Cities and Towns in Winnebago County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Winnebago County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Winnebago County was formed from Kossuth County. The city of Forest City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 189, Winnebago County has a population of 10,656 and area of 400 square miles (1,036 km²).
List of all cities in Winnebago County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Buffalo Center, IA | 50424 | 641 |
| Forest City, IA | 50436 | 641 |
| Lake Mills, IA | 50450 | 641 |
| Leland, IA | 50453 | 641 |
| Neils, IA | 50453 | 641 |
| Rake, IA | 50465 | 641 |
| Scarville, IA | 50473 | 641 |
| Thompson, IA | 50478 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Winnebago County, Iowa
Forest City, Iowa
Overview and History
Forest City is the county seat and largest city in Winnebago County, Iowa. Founded in 1855, the city was named for the dense forests that once covered the area. Forest City grew steadily as a regional center for agriculture and trade, particularly due to its location along the Winnebago River. The city’s economy took a significant turn in the 20th century when it became home to Winnebago Industries, a major manufacturer of recreational vehicles (RVs). The company’s success has made Forest City a key player in the RV industry and contributed significantly to its growth. Today, Forest City remains a vibrant community known for its small-town charm, strong industrial base, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Forest City is part of the Forest City Community School District, with Forest City High School serving local students. The city is also home to Waldorf University, a private liberal arts college founded in 1903. Landmarks in Forest City include the Winnebago County Courthouse and the Mansion Museum, which showcases local history. The Forest City Bike Trail and Pammel Park offer outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and camping. The annual Tree Town Music Festival draws visitors from across the region. In addition, the nearby Pilot Knob State Park features one of Iowa’s highest points and offers scenic views and hiking trails.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 4.64 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,151 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50436
- Latitude: 43.2625° N
- Longitude: 93.6377° W
Lake Mills, Iowa
Overview and History
Lake Mills is a city located in the northeastern part of Winnebago County, close to the Minnesota border. Founded in 1869, the town grew around the arrival of the railroad, which helped local farmers transport grain, livestock, and goods to larger markets. The town is named after a mill that was built on nearby Rice Lake in the 1850s. Lake Mills’ economy has traditionally been tied to agriculture, and the town continues to thrive as a farming community with a rich heritage. Over the years, Lake Mills has expanded its industries, with local businesses contributing to a diverse economic base.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lake Mills is served by the Lake Mills Community School District, with Lake Mills High School being the primary educational institution. Notable landmarks in the town include the Lake Mills Public Library and the Winnebago County Historical Society Museum, which preserves local history and artifacts. Rice Lake, located nearby, is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and camping. The annual July Jubilee celebrates Lake Mills’ community spirit with parades, fireworks, and live entertainment. The town’s well-maintained parks and proximity to natural areas make it a pleasant place to live and visit.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.96 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,067 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50450
- Latitude: 43.4192° N
- Longitude: 93.5325° W
Buffalo Center, Iowa
Overview and History
Buffalo Center is a small town located in western Winnebago County. Established in 1892, it developed primarily as an agricultural community, benefiting from the rich farmland that surrounds it. Buffalo Center became a trade and service hub for local farmers, with corn, soybeans, and livestock forming the backbone of the local economy. Its growth was further aided by the arrival of the railroad, which connected the town to larger markets. Despite its small size, Buffalo Center has a strong sense of community and continues to serve as a regional center for agriculture and rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Buffalo Center is part of the North Iowa Community School District, with North Iowa High School serving students from the town and surrounding areas. Key landmarks include the Buffalo Center Public Library and the Heritage Town Center, which hosts local events and community gatherings. Buffalo Center is known for its annual celebrations, including the Heritage Days Festival, which features parades, games, and local food vendors. The town’s rural setting provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking, making it an attractive place for those who enjoy nature and small-town living.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: Approximately 857 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50424
- Latitude: 43.3861° N
- Longitude: 93.9481° W
Leland, Iowa
Overview and History
Leland is a small town located in central Winnebago County, founded in 1887. The town developed as an agricultural community, with local farms producing corn, soybeans, and livestock. Leland’s early growth was supported by the arrival of the railroad, which allowed farmers to easily transport their goods to larger markets. Although Leland has remained a small town, it has maintained its agricultural roots and close-knit community. Today, Leland continues to thrive as a quiet, rural town that values its history and connection to the land.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Leland is part of the Forest City Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Forest City. While Leland is small, it features a few key landmarks, including the Leland Community Center, which serves as a gathering place for local events. The town also has a local park with playgrounds and picnic areas, offering recreational space for residents. Each summer, Leland hosts its annual town festival, which includes a parade, games, and family-friendly activities. The town’s rural location and proximity to larger cities like Forest City provide residents with the benefits of quiet, small-town living while still having access to urban amenities.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.26 square miles
- Population: Approximately 289 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50453
- Latitude: 43.3444° N
- Longitude: 93.6356° W
Thompson, Iowa
Overview and History
Thompson is a small town located in northern Winnebago County, close to the Minnesota border. Founded in 1892, Thompson grew as a result of the expanding railroad system, which helped transport agricultural products from local farms to larger markets. The town’s economy has long been based on agriculture, with corn, soybeans, and livestock being the primary commodities produced by local farmers. Over the years, Thompson has maintained its rural identity and remains a small, friendly community where agriculture continues to play a central role.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Thompson is part of the North Iowa Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Buffalo Center. The town’s main landmarks include the Thompson Public Library and the Thompson Historical Society, which preserves local history and cultural artifacts. Thompson also features a local park with playgrounds and picnic areas, offering recreational space for residents. Each year, the town hosts community events such as the Thompson Days Festival, which includes parades, games, and local entertainment, highlighting the town’s strong sense of community.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: Approximately 502 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50478
- Latitude: 43.3706° N
- Longitude: 93.7717° W
