Cities and Towns in Van Buren County, Michigan
Founded in 1829, Van Buren County is one of 83 counties in the state of Michigan. Historically, Van Buren County was formed from unorganized territory. The city of Paw Paw is the county seat. With FIPS code of 159, Van Buren County has a population of 75,658 and area of 1,090 square miles (2,823 km²).
List of all cities in Van Buren County, MI alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bangor, MI | 49013 | 269 |
| Bloomingdale, MI | 49026 | 269 |
| Breedsville, MI | 49027 | 269 |
| Covert, MI | 49043 | 269 |
| Decatur, MI | 49045 | 269 |
| Gobles, MI | 49055 | 269 |
| Grand Jct, MI | 49056 | 269 |
| Grand Junction, MI | 49056 | 269 |
| Hartford, MI | 49057 | 269 |
| Kendall, MI | 49062 | 269 |
| Lacota, MI | 49063 | 269 |
| Lawrence, MI | 49064 | 269 |
| Lawton, MI | 49065 | 269 |
| Mattawan, MI | 49071 | 269 |
| Paw Paw, MI | 49079 | 269 |
| South Haven, MI | 49090 | 269 |
Major Cities and Towns in Van Buren County, Michigan
1. South Haven
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 3.51 square miles
- Population: 4,403 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49090
- Latitude: 42.4039° N
- Longitude: 86.2736° W
Location and History
South Haven, located on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a popular resort town in the northwestern part of Van Buren County. Founded in 1833, the town was originally a lumber and shipping hub due to its access to Lake Michigan and the Black River. Over time, South Haven transformed into a popular vacation destination for residents of Chicago and Detroit, known for its beaches, marinas, and water activities. The town’s location at the mouth of the Black River made it a vital port for the region, and its historical charm continues to attract visitors year-round.
Major Schools and Landmarks
South Haven Public Schools serve the area, including South Haven High School. Key landmarks include the South Haven Lighthouse, a historic beacon at the mouth of the Black River, and the Michigan Maritime Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region’s nautical history. Visitors and residents alike enjoy the scenic beauty of the Kal-Haven Trail, a popular biking and hiking trail that connects South Haven to Kalamazoo. The city hosts annual events such as the National Blueberry Festival, celebrating the region’s agricultural heritage. With its picturesque beaches, vibrant downtown, and historical sites, South Haven is a premier destination on Lake Michigan’s coastline.
2. Paw Paw
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 2.83 square miles
- Population: 3,309 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49079
- Latitude: 42.2164° N
- Longitude: 85.8925° W
Location and History
Paw Paw, the county seat of Van Buren County, is located along the Paw Paw River and is named after the pawpaw fruit, which grows in the area. Founded in the early 1800s, the village developed as an agricultural and manufacturing hub, known for its vineyards and wineries. Paw Paw’s history is closely tied to its viticulture, with wineries playing a significant role in the town’s economy since the 19th century. The village has retained its small-town charm while serving as the administrative and commercial center of the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Paw Paw Public Schools serve local students, with Paw Paw High School being the main secondary school. Major landmarks include the St. Julian Winery, Michigan’s oldest and largest winery, and the Paw Paw Village Historic District, which preserves many of the town’s 19th-century buildings. Maple Island is a popular recreation area along the Paw Paw River, offering fishing, kayaking, and picnicking. The town hosts the annual Paw Paw Wine and Harvest Festival, celebrating the area’s agricultural heritage with wine tastings, parades, and family-friendly activities. Paw Paw’s combination of history, agriculture, and natural beauty makes it a welcoming community.
3. Bangor
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.9 square miles
- Population: 1,743 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49013
- Latitude: 42.3125° N
- Longitude: 86.1147° W
Location and History
Bangor is located in the northern part of Van Buren County and was established in 1862. The village originally grew as a result of the railroad that passed through the area, providing a transportation hub for lumber and agriculture. Throughout its history, Bangor has been a small agricultural town, surrounded by farmland and orchards. The nearby Bangor River and access to transportation made the town a key player in the county’s rural economy, and it continues to maintain its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bangor Public Schools, including Bangor High School, serve the community. The town’s most notable landmark is the Bangor Elevator, a historical grain elevator that serves as a reminder of the town’s agricultural heritage. The Bangor Historical Museum houses artifacts and exhibits about the town’s history, including its connection to the railroad. Additionally, the surrounding countryside offers access to outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing. The annual Apple Festival celebrates Bangor’s agricultural roots, attracting visitors from around the region. With its quiet rural atmosphere, Bangor provides a peaceful lifestyle for residents who appreciate small-town living.
4. Lawrence
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.03 square miles
- Population: 995 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49064
- Latitude: 42.2194° N
- Longitude: 86.0506° W
Location and History
Lawrence, a small village in the eastern part of Van Buren County, was first settled in 1847 and quickly became a farming community due to its fertile lands and proximity to the Paw Paw River. The village played a significant role in the development of agriculture in the region, particularly in fruit farming and dairy production. Lawrence has maintained its rural charm and close-knit community atmosphere, with much of the town’s history reflected in its architecture and agricultural traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lawrence Public Schools serve the village, including Lawrence High School. The Lawrence Downtown Historic District features several well-preserved 19th-century buildings, offering a glimpse into the village’s past. The Van Buren County Youth Fairgrounds are located in Lawrence and host the annual county fair, which showcases local agriculture, livestock, and 4-H events. This event is a highlight of the town’s calendar, drawing visitors from across the county. With its small population and agricultural focus, Lawrence remains a quiet yet active village centered around its farming heritage.
5. Decatur
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.55 square miles
- Population: 1,745 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49045
- Latitude: 42.1089° N
- Longitude: 85.9725° W
Location and History
Decatur is located in the southern part of Van Buren County and was founded in 1847. The village developed as a stop on the railroad, becoming an important agricultural and commercial center for the surrounding farming community. Decatur’s history is deeply connected to agriculture, with its economy historically focused on crop production and livestock farming. The village has managed to preserve its small-town character while serving as a local hub for commerce and services in the southern part of the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Decatur Public Schools, including Decatur High School, serve the village and surrounding area. Notable landmarks include the Decatur Historical Society, which preserves local history, and the Finch Lake Preserve, offering outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching. Decatur is also known for its proximity to the Dowagiac River, where residents enjoy fishing and canoeing. The village hosts the annual Decatur Founders’ Day celebration, which commemorates the village’s history with a parade, local food vendors, and community events. Decatur’s rich agricultural heritage and peaceful atmosphere make it a quintessential small Michigan village.
6. Hartford
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.45 square miles
- Population: 2,688 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 49057
- Latitude: 42.2078° N
- Longitude: 86.1661° W
Location and History
Hartford, located in the southwestern part of Van Buren County, was settled in 1846 and grew as a center for agriculture and transportation, particularly due to the influence of the railroad in the 19th century. The town became a hub for the shipment of agricultural products, including fruits and vegetables, grown in the region. Like many towns in Van Buren County, Hartford has retained its agricultural focus while evolving into a small but vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hartford Public Schools serve the area, including Hartford High School. Notable landmarks in Hartford include Ely Park, which serves as a central gathering space for community events, and the Hartford Speedway, a local dirt track that attracts racing enthusiasts from across the region. The Van Buren County Historical Museum, located nearby, showcases artifacts from Hartford’s past and the surrounding area. Hartford hosts an annual Strawberry Festival, celebrating the local strawberry harvest with parades, food vendors, and live entertainment. Hartford’s small-town charm, combined with its agricultural roots and community events, make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
