Cities and Towns in Union County, Iowa

Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Union County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Union County was formed from Clarke County. The city of Creston is the county seat. With FIPS code of 175, Union County has a population of 12,018 and area of 424 square miles (1,098 km²).

List of all cities in Union County, IA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Afton, IA	50830	641
Arispe, IA	50831	641
Barney, IA	50149	641
Creston, IA	50801	641
Cromwell, IA	50842	641
Lorimor, IA	50149	641
Shannon City, IA	50861	641
Talmage, IA	50254	641
Thayer, IA	50254	641

Major Cities and Towns in Union County, Iowa

Creston

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 5.35 square miles
• Population: Approximately 7,800 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50801
• Latitude: 41.0583° N
• Longitude: 94.3619° W

City Location and History

Creston is the county seat of Union County, located in southwestern Iowa. The city was established in 1868 as a railroad town, strategically positioned along the main line of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad. It was named Creston because it was the highest point (or “crest”) along the railroad between the Missouri and Mississippi rivers. Throughout its history, Creston has been a significant hub for railroad operations, which fueled its early growth and development. The city’s economy diversified over time, but the railroad remains an integral part of its identity, with Creston still serving as a key stop on the BNSF Railway. Today, Creston blends its historical significance with modern amenities, maintaining its role as a regional economic and cultural center.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Creston is served by the Creston Community School District, with Creston High School being the largest educational institution in the area. Southwestern Community College is also located here, offering higher education opportunities. The restored Creston Depot, a historic railroad station, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks and serves as both a museum and Amtrak station. McKinley Park, a large recreational area with a lake, walking trails, and sports facilities, is a focal point for outdoor activities. Creston’s historic uptown area also features numerous preserved buildings, including the Creston Carnegie Library.

Afton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.06 square miles
• Population: Approximately 850 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50830
• Latitude: 41.0278° N
• Longitude: 94.1964° W

City Location and History

Afton, located about 10 miles east of Creston, is one of the oldest towns in Union County, having been established in 1854. The town was named after the River Afton in Scotland, reflecting the early settlers’ European roots. Afton grew steadily as a small agricultural community, benefiting from its position along early transportation routes. Although the town’s growth slowed after the railroad bypassed it in favor of Creston, Afton has retained its role as a service center for the surrounding farming communities. Its historical charm is evident in many of the town’s 19th-century buildings, which remain intact and add to the quiet, rural character of the town.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Afton is part of the East Union Community School District, with East Union High School located in town, serving students from across the county. Afton City Park, centrally located in town, is a key landmark, hosting various community events, including the annual Afton Fourth of July celebration. Another significant site is the Union County Historical Village, which showcases historic buildings from the area, including a restored schoolhouse and a church. The nearby Three Mile Lake, located just outside of town, offers boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Lorimor

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.44 square miles
• Population: Approximately 350 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50149
• Latitude: 41.1178° N
• Longitude: 94.0491° W

City Location and History

Lorimor is a small town located in the northeastern part of Union County. It was founded in 1887, primarily as a result of the Chicago, St. Paul & Kansas City Railroad extending its line through the area. The town was named after a local landowner, Judge Brown Lorimor, who played a key role in its early development. As a railroad stop, Lorimor served as a local center for trade and agriculture, providing goods and services to surrounding farms. The town has remained small over the years, preserving its quiet, rural charm while adapting to the needs of modern-day residents. Its economy is still largely supported by agriculture.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lorimor is part of the East Union Community School District, with schools located in nearby Afton. A key landmark in Lorimor is the town’s historic grain elevator, a reminder of its agricultural roots and the role the railroad played in its growth. The nearby Green Valley State Park offers outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and camping, and serves as a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Lorimor’s small downtown area includes a few historic buildings, adding to the town’s rural charm and historical character.

Thayer

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.10 square miles
• Population: Approximately 50 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50254
• Latitude: 41.0661° N
• Longitude: 94.0847° W

City Location and History

Thayer is a tiny village in the northeastern part of Union County. Established in the late 19th century, Thayer was originally a stop along the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad, which was vital for its initial growth. However, as rail travel declined, so did the population of Thayer, and today it remains one of the smallest communities in Union County. Despite its small size, Thayer has a rich history tied to the railroad era and the surrounding agricultural landscape. The town remains a quiet residential area, with a few businesses serving local farmers.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Thayer is part of the East Union Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Afton. The town’s main landmark is the Thayer Community Hall, which serves as a gathering place for local events and community activities. The surrounding countryside is dotted with farms, providing a scenic backdrop for the village. Nearby, the Twelve Mile Lake Recreation Area offers outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it a popular spot for those seeking a quiet, natural setting.

Shannon City

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.14 square miles
• Population: Approximately 70 (as of 2023)
• Zip Code: 50861
• Latitude: 40.8897° N
• Longitude: 94.2489° W

City Location and History

Shannon City is located on the border of Union and Ringgold counties, in the southern part of Union County. It was founded in the late 19th century and named after Thomas Shannon, an early settler in the area. The town developed as a small agricultural community, with a few general stores and other businesses serving the surrounding farms. Over time, as farming technology improved and fewer people were needed to work the land, the population of Shannon City declined. Today, the town remains a small residential community, reflecting the rural nature of Union County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Shannon City is part of both the East Union Community School District and the Mount Ayr Community School District, depending on where students reside. Key landmarks in Shannon City include the Shannon City Community Hall, which serves as a venue for local gatherings and events. The town is surrounded by rolling farmland, providing a scenic and peaceful setting for residents. Although it is small, Shannon City’s location near larger towns like Afton and Creston allows residents easy access to schools, shops, and other amenities while maintaining its quiet, rural character.