Cities and Towns in White County, Indiana
Founded on Feb 1, 1834, White County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, White County was formed from Wabash New Purchase and un-organized. The city of Monticello is the county seat. With FIPS code of 181, White County has a population of 24,651 and area of 505 square miles (1,308 km²).
List of all cities in White County, IN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brookston, IN | 47923 | 765 |
| Buffalo, IN | 47925 | 574 |
| Burnettsville, IN | 47926 | 574 |
| Chalmers, IN | 47929 | 219 |
| Idaville, IN | 47950 | 574 |
| Indiana Beach, IN | 47960 | 574 |
| Monon, IN | 47959 | 219 |
| Monticello, IN | 47960 | 574 |
| Reynolds, IN | 47980 | 219 |
| Wolcott, IN | 47995 | 219 |
Major Cities and Towns in White County, Indiana
1. Monticello
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.69 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,300 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47960
- Latitude: 40.7456° N
- Longitude: 86.7642° W
Location and History
Monticello is the county seat of White County, located in northwestern Indiana, near the Tippecanoe River and Lake Shafer. Established in 1834, the city was named after Thomas Jefferson’s estate in Virginia, reflecting the founders’ admiration for the third U.S. president. Monticello’s early growth was fueled by agriculture, with the fertile land around the Tippecanoe River supporting corn, soybeans, and wheat farming. The development of Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman in the 1920s transformed Monticello into a popular tourist destination, with boating, fishing, and water sports attracting visitors from across the region. Monticello’s tourism industry remains a vital part of its economy today, alongside agriculture and local businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Monticello is served by the Twin Lakes School Corporation, with Twin Lakes High School being the primary secondary institution. Major landmarks include the Indiana Beach amusement park on Lake Shafer, which draws thousands of visitors annually for its rides, water attractions, and entertainment. The White County Courthouse, built in 1895, is a key architectural landmark in the downtown area. Lake Shafer and Lake Freeman offer boating, fishing, and camping opportunities, making Monticello a hub for outdoor recreation. Additionally, Altherr Nature Park and the historic Madam Carroll paddleboat are popular local attractions that contribute to the city’s appeal.
2. Brookston
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.75 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47923
- Latitude: 40.6014° N
- Longitude: 86.8669° W
Location and History
Brookston is a small town located in the southern part of White County, about 15 miles south of Monticello. Founded in 1853, Brookston was named after James Brooks, a prominent figure in the development of the railroads in Indiana. The arrival of the railroad transformed Brookston into a thriving agricultural community, with local farmers producing corn, soybeans, and livestock for the markets of Indianapolis and Chicago. Today, Brookston retains its rural charm while serving as a residential and agricultural hub for the surrounding area. Its location along the railroad and close proximity to major highways continues to support its economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brookston is part of the Frontier School Corporation, with Frontier High School serving local students. Key landmarks in the town include the Brookston-Prairie Township Public Library, which offers community events and educational resources, and Pioneer Park, which features playgrounds, sports fields, and a pavilion for gatherings. The town is also home to the annual Brookston Apple Popcorn Festival, a celebration of the town’s agricultural heritage that draws visitors from across the region for food, entertainment, and crafts. Brookston’s rich history and agricultural legacy make it a close-knit community with a strong sense of local pride.
3. Monon
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.88 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,700 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47959
- Latitude: 40.8647° N
- Longitude: 86.8797° W
Location and History
Monon is a small town in northern White County, established in 1853 when the Monon Railroad extended through the area. The town’s name is derived from a Native American word meaning “swift running,” likely referencing the nearby Monon Creek. Monon became an important railroad town, with the Monon Railroad serving as a major transportation route between Chicago, Indianapolis, and Louisville. The town’s economy grew around agriculture and railroad industries, with grain elevators and agricultural processing facilities becoming central to its development. While the railroad’s significance has diminished, agriculture continues to play a key role in Monon’s economy today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Monon is part of the North White School Corporation, with North White High School providing education to local students. Major landmarks in the town include the Monon Community Park, which offers sports fields, playgrounds, and picnic areas for residents and visitors. The town celebrates its railroad heritage with the Monon Railroad Historical Society, which preserves the history of the Monon Railroad and its impact on the community. The nearby Tippecanoe River State Park provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and hiking, adding to Monon’s appeal for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a rural lifestyle.
4. Reynolds
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: Approximately 530 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47980
- Latitude: 40.7559° N
- Longitude: 86.8741° W
Location and History
Reynolds is a small town in central White County, founded in 1854 and named after local pioneer Samuel Reynolds. The town developed as an agricultural community, with its location along the railroad making it a key point for the transport of grain and livestock. Over time, Reynolds remained a primarily rural town, with farming continuing to be the primary economic driver. The town is also known as the “BioTown, USA” project site, a designation it earned in 2005 when it became part of a state initiative to create a self-sustaining community powered by renewable energy sources derived from agricultural waste and biofuels.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Reynolds is part of the North White School Corporation, with students attending North White High School in nearby Monon. The town is home to the Reynolds Community Park, which offers a small playground, picnic areas, and space for community events. The BioTown USA initiative is one of Reynolds’ most significant projects, highlighting its efforts to promote renewable energy and sustainability in agriculture. This project has drawn attention from across the country, making Reynolds a unique example of innovation in small-town America. The surrounding farmland and rural landscapes provide a peaceful setting for residents seeking a quieter lifestyle.
5. Wolcott
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.44 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 47995
- Latitude: 40.7581° N
- Longitude: 87.0417° W
Location and History
Wolcott is a small town located in the northeastern part of White County, near the border with Jasper County. The town was founded in 1861 by Anson Wolcott, a New York native who saw potential in the area’s fertile farmland. Wolcott was established along the rail lines, which facilitated the transport of agricultural goods and contributed to the town’s early growth. Like many towns in White County, Wolcott’s economy has historically been tied to farming, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary products. The town’s rural charm and close-knit community have been maintained over the years, making Wolcott an attractive place for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wolcott is part of the Tri-County School Corporation, with Tri-County High School serving local students. The town’s landmarks include Wolcott Park, which features sports fields, a playground, and a pavilion for community events. The Wolcott House, built by the town’s founder, is a historical landmark that reflects the town’s rich heritage. The town’s annual Fourth of July celebration includes a parade, fireworks, and local festivities, bringing the community together each summer. Wolcott’s peaceful setting, combined with its agricultural roots and historic landmarks, makes it a welcoming town with a strong sense of history and community spirit.
