Cities and Towns in Washington County, Wisconsin

Founded in 1836, Washington County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Washington County was formed from Brown and Milwaukee Counties. The city of West Bend is the county seat. With FIPS code of 131, Washington County has a population of 137,175 and area of 430.70 square miles (1,116 km²).

List of all cities in Washington County, WI alphabetically

  • Allenton, WI
  • Colgate, WI
  • Germantown, WI
  • Hartford, WI
  • Hubertus, WI
  • Jackson, WI
  • Kewaskum, WI
  • Newburg, WI
  • Richfield, WI
  • Slinger, WI
  • West Bend, WI

Major Cities and Towns in Washington County, Wisconsin

1. West Bend

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 15.57 square miles
  • Population: 31,752 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 53090, 53095
  • Latitude: 43.4253° N
  • Longitude: 88.1834° W

Location and History

West Bend is the county seat of Washington County, located along the Milwaukee River in southeastern Wisconsin. The city was founded in 1845 when the Milwaukee River was chosen as the site for a sawmill, and soon after, the settlement began to grow as an agricultural hub. West Bend was incorporated as a city in 1885 and became known for its manufacturing industries, including the production of agricultural tools and later, small kitchen appliances by the West Bend Company. The city’s development was further bolstered by the arrival of the railroad, making it a significant trading center in the region. Today, West Bend combines a rich historical heritage with modern amenities, making it a vibrant community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

West Bend is served by the West Bend School District, which includes West Bend East and West Bend West High Schools, both of which offer strong academic and extracurricular programs. Major landmarks include the Museum of Wisconsin Art, which showcases the state’s rich artistic heritage, and Regner Park, a popular site for outdoor recreation, featuring a swimming pond, sports facilities, and walking trails. The Historic West Bend Theatre, recently restored, is a cultural centerpiece in the downtown area. The city’s proximity to the Kettle Moraine State Forest provides additional opportunities for hiking, biking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region.

2. Germantown

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 34.48 square miles
  • Population: 20,081 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 53022
  • Latitude: 43.2281° N
  • Longitude: 88.1137° W

Location and History

Germantown is located in the southeastern corner of Washington County, bordering Milwaukee County to the south. The village was originally settled in the 1840s by German immigrants, which heavily influenced the area’s culture and development. Germantown was officially incorporated in 1924, but it remained primarily rural and agricultural until the post-World War II suburban expansion, which transformed it into a residential community. Today, Germantown is known for its blend of suburban living and historical preservation, with several areas of the village recognized for their historical significance.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Germantown is served by the Germantown School District, which includes Germantown High School, known for its academic excellence and strong sports programs. Major landmarks include the Dheinsville Historic Park, which preserves the village’s German heritage with several restored 19th-century buildings, and the Germantown Historical Society Museum. The village also boasts numerous parks, such as Kinderberg Park, which offers sports facilities, playgrounds, and trails. Germantown’s annual Oktoberfest celebration is a major event that honors the community’s German roots with traditional music, food, and activities, reflecting the village’s rich cultural heritage.

3. Hartford

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 8.02 square miles
  • Population: 15,584 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 53027
  • Latitude: 43.3181° N
  • Longitude: 88.3784° W

Location and History

Hartford is located in the northwestern part of Washington County, with a small portion extending into Dodge County. The city was founded in the 1840s, and its name was chosen after Hartford, Connecticut. Initially, Hartford developed as an agricultural community, but it quickly became an industrial hub due to the arrival of the railroad in the 1850s. The city’s industrial growth was further fueled by the presence of companies like the Hartford Manufacturing Company, which produced various goods, including automobile parts. Hartford’s industrial base continued to grow throughout the 20th century, and today it is known for its strong manufacturing sector and vibrant community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hartford is served by the Hartford Union High School District, with Hartford Union High School being the primary educational institution. Major landmarks include the Schauer Arts Center, which hosts a variety of cultural performances and events, and the Wisconsin Automotive Museum, which showcases the city’s rich automotive history with a collection of classic cars and locomotives. Pike Lake State Park, located just outside the city, offers opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Kettle Moraine landscape. Hartford’s historic downtown area features well-preserved buildings and a variety of shops and restaurants, reflecting the city’s blend of history and modernity.

4. Richfield

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 36.42 square miles
  • Population: 11,739 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 53017, 53033, 53076
  • Latitude: 43.2439° N
  • Longitude: 88.1829° W

Location and History

Richfield is a village located in the southern part of Washington County, bordered by the Kettle Moraine State Forest to the west. The area was first settled in the 1840s, primarily by German and Irish immigrants who were attracted by the rich farmland. Richfield remained largely agricultural until the latter half of the 20th century when suburban development began to take hold. The village was officially incorporated in 2008, reflecting its growth and the desire of residents to preserve its rural character while accommodating new residential and commercial development. Today, Richfield is known for its scenic landscapes, rural charm, and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Richfield is served by the Germantown and Holy Hill Area School Districts, with students attending schools in nearby communities. Major landmarks include the Richfield Historical Park, which features restored 19th-century buildings such as the Messer/Mayer Mill, a water-powered gristmill that is a centerpiece of the park. The village is also home to the Scenic Drive, which offers picturesque views of the Kettle Moraine landscape, and several parks and nature preserves that provide opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and enjoying the outdoors. Richfield’s annual Thresheree, a festival celebrating its agricultural heritage, draws visitors with demonstrations of antique farming equipment and other historical activities.

5. Jackson

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 3.97 square miles
  • Population: 7,185 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 53037
  • Latitude: 43.3225° N
  • Longitude: 88.1679° W

Location and History

Jackson is a village located in the southeastern part of Washington County, near the border with Ozaukee County. The area was first settled in the 1840s and was named after President Andrew Jackson. Originally, Jackson developed as a small agricultural community, with farming being the main economic activity. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred modest growth, but Jackson remained a quiet rural community until the latter half of the 20th century when suburban development began to accelerate. The village was incorporated in 1912, and today it is known for its residential neighborhoods, community parks, and growing commercial sector.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jackson is part of the West Bend School District, with students attending schools in nearby West Bend. Major landmarks include the Jackson Marsh Wildlife Area, a large nature preserve that offers opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and other outdoor activities. The Jackson Area Community Center serves as a hub for local events, fitness programs, and community gatherings. The village also hosts an annual Action in Jackson festival, which includes a parade, live music, and family-friendly activities, reflecting the community’s strong sense of togetherness and local pride. Jackson’s blend of suburban amenities and rural charm makes it an attractive place to live in Washington County.

6. Slinger

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 5.24 square miles
  • Population: 5,992 (as of 2020)
  • Zip Codes: 53086
  • Latitude: 43.3328° N
  • Longitude: 88.2821° W

Location and History

Slinger is a village located in the central part of Washington County, at the junction of Highways 41 and 60. The village was originally known as Schleisingerville, after the founder Baruch Schleisinger Weil, who established it in 1845. The name was shortened to Slinger in 1921. Slinger grew as a result of its location along key transportation routes, including the railroad, which made it a vital hub for shipping agricultural products. Over time, Slinger evolved into a residential community with a mix of industrial and commercial enterprises. Today, it is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, strong schools, and outdoor recreation opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Slinger is served by the Slinger School District, with Slinger High School being well-regarded for both academics and athletics. Major landmarks include Little Switzerland, a popular ski resort that attracts visitors from across the region, and the Slinger Speedway, a historic racetrack that hosts regular stock car races. The village is also home to the Richfield Historical Society Museum, which preserves local history and offers educational programs. Slinger’s proximity to Pike Lake State Park provides residents and visitors with ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying nature, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.