Cities and Towns in Winnebago County, Illinois
Founded in 1836, Winnebago County is one of 102 counties in the state of Illinois. Historically, Winnebago County was formed from Jo Daviess County. The city of Rockford is the county seat. With FIPS code of 201, Winnebago County has a population of 283,119 and area of 513 square miles (1,329 km²).
List of all cities in Winnebago County, IL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beloit, IL | 61080 | 815/779 |
| Cherry Valley, IL | 61016 | 815/779 |
| Durand, IL | 61024 | 815/779 |
| Irene, IL | 61016 | 815/779 |
| Loves Park, IL | 61111 | 815/779 |
| 61115 | 815/779 | |
| 61130 | 815/779 | |
| 61131 | 815/779 | |
| 61132 | 815/779 | |
| Machesney Park, IL | 61103 | 815/779 |
| 61111 | 815/779 | |
| 61115 | 815/779 | |
| Morristown, IL | 61109 | 815/779 |
| New Milford, IL | 61109 | 815/779 |
| Pecatonica, IL | 61063 | 815/779 |
| Rockford, IL | 61101 | 815/779 |
| 61102 | 815/779 | |
| 61103 | 815/779 | |
| 61104 | 815/779 | |
| 61105 | 815/779 | |
| 61106 | 815/779 | |
| 61107 | 815/779 | |
| 61108 | 815/779 | |
| 61109 | 815/779 | |
| 61110 | 815/779 | |
| 61112 | 815/779 | |
| 61114 | 815/779 | |
| 61125 | 815/779 | |
| 61126 | 815/779 | |
| 61072 | 815/779 | |
| Roscoe, IL | 61073 | 815/779 |
| Seward, IL | 61077 | 815/779 |
| Shirland, IL | 61079 | 815/779 |
| South Beloit, IL | 61080 | 815/779 |
| Winnebago, IL | 61088 | 815/779 |
Major Cities and Towns in Winnebago County, Illinois
1. Rockford
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 64.39 square miles
- Population: Approximately 147,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 61101, 61102, 61103, 61104, 61107, 61108, 61109, 61114
- Latitude: 42.2711° N
- Longitude: 89.0937° W
Location and History
Rockford is the largest city in Winnebago County and is located on the banks of the Rock River, about 90 miles northwest of Chicago. Founded in 1834, Rockford was originally a small settlement known for its abundant water power and fertile land. The city grew rapidly during the Industrial Revolution, becoming a major manufacturing hub in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, specializing in machine tools, furniture, and hardware. Rockford was historically nicknamed “The Forest City” because of its tree-lined streets and beautiful parks. Its growth as an industrial center continued throughout the 20th century, and today it is a key economic and cultural hub in northern Illinois.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rockford is home to Rock Valley College and Rockford University, both of which offer higher education opportunities. Rockford Public School District 205 is the largest K-12 school district in the city. Major landmarks include Anderson Japanese Gardens, one of the highest-rated Japanese gardens in North America, and the Coronado Performing Arts Center, a beautifully restored historic theater. The Burpee Museum of Natural History and the Rockford Art Museum also contribute to the city’s vibrant cultural scene. Rock Cut State Park, just north of the city, offers a range of outdoor activities and is a popular destination for hiking, fishing, and camping.
2. Machesney Park
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 13.52 square miles
- Population: Approximately 23,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 61115
- Latitude: 42.3475° N
- Longitude: 89.0399° W
Location and History
Machesney Park is located just north of Rockford, along the Rock River, and is part of the Rockford Metropolitan Statistical Area. The village was incorporated in 1981, making it one of the younger communities in Winnebago County. It was named after Machesney Airport, which operated in the area until the mid-20th century. Initially a quiet residential area, Machesney Park has seen substantial growth in recent decades due to its proximity to Rockford and its access to commercial development. It offers a suburban lifestyle while maintaining close ties with the larger city.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Harlem High School is the primary secondary education institution in Machesney Park, serving students from both the village and neighboring communities. The village features several parks, including Schoonmaker Park, which offers sports fields and playgrounds. The Machesney Towne Center is a key shopping and commercial area in the village. Additionally, the nearby Rock River provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. Residents and visitors also enjoy proximity to the Rock Cut State Park, which offers a vast array of outdoor recreational opportunities just a short drive away.
3. Loves Park
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 16.45 square miles
- Population: Approximately 23,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 61111, 61130, 61131
- Latitude: 42.3203° N
- Longitude: 89.0320° W
Location and History
Loves Park is a suburban city located just to the northeast of Rockford and adjacent to Machesney Park. The city is named after Malcolm Love, a prominent industrialist and early landowner in the area. Incorporated as a city in 1947, Loves Park grew significantly after World War II, as many families moved from Rockford seeking a suburban lifestyle. The city has benefited from its proximity to Rockford while developing its own distinct identity, with a blend of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Its location along the Rock River has also made it a popular area for recreational activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Loves Park is served by the Harlem School District, with Harlem High School being the main institution for secondary education. One of the most well-known landmarks in the city is the Rockford Speedway, which has been hosting stock car races since 1948 and remains a key attraction for motorsport fans. The city is also home to Martin Park, which features a disc golf course, and Sportscore Two, a massive sports complex with soccer fields and other recreational facilities. Another popular spot is the Sinnissippi Bike Path, which runs along the Rock River and offers scenic views and outdoor activities for locals and visitors.
4. South Beloit
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 6.13 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,600 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 61080
- Latitude: 42.4822° N
- Longitude: 89.0345° W
Location and History
South Beloit is located on the northern edge of Winnebago County, directly adjacent to Beloit, Wisconsin. The city grew as an industrial and transportation hub, largely due to its location along the Rock River and its proximity to Beloit’s manufacturing industries. South Beloit was incorporated in 1917 and has maintained its close relationship with its larger neighbor to the north. Historically, the city’s economy was based on manufacturing and agriculture, but it has diversified in recent years, with residential development increasing as people seek affordable housing near the Wisconsin border.
Major Schools and Landmarks
South Beloit is served by South Beloit High School and Prairie Hill Elementary School District, providing educational services to the community. A notable landmark is the Nature at the Confluence Environmental Learning Center, where the Rock River and Turtle Creek converge, offering educational programs and nature trails. The South Beloit Historical Society Museum preserves the city’s rich industrial heritage. Additionally, the city features several parks, including City Park and South Beloit Park, where community events and sports activities take place. With its close proximity to Beloit, residents also benefit from the cultural and recreational offerings of its larger neighbor.
5. Roscoe
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 10.48 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,800 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 61073
- Latitude: 42.4131° N
- Longitude: 89.0107° W
Location and History
Roscoe is located along the Rock River in the northern part of Winnebago County, near the Illinois-Wisconsin state line. The village was settled in the early 1830s and was historically an agricultural community. Over time, Roscoe developed as a residential suburb, especially as the Rockford metropolitan area expanded. While it retains its small-town charm, Roscoe has seen significant growth in recent years due to its convenient location near major highways and its proximity to both Rockford and Beloit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Roscoe is served by the Hononegah Community High School, which has a strong reputation for academic and athletic achievements. The village features several parks, including Riverside Park and Leland Park, which offer opportunities for outdoor recreation. A key local landmark is the Stone Bridge Trail, a scenic rail-trail that offers biking and hiking paths along the Rock River. Roscoe is also known for its annual Fall Festival, which brings together the community for parades, entertainment, and local food vendors. Its proximity to the Rock River ensures that residents have ample access to fishing, boating, and other water-based activities.
