Cities and Towns in Tompkins County, New York
Founded in 1817, Tompkins County is one of 62 counties in the state of New York. Historically, Tompkins County was formed from Cayuga County and Seneca County. The city of Ithaca is the county seat. With FIPS code of 109, Tompkins County has a population of 105,162 and area of 476 square miles (1,233 km²).
List of all cities in Tompkins County, NY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brooktondale, NY | 14817 | 607 |
| Dryden, NY | 13053 | 607 |
| Etna, NY | 13062 | 607 |
| Freeville, NY | 13068 | 607 |
| Groton, NY | 13073 | 607 |
| Groton City, NY | 13073 | 607 |
| Ithaca, NY | 14850 | 607 |
| 14851 | 607 | |
| 14852 | 607 | |
| 14853 | 607 | |
| 14882 | 607 | |
| Ithaca College, NY | 14850 | 607 |
| Jacksonville, NY | 14854 | 607 |
| Lansing, NY | 14882 | 607 |
| McLean, NY | 13102 | 607 |
| Newfield, NY | 14867 | 607 |
| Slaterville Springs, NY | 14881 | 607 |
| Trumansburg, NY | 14886 | 607 |
| West Groton, NY | 13073 | 607 |
Major Cities and Towns in Tompkins County, New York
Ithaca
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 6.9 square miles
- Population: 30,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 14850, 14851
- Latitude: 42.4411° N
- Longitude: 76.5019° W
Location and History
Ithaca, located in the heart of Tompkins County in the Finger Lakes region of New York, is best known as the home of Cornell University and Ithaca College. Situated at the southern tip of Cayuga Lake, the city has long been a hub for higher education, culture, and natural beauty. The area was originally inhabited by the Iroquois Confederacy, with the land ceded to the U.S. government in the early 19th century. Ithaca’s history as a settlement dates back to the late 18th century, and it was officially incorporated as a village in 1821. The development of the Erie Canal in the 19th century brought economic growth to the area, particularly in industries like milling, shipping, and manufacturing. The city’s landscape, characterized by gorges, waterfalls, and forests, became a draw for tourism and outdoor recreation, further boosting its economy. Ithaca has earned a reputation for being a progressive, intellectual, and environmentally conscious city, with a strong focus on sustainability and community-driven initiatives. The presence of world-class universities and research institutions continues to shape Ithaca’s cultural, educational, and economic landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ithaca is home to Cornell University, one of the Ivy League’s premier institutions, and Ithaca College, which offers strong programs in liberal arts, music, and theater. The Ithaca City School District serves the area, with Ithaca High School and Boynton Middle School among the district’s educational facilities. Ithaca’s major landmarks include Cascadilla Gorge, Buttermilk Falls State Park, and Taughannock Falls State Park, which features one of the tallest waterfalls in the eastern United States. The Ithaca Commons, a pedestrian-friendly downtown area, is home to numerous shops, restaurants, and cultural institutions. The Sciencenter, a family-friendly science museum, offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs. The Cornell Botanic Gardens and the Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art offer visitors access to both natural and artistic beauty. The Finger Lakes Trail, which passes through Ithaca, provides ample opportunities for hiking and outdoor exploration. Additionally, the city is known for its vibrant arts scene, with venues like the State Theatre of Ithaca hosting music, theater, and dance performances.
Dryden
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 93.1 square miles
- Population: 14,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 13053, 13072
- Latitude: 42.5260° N
- Longitude: 76.3379° W
Location and History
Dryden is a rural town located in the southern part of Tompkins County, bordered by Cayuga Lake to the west and neighboring Schuyler County to the south. The town was established in 1797, named after Dryden, England, and has been primarily agricultural throughout its history. Early settlers farmed the fertile lands along Cayuga Lake and the surrounding areas. The town grew gradually, with the construction of roads and railroads connecting it to nearby cities like Ithaca and Cortland. Although it remained small, Dryden’s location in the Finger Lakes region made it a popular area for agriculture, particularly dairy farming and the cultivation of crops like apples and corn. The town retains a rural character with a focus on family farms, small businesses, and a growing emphasis on sustainable farming practices. In recent years, Dryden has experienced some suburban growth due to its proximity to Ithaca, but it remains a quiet, tight-knit community with a strong sense of local heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Dryden Central School District serves the town, with Dryden High School, Dryden Middle School, and several elementary schools providing education to local children. Cornell University and Ithaca College are located nearby, offering educational and cultural resources to residents. Notable landmarks in Dryden include Virgil Mountain, which offers scenic views and hiking opportunities, and Dryden Lake, a local recreation area with trails and wildlife. The town is also home to The Cascadilla Gorge Trail, which offers beautiful hiking routes with views of waterfalls and wooded landscapes. Dryden’s historic town center features several 19th-century buildings, many of which are now used as businesses, offering a quaint, small-town atmosphere. Dryden’s location within the Finger Lakes region provides ample access to vineyards, wineries, and outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and boating.
Lansing
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 30.1 square miles
- Population: 12,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 14882
- Latitude: 42.5303° N
- Longitude: 76.6164° W
Location and History
Lansing is a town located in the northeast corner of Tompkins County, situated along the eastern shore of Cayuga Lake. First settled in the late 18th century, the town was officially established in 1826 and was named after John Lansing Jr., a prominent New York politician. Lansing’s early economy was driven by agriculture, including dairy farming and apple orchards. The town’s location along Cayuga Lake made it a key area for shipping and transportation, particularly in the 19th century, when the Cayuga and Susquehanna Railroad ran through Lansing. By the late 1800s, Lansing developed a small industrial base, with several mills and factories in operation. Today, Lansing is largely residential and rural, with an increasing number of new developments and suburban homes due to its proximity to Ithaca and Cornell University. The town also enjoys a rich history of agricultural production, with a continued emphasis on local farming and orchards, particularly apple and grape production for the region’s wineries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The Lansing Central School District serves the community, with Lansing High School and Lansing Middle School offering education. The town’s proximity to Cornell University and Ithaca College provides residents access to cultural and educational activities. Notable landmarks in Lansing include the Taughannock Falls State Park, known for its towering waterfall, and Lansing’s historic downtown, which includes several 19th-century buildings. The Cayuga Lake Scenic Byway, which runs through the town, offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding areas, with several parks and wineries located along the route. Lansing Harbor offers recreational opportunities on the lake, including boating, fishing, and picnicking. The Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport, located just outside Lansing, provides convenient access to air travel for residents and visitors. The town is also known for its agricultural landscape, with several local farms offering produce, dairy, and artisanal products.
Groton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: 2,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 13073
- Latitude: 42.5900° N
- Longitude: 76.4320° W
Location and History
Groton is a small village located in the northeastern part of Tompkins County, nestled between Cayuga Lake and Seneca Lake. Originally settled in the late 18th century, the village of Groton was incorporated in 1841. The town’s early economy was centered around agriculture, with settlers farming the fertile lands along the Owasco Outlet and Fall Creek. The construction of the Cayuga and Susquehanna Railroad in the mid-1800s helped Groton grow, connecting it to larger markets and trade routes. The town’s location near the Finger Lakes made it a favorable spot for farming, particularly apples, dairy, and grains. Over the years, Groton has retained a small-town feel, with much of its economy focused on agriculture and local businesses. Despite its small size, Groton has a strong sense of community and is known for its historic architecture, charming downtown area, and natural surroundings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Groton is served by the Groton Central School District, which includes Groton High School and Groton Junior High School. The town is home to The Groton Museum, which highlights local history, particularly the town’s agricultural past and early industry. Notable landmarks include the Groton Historic District, which features several well-preserved 19th-century buildings. Fall Creek and the nearby nature preserves provide outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, bird watching, and fishing. The village also hosts the annual Groton Apple Festival, celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage with local produce, crafts, and entertainment. Groton’s proximity to the Finger Lakes Trail and several state parks provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration. The village also boasts several local businesses, eateries, and artisan shops, contributing to the town’s sense of community.
