Cities and Towns in Waseca County, Minnesota
Founded in 1857, Waseca County is one of 87 counties in the state of Minnesota. Historically, Waseca County was formed from Steele County. The city of Waseca is the county seat. With FIPS code of 161, Waseca County has a population of 19,000 and area of 423.25 square miles (1,096 km²).
List of all cities in Waseca County, MN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Janesville, MN | 56048 | 507 |
Meriden, MN | 56093 | 507 |
New Richland, MN | 56072 | 507 |
Otisco, MN | 56093 | 507 |
Waldorf, MN | 56091 | 507 |
Waseca, MN | 56093 | 507 |
Major Cities and Towns in Waseca County, Minnesota
Waseca County is located in the southern part of Minnesota, known for its agricultural heritage, scenic landscapes, and charming small-town communities. The county seat, Waseca, is the largest city in the county and serves as the center of local government, commerce, and education. The county also includes a variety of smaller towns, each offering its own unique character and history. Below are details about the major cities and towns in Waseca County.
1. Waseca
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 6.51 square miles
- Population: 9,500 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56093
- Latitude: 44.0786° N
- Longitude: 93.5013° W
Location and History:
Waseca, the county seat of Waseca County, is located in the southern part of Minnesota, approximately 70 miles southwest of Minneapolis. The city was originally settled in 1857 and named after Lake Waseca, a nearby body of water. Waseca’s early economy was based on agriculture, with farmers growing wheat, corn, and other crops. The arrival of the railroad in the 1860s played a key role in the city’s growth, helping to establish it as a transportation and trade hub.
In the 20th century, Waseca saw steady growth as it became a center for education, business, and industry. It became known as a community with a high quality of life, offering a blend of rural charm and urban convenience. Over the years, Waseca has maintained its reputation as a small-town, family-friendly place, while still being close enough to the Twin Cities for commuters. Its agricultural roots remain strong, but the city has expanded with modern amenities and services, making it a desirable location for those looking to settle in a tranquil yet vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Waseca is served by the Waseca Public Schools District, which includes Waseca High School and Waseca Junior High School, offering strong academic programs and extracurricular activities. The city is home to Waseca Central Park, a beautiful green space with walking trails, sports facilities, and picnic areas. The Waseca County Courthouse, a historical building in the heart of downtown, is a significant landmark that reflects the city’s heritage. Other points of interest include the Waseca Art Center, which hosts exhibits and cultural events, and The National Loon Center, a local attraction that celebrates the state bird of Minnesota. Clear Lake, located just outside the city, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and recreational activities.
2. Janesville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.29 square miles
- Population: 2,000 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56048
- Latitude: 44.0786° N
- Longitude: 93.4719° W
Location and History:
Janesville is located in the southern part of Waseca County, just a short drive from Waseca and the nearby Interstate 90. The city was established in 1856 and named after Janesville, Wisconsin, after the town’s founder, Janes Talbot, who originated from Wisconsin. Janesville was originally a farming settlement, and like many small towns in the region, agriculture has remained a cornerstone of the community’s identity. The arrival of the railroad in the 1870s helped facilitate trade and made Janesville a small hub for the local agricultural economy.
Throughout the 20th century, Janesville saw gradual growth, and while it retains its rural atmosphere, it has grown into a suburban community with a focus on family life. Today, Janesville is a close-knit, community-oriented town, offering a peaceful place to live with a strong sense of local pride. The town is also known for its proximity to Lake Elysian, a popular spot for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing, adding to the recreational appeal of the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Janesville is served by the Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton School District, which includes Janesville High School. The city’s main landmark is Lake Elysian, a scenic body of water that draws both residents and visitors for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The Janesville Community Center offers a variety of recreational activities for local families, including fitness programs and youth sports. The town also hosts the Janesville Days Festival, an annual event that includes a parade, carnival, and live entertainment, making it a major event for residents. The Janesville Public Library is an essential part of the community, providing a gathering space for education and social events.
3. New Richland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.19 square miles
- Population: 1,200 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56072
- Latitude: 44.1633° N
- Longitude: 93.4622° W
Location and History:
New Richland, located in the central part of Waseca County, was founded in the 1870s and is named after Richland County, Wisconsin, where early settlers originated. The town’s early history is closely tied to farming, and its economy was built around agriculture and the surrounding fertile land. The Chicago and North Western Railway contributed to the development of the town by providing easy access to markets for agricultural products.
In the early 20th century, New Richland was known for its grain mills and was a center for local commerce. Over the years, the town has remained a small rural community with a strong emphasis on family life and community involvement. New Richland is known for its beautiful landscapes and quiet, peaceful atmosphere, offering a retreat from the busier urban areas in the surrounding region.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
New Richland is served by the New Richland-Hartland-Ellendale-Geneva School District, which includes New Richland-Hartland High School. The town is home to several parks, including Lake Tetonka, which offers a peaceful setting for boating and fishing. The New Richland Community Center is a hub for local events, providing meeting spaces for various community activities. The New Richland Public Library is an important resource for local residents, offering books, programs, and access to technology. The town’s annual Tractor Show is a major event, drawing in visitors with a love for vintage farming equipment and local traditions.
4. Otisco
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.16 square miles
- Population: 150 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56062
- Latitude: 44.0169° N
- Longitude: 93.4421° W
Location and History:
Otisco is a small unincorporated town located in the eastern part of Waseca County. It was founded in the mid-1800s, and the name “Otisco” is thought to come from a Native American word, potentially meaning “place of the large trees.” The town was once a rural settlement with a thriving agricultural economy. In the 20th century, the population declined as people moved to larger towns and cities for work, but Otisco remains a quiet, peaceful community with a strong agricultural base.
Otisco is largely residential, with a few small businesses and farms in the area. The community is known for its agricultural lifestyle, and while it is small in terms of population, it maintains a sense of local pride and tradition. The town is situated in a beautiful rural setting, surrounded by farmland and nature, making it an attractive place for those who enjoy rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Otisco is part of the Janesville-Waldorf-Pemberton School District, and students typically attend schools in Janesville. The town is home to several historical landmarks, including old farmhouses and barns that date back to the early settlement period. The Otisco Community Center serves as a gathering space for the small town’s residents. The surrounding countryside offers scenic views, including the nearby Otisco Lake, which is a popular spot for fishing and outdoor recreation. Though small, the town has a strong sense of community, and local events are often held to bring neighbors together.
5. Waldorf
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.11 square miles
- Population: 800 (approx.)
- Zip Code: 56091
- Latitude: 44.1814° N
- Longitude: 93.5180° W
Location and History:
Waldorf is located in the eastern part of Waseca County and was founded in the late 19th century. The town’s economy was originally based on agriculture, with fertile land that produced crops like corn, wheat, and oats. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s provided a boost to the local economy, allowing Waldorf to become a small shipping center for agricultural goods. Over the years, Waldorf has remained a quiet rural community, known for its tight-knit population and scenic surroundings.
Waldorf’s history is closely tied to its agricultural roots, but the town has gradually transitioned into a peaceful residential area. Though it is a small town, Waldorf has managed to maintain a local charm and offers a slower pace of life compared to larger towns and cities. It is an ideal place for people who enjoy rural living but still want access to nearby urban centers.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Waldorf is served by the Waldorf-Pemberton School District, and local students attend Waldorf-Pemberton High School. The town is home to Waldorf Park, a small local park that provides recreational space for the community. The Waldorf Community Center is another key landmark, offering a venue for social events and gatherings. The town also hosts the annual Waldorf Heritage Days, a celebration of the town’s history with events like parades, games, and local performances. The surrounding rural area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking.