpiece of the community, reflecting Durand’s rail heritage. The nearby Optimist Park provides recreational space, while annual events like the Durand Railroad Days Festival celebrate the city’s historic roots. The surrounding countryside is also home to small farms and natural preserves, adding to the town’s quaint and scenic charm.
Corunna
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.21 square miles
- Population: 3,129 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48817
- Latitude: 42.9820° N
- Longitude: 84.1175° W
City Location and History
Corunna is the county seat of Shiawassee County, situated just east of Owosso, along the Shiawassee River. The city was platted in 1837 and became the county seat in 1840. Its historical significance stems from its role as a government and judicial center. The city developed as a center for agriculture, industry, and transportation, with the Shiawassee River providing water power for mills during its early years. Corunna’s historic downtown still retains some of its 19th-century charm, and the Shiawassee County Courthouse, built in 1904, is a significant architectural and cultural landmark.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Corunna Public Schools is the primary educational institution in the area, with Corunna High School serving the city. Major landmarks include the historic Shiawassee County Courthouse, a neoclassical building that serves as the heart of the city’s governmental operations. McCurdy Park, located near downtown, offers recreational opportunities with walking trails, a historical village, and picnic areas. The Corunna Historical Village within the park preserves several 19th-century structures, providing a glimpse into the city’s early days. The park also hosts seasonal festivals and community events, making it a focal point for residents.
Perry
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.07 square miles
- Population: 2,188 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48872
- Latitude: 42.8275° N
- Longitude: 84.2233° W
City Location and History
Perry is located in the southern part of Shiawassee County, along I-69, making it easily accessible to both Lansing and Flint. Founded in the mid-19th century, Perry was initially a small farming community. It was named after Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry, a hero of the War of 1812. Perry grew modestly through the 20th century, transitioning from a primarily agricultural base to a more suburban community, with many residents commuting to larger nearby cities. Its location along the interstate has contributed to gradual residential and commercial development over the years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Perry Public Schools, including Perry High School, serve the community. Perry City Park is one of the town’s most significant landmarks, offering sports facilities, walking trails, and hosting community events throughout the year. The Perry Historical Society maintains a museum showcasing artifacts from the city’s past. Nearby, the Red Cedar River provides scenic beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities, with residents frequently enjoying fishing, canoeing, and hiking along its banks. The city is also known for its small-town charm and welcoming community atmosphere.
Laingsburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.54 square miles
- Population: 1,283 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 48848
- Latitude: 42.8914° N
- Longitude: 84.3511° W
City Location and History
Laingsburg is a small city located in the western part of Shiawassee County, near the border with Clinton County and just 20 miles northeast of Lansing. It was founded in 1836 by Peter Laing, who established the town on land granted to him. The city developed as an agricultural and milling hub, benefiting from its location near several lakes, including Lake Ovid. Over time, Laingsburg has grown into a small but vibrant community, known for its scenic beauty and proximity to Sleepy Hollow State Park, a major outdoor recreation destination.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Laingsburg Community Schools serve the area, with Laingsburg High School being the city’s primary educational institution. Sleepy Hollow State Park, located just outside the city, is a major landmark, offering hiking, fishing, and camping opportunities. Laingsburg’s downtown area retains a charming, small-town feel with local shops and restaurants. The area around Lake Ovid is popular for boating and picnicking, while the annual Laingsburg Pumpkin Festival is a community highlight, attracting visitors from across the region. The city’s rural surroundings and natural beauty contribute to its appeal as a peaceful place to live.
