Cities and Towns in Taylor County, Iowa
Founded on Feb 24, 1847, Taylor County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Taylor County was formed from Page County. The city of Bedford is the county seat. With FIPS code of 173, Taylor County has a population of 5,868 and area of 534 square miles (1,383 km²).
List of all cities in Taylor County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Athlestan, IA | 50836 | 641 |
| Bedford, IA | 50833 | 712 |
| Blockton, IA | 50836 | 641 |
| Clearfield, IA | 50840 | 641 |
| Conway, IA | 50833 | 712 |
| Gravity, IA | 50848 | 712 |
| Kent, IA | 50851 | 641 |
| Lenox, IA | 50851 | 641 |
| Maloy, IA | 50836 | 641 |
| New Market, IA | 51646 | 712 |
| Platteville, IA | 50836 | 641 |
| Sharpsburg, IA | 50862 | 641 |
| Siam, IA | 50833 | 712 |
| Stringtown, IA | 50851 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Taylor County, Iowa
Bedford
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.63 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,400 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50833
- Latitude: 40.6692° N
- Longitude: 94.7202° W
City Location and History
Bedford is the county seat of Taylor County, located in the southwestern part of Iowa near the Missouri border. Founded in 1853, Bedford was chosen as the county seat due to its central location within the county. The town developed quickly, largely driven by agriculture and the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century. Bedford became a regional hub for trade and services for the surrounding farming communities. The town’s early prosperity is reflected in its well-preserved historic buildings, many of which line the downtown square. Over the years, Bedford has maintained its small-town charm while evolving into a modern community that serves as a center for local government, education, and healthcare in Taylor County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bedford is served by the Bedford Community School District, which includes Bedford High School, known for its strong academic and extracurricular programs. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Taylor County Courthouse, a historic structure built in 1892 that continues to function as the center of county government. Another notable landmark is the Bedford City Park, which features a swimming pool, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Bedford Museum is also a key attraction, preserving the history of the town and showcasing artifacts from its early days. Each year, Bedford hosts various community events, including the Taylor County Fair, which brings residents and visitors together.
Lenox
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.03 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50851
- Latitude: 40.8839° N
- Longitude: 94.5625° W
City Location and History
Lenox is a small town located in the northwestern part of Taylor County. It was founded in the early 1870s, during the expansion of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. The town grew rapidly due to its position along the railway line, which made it an important shipping point for agricultural goods such as corn and livestock. Lenox has long been an agricultural hub, and farming continues to be a significant part of the local economy. The town’s history is closely tied to the railroad, and many of the original buildings from that era still stand, contributing to Lenox’s historical charm. Over the years, Lenox has maintained its rural identity while adapting to modern needs.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lenox is served by the Lenox Community School District, with Lenox High School being the primary educational institution. A key landmark in Lenox is the Lenox City Park, which offers recreational amenities such as playgrounds, sports fields, and a community pool. The Lenox Depot Museum, housed in the town’s historic train station, showcases the town’s railroad history and agricultural heritage. Lenox is also known for its annual Rodeo Days celebration, which draws visitors from across the region for parades, rodeo events, and community gatherings. The town’s downtown area, with its historic buildings and small businesses, adds to Lenox’s quaint and welcoming atmosphere.
New Market
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: Approximately 400 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 51646
- Latitude: 40.7356° N
- Longitude: 94.8919° W
City Location and History
New Market is a small town in the western part of Taylor County. It was established in the 1880s when the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad extended its line through the area. Like many towns in the region, New Market developed as an agricultural community, with the railroad providing a vital link for shipping farm products to larger markets. The town has always been small, but its residents take pride in their close-knit community and rural traditions. Over the years, New Market has retained much of its original charm, with a peaceful setting surrounded by farmland.
Major Schools and Landmarks
New Market is part of the Bedford Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Bedford. The New Market Community Center serves as a focal point for local events and gatherings. A notable local landmark is the New Market Public Library, which offers resources and programs for residents of all ages. The surrounding countryside provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. New Market also celebrates its agricultural heritage with annual events like the New Market Labor Day Festival, which features parades, local vendors, and community activities.
Gravity
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 150 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50848
- Latitude: 40.7553° N
- Longitude: 94.7491° W
City Location and History
Gravity is a small, rural town located in the western part of Taylor County. Founded in the 1880s, the town grew as a result of the expansion of the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad. Gravity’s name is said to have been chosen randomly, but the town’s early growth was anything but accidental, with the railroad providing essential connections for the transport of agricultural products. Although the population has declined over the years, Gravity retains its close-knit, quiet community spirit. The town continues to serve the local farming population, with agriculture being the mainstay of the economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gravity is also part of the Bedford Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Bedford. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the Gravity Christian Church, a historic building that continues to serve as a center for worship and community gatherings. Gravity’s peaceful setting amidst the rolling farmland of southwestern Iowa offers a tranquil lifestyle for its residents. The town’s small downtown area includes a few historic buildings that reflect its railroad origins, while the surrounding landscape provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking.
Clearfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.45 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Code: 50840
- Latitude: 40.8008° N
- Longitude: 94.4794° W
City Location and History
Clearfield is located in the northeastern corner of Taylor County, near the borders of Ringgold and Union counties. The town was established in 1881 along the Chicago, Burlington, and Quincy Railroad, which spurred its early growth. Clearfield quickly became a center for local farming communities, offering a range of services and businesses to support the agricultural economy. Over the years, the town has experienced population fluctuations, but it remains a vibrant community with strong ties to its agricultural roots. Clearfield is known for its friendly, small-town atmosphere and its historical significance as a railroad town.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clearfield is part of the Lenox Community School District, with schools located in nearby Lenox. The Clearfield City Park is a key landmark, offering a playground, picnic areas, and sports fields, serving as a gathering place for community events. The town’s historic downtown features several 19th-century buildings, reflecting its railroad heritage. Each year, Clearfield hosts local celebrations such as Clearfield Days, which includes parades, games, and other festivities that celebrate the town’s history and community spirit. Clearfield’s rural setting also provides easy access to outdoor activities like fishing, hiking, and camping in nearby parks and natural areas.