Cities and Towns in Worth County, Iowa
Founded on Jan 15, 1851, Worth County is one of 99 counties in the state of Iowa. Historically, Worth County was formed from Mitchell County. The city of Northwood is the county seat. With FIPS code of 195, Worth County has a population of 7,385 and area of 400 square miles (1,036 km²).
List of all cities in Worth County, IA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bolan, IA | 50448 | 641 |
| Fertile, IA | 50434 | 641 |
| Grafton, IA | 50440 | 641 |
| Hanlontown, IA | 50444 | 641 |
| Joice, IA | 50446 | 641 |
| Kensett, IA | 50448 | 641 |
| Manly, IA | 50456 | 641 |
| Northwood, IA | 50459 | 641 |
| Silver Lake, IA | 50459 | 641 |
Major Cities and Towns in Worth County, Iowa
Northwood, Iowa
Overview and History
Northwood is the county seat and largest city in Worth County, Iowa, located near the Iowa-Minnesota border. Established in 1858, Northwood became the county seat due to its strategic location along the Shell Rock River, which helped attract settlers and businesses. The town developed as an agricultural hub, with its economy revolving around farming, grain milling, and livestock. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century further spurred Northwood’s growth, transforming it into a key trade center for the region. Today, Northwood is known for its small-town charm, agricultural roots, and vibrant community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Northwood is served by the Northwood-Kensett Community School District, with Northwood-Kensett High School being the primary educational institution. Key landmarks in the town include the historic Worth County Courthouse, built in 1893, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Northwood Swimming Pool and Swensrud Park provide recreational activities for residents, while the Northwood-Kensett Viking Activity Center hosts local sports and events. The annual Founders Day Celebration brings the community together with parades, food, and live entertainment. Northwood’s close proximity to the Diamond Jo Casino offers additional entertainment and dining options.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.53 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,007 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50459
- Latitude: 43.4456° N
- Longitude: 93.2197° W
Manly, Iowa
Overview and History
Manly is a small city located in southern Worth County, near the junction of two major railroads: the Rock Island Line and the Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul and Pacific Railroad. Founded in 1877, Manly quickly developed into a significant railroad hub, with its economy centered around rail transport and related industries. The town was named after J.C. Manly, a railroad official who played a key role in its establishment. While the railroad industry has declined over the years, Manly has maintained its status as a small agricultural community, with corn, soybeans, and livestock forming the backbone of its local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Manly is part of the Central Springs Community School District, with Central Springs High School serving the town’s students. Major landmarks include the Manly Junction Railroad Museum, which celebrates the town’s railroading history, and the Manly Public Library. The town’s main recreational area is the Manly City Park, which features playgrounds and sports fields. Manly hosts an annual Railroad Ag Days festival, celebrating its railroad and agricultural heritage with parades, tractor pulls, and family-friendly activities. The town’s proximity to the Shell Rock River also offers opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.25 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,232 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50456
- Latitude: 43.2853° N
- Longitude: 93.2028° W
Kensett, Iowa
Overview and History
Kensett is a small town located in central Worth County, established in 1872. Named after a local railroad official, the town developed as an agricultural community, with local farmers growing corn and soybeans, as well as raising livestock. Kensett grew slowly but steadily, maintaining its rural character and agricultural roots. Although it has never grown into a large town, Kensett remains a close-knit community where farming continues to be the primary economic activity. The town’s rural charm and strong sense of community make it a peaceful place to live and work.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Kensett is also part of the Northwood-Kensett Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Northwood. While Kensett is small, it boasts a few key landmarks, including the Kensett Community Center, which serves as a hub for local events and gatherings. The town also has a beautiful park with playgrounds and picnic areas. Each year, Kensett hosts community events like the Kensett Summer Celebration, featuring games, food, and local entertainment. The town’s agricultural setting offers scenic views of Iowa’s rural landscape, and residents enjoy a quiet, relaxed lifestyle.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.36 square miles
- Population: Approximately 240 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50448
- Latitude: 43.3711° N
- Longitude: 93.2044° W
Grafton, Iowa
Overview and History
Grafton is a small town in southeastern Worth County, founded in the late 19th century as a farming and railroad community. The town was platted in 1878 and developed along the railroad line, which was essential for transporting agricultural goods from the surrounding farmlands. Grafton’s growth was closely tied to the success of local farmers, with corn, soybeans, and livestock forming the foundation of the economy. Today, Grafton continues to serve as a small agricultural town with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its rural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Grafton is part of the Central Springs Community School District, with students attending schools in neighboring communities. Notable landmarks include the Grafton Depot Museum, which preserves the town’s railroad history, and the Grafton Community Center, where local events and gatherings are held. Grafton’s annual Turkey Day Festival celebrates the town’s farming heritage with parades, food, and live entertainment. The town is also surrounded by scenic farmlands and offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and birdwatching in nearby natural areas.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.31 square miles
- Population: Approximately 252 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50440
- Latitude: 43.3294° N
- Longitude: 93.0733° W
Fertile, Iowa
Overview and History
Fertile is a small town located in the southeastern part of Worth County, along the banks of the Winnebago River. The town was founded in 1856 and named for the fertile soil in the surrounding area, which attracted early settlers interested in farming. Fertile developed as a small agricultural community, with local farmers growing crops and raising livestock. The town’s location along the river provided a steady water source for farming and helped establish Fertile as a local center for agriculture. Over the years, Fertile has maintained its rural charm, with farming continuing to be the primary economic activity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fertile is part of the Forest City Community School District, with students attending schools in nearby Forest City. The town’s key landmarks include the Fertile Public Library and the historic Fertile Mill, which operated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Winnebago River provides opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, canoeing, and wildlife observation. Fertile hosts several annual community events, including a summer festival that brings residents together for food, games, and local entertainment. The town’s picturesque setting along the river and its friendly, small-town atmosphere make it an inviting place for both residents and visitors.
Area, Population, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.28 square miles
- Population: Approximately 370 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 50434
- Latitude: 43.2628° N
- Longitude: 93.4283° W
