Cities and Towns in Whitley County, Indiana
Founded on Feb 7, 1835, Whitley County is one of 92 counties in the state of Indiana. Historically, Whitley County was formed from un-organized. The city of Columbia City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 183, Whitley County has a population of 34,430 and area of 336 square miles (870 km²).
List of all cities in Whitley County, IN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ari, IN | 46723 | 260 |
| Big Lake, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Blue Lake, IN | 46723 | 260 |
| Churubusco, IN | 46723 | 260 |
| Coesse, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Collamer, IN | 46787 | 260 |
| Collins, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Columbia City, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Eel River, IN | 46723 | 260 |
| Etna, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Etna-Troy, IN | 46764 | 260 |
| Goose Lake, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Larwill, IN | 46764 | 260 |
| Laud, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Loon Lake, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Lorane, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Luther, IN | 46787 | 260 |
| Ormas, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Peabody, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Raber, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| South Whitley, IN | 46787 | 260 |
| Thorncreek, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Tri Lakes, IN | 46725 | 260 |
| Tunker, IN | 46787 | 260 |
| Wilson Lake, IN | 46725 | 260 |
Major Cities and Towns in Whitley County, Indiana
1. Columbia City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 5.62 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46725
- Latitude: 41.1576° N
- Longitude: 85.4880° W
Location and History
Columbia City is the county seat of Whitley County, located in northeastern Indiana, approximately 20 miles west of Fort Wayne. The city was founded in 1839 and named after Columbia Township. Its early development was fueled by its role as a hub for agriculture and trade, thanks to its location along key transportation routes, including the Lincoln Highway. The arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further boosted its growth, turning Columbia City into a regional center for commerce. Over the years, the city has expanded its economy beyond agriculture, adding manufacturing, healthcare, and services, while retaining its small-town charm. The historic downtown area is a reminder of Columbia City’s rich heritage, with preserved buildings that date back to the 19th century.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Columbia City is served by the Whitley County Consolidated Schools district, with Columbia City High School being the main educational institution. The city is also home to Ivy Tech Community College, offering higher education opportunities. Notable landmarks include the Whitley County Courthouse, a historic structure built in 1888, and Morsches Park, which provides recreational opportunities with trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Peabody Public Library is a community hub offering educational programs and cultural events. The city’s annual Old Settlers Days festival celebrates its pioneer heritage with parades, music, and local food, drawing visitors from across the region.
2. Churubusco
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.89 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,800 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46723
- Latitude: 41.2317° N
- Longitude: 85.3194° W
Location and History
Churubusco is located in the northeastern part of Whitley County, about 15 miles northwest of Fort Wayne. The town was established in the mid-19th century and was named after the Battle of Churubusco, a key event in the Mexican-American War. Originally a small farming community, Churubusco developed as an agricultural center, with its economy based on the production of crops like corn and soybeans. Over time, the town grew into a close-knit community while maintaining its agricultural roots. Churubusco is also famous for the legend of the “Beast of Busco,” a giant turtle reportedly sighted in the area in the 1940s, which has since become a local legend.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Churubusco is served by Smith-Green Community Schools, with Churubusco High School providing secondary education. Notable landmarks include Turtle Town Park, which honors the town’s famous turtle legend and offers sports facilities, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The town’s annual Turtle Days Festival is a major event that celebrates the local folklore with parades, turtle races, and carnival rides. Other key landmarks include the Churubusco Public Library and the local farmers’ market, which highlights the area’s agricultural heritage. Churubusco’s small-town atmosphere and friendly community make it a great place for families and those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
3. South Whitley
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.74 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,700 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46787
- Latitude: 41.0842° N
- Longitude: 85.6278° W
Location and History
South Whitley is located in the southwestern part of Whitley County, along the Eel River. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and initially served as a stop along the railroad, which played a crucial role in its growth. Like many towns in the region, South Whitley’s economy was historically based on agriculture, with local farms producing a variety of crops and livestock. Over time, the town developed a small industrial base, including manufacturing and services, while remaining a rural community with deep ties to its agricultural heritage. Today, South Whitley retains its small-town charm and is known for its historic buildings and scenic location along the river.
Major Schools and Landmarks
South Whitley is part of Whitko Community School Corporation, with Whitko High School serving students from the town and surrounding areas. Key landmarks include South Whitley Town Park, which offers recreational facilities such as sports fields, playgrounds, and a walking path along the Eel River. The town’s historical district includes several well-preserved 19th-century buildings, reflecting its rich history. The annual South Whitley Fall Festival brings the community together for parades, local food, and entertainment. The Eel River also provides opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities, making South Whitley a popular destination for nature lovers and those who appreciate small-town life.
4. Larwill
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.11 square miles
- Population: Approximately 275 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46764
- Latitude: 41.1778° N
- Longitude: 85.6211° W
Location and History
Larwill is a small town located in central Whitley County, along U.S. Route 30. Founded in the mid-1800s as a railroad town, Larwill was originally named Huntsville before being renamed to honor William and Joseph Larwill, who were instrumental in bringing the railroad to the area. The town grew modestly as a rural community, with agriculture and small-scale trade forming the backbone of its economy. While Larwill has remained a small residential community, its historical connection to the railroad and its proximity to larger towns like Columbia City and Warsaw have kept it a peaceful yet accessible place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Larwill is also part of Whitko Community School Corporation, with students attending schools in nearby South Whitley. The town’s most notable landmark is the Larwill Depot, a reminder of the town’s railroad heritage. Larwill’s rural setting provides residents with access to scenic farmland and outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching in nearby nature areas. The small-town atmosphere and proximity to U.S. Route 30 make it a convenient location for commuters, while the community’s quiet charm continues to attract residents who appreciate rural living.
5. Tri-Lakes
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.13 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 46725 (shares with Columbia City)
- Latitude: 41.2745° N
- Longitude: 85.4883° W
Location and History
Tri-Lakes is an unincorporated community in Whitley County, located about 5 miles northeast of Columbia City. As its name suggests, the community is situated around three lakes—Shriner Lake, Round Lake, and Little Cedar Lake—making it a popular destination for recreational activities. Tri-Lakes developed in the mid-20th century as a summer getaway, with many of the homes originally built as seasonal cottages. Over time, Tri-Lakes has grown into a year-round residential community, attracting families and retirees seeking a quiet lakeside lifestyle while being close to larger towns.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tri-Lakes is served by Whitley County Consolidated Schools, with students attending Columbia City High School. The primary landmarks in the area are the three lakes themselves, which offer boating, fishing, swimming, and other water-based activities. The Tri-Lakes Conservation Club plays an important role in preserving the natural beauty of the area and organizing community events. The lakes are surrounded by private homes, public parks, and boat ramps, making them the focal point of the community’s recreational and social life. Tri-Lakes remains a tranquil lakeside community with easy access to the amenities of Columbia City and Fort Wayne.