Cities and Towns in York County, Nebraska
Founded in 1855, York County is one of 93 counties in the state of Nebraska. Historically, York County was formed from Cass County, Pierce County, and unorganized territory. The city of York is the county seat. With FIPS code of 185, York County has a population of 14,244 and area of 576 square miles (1,492 km²).
List of all cities in York County, NE alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Benedict, NE | 68316 | 402 |
| Bradshaw, NE | 68319 | 402 |
| Gresham, NE | 68367 | 402 |
| Henderson, NE | 68371 | 402 |
| Lushton, NE | 68371 | 402 |
| Mc Cool Junction, NE | 68401 | 402 |
| Thayer, NE | 68460 | 402 |
| Waco, NE | 68460 | 402 |
| York, NE | 68467 | 402 |
Major Cities and Towns in York County, Nebraska
York
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 4.57 square miles
- Population: 8,000+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68467
- Latitude: 40.8765° N
- Longitude: 97.5940° W
Location and History:
York is the county seat of York County and is situated in the southeastern part of Nebraska, approximately 45 miles west of Lincoln, the state capital. The city was founded in 1869, originally serving as a railroad town. The construction of the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad played a significant role in York’s early growth. It was officially incorporated as a city in 1870 and quickly became a central point for local agriculture and trade, primarily focusing on wheat and livestock. York served as a vital agricultural hub throughout the 20th century and, in recent years, has continued to thrive due to its proximity to major highways, including Interstate 80. Over time, the city has maintained a balance between its agricultural roots and the expansion of modern industries.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
York is home to several notable educational institutions, including York Public Schools, which operates multiple primary and secondary schools, as well as York High School. The city is also home to York College, a private Christian liberal arts college that offers undergraduate and graduate programs. Landmark attractions include the historic York County Courthouse, which dates back to the late 19th century, and the strategic location along the Oregon Trail. Other points of interest include the Wessels Living History Farm, where visitors can experience farm life from the 1920s era, and the Holthus Convention Center, a modern venue that hosts a variety of community events and exhibitions. The city also maintains a rich network of parks and recreational facilities, providing opportunities for outdoor activities year-round.
Waco
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.67 square miles
- Population: 500+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68460
- Latitude: 40.7611° N
- Longitude: 97.4283° W
Location and History:
Waco is a small town located in the southeastern corner of York County, about 10 miles southeast of York. The town was established in the 1870s, with its growth closely tied to the expansion of the railroad system. Waco was named after the Waco Indians, a group indigenous to Texas, reflecting the town’s connection to the broader American frontier. The town flourished for a time as a regional trading post and a transportation hub, benefiting from its position along the Burlington and Missouri River Railroad line. Over the years, Waco has remained a rural community, although it has experienced steady growth thanks to its agricultural base and proximity to larger cities like York and Lincoln.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Waco is served by the Waco Public Schools system, which includes an elementary school and high school. The community values its strong educational foundation and close-knit school environment. Major landmarks include the Waco Methodist Church, a historic building dating back to the early 20th century, and the Waco City Park, which features sports fields and playgrounds for residents. The town’s proximity to the recreational opportunities at the nearby Platte River also makes it a favored spot for those seeking outdoor activities such as fishing and bird watching. Despite being a smaller community, Waco has maintained its charm through local festivals, a vibrant sense of community, and preservation of its historic structures.
Bradshaw
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.34 square miles
- Population: 200+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68319
- Latitude: 40.8675° N
- Longitude: 97.6678° W
Location and History:
Bradshaw is a small town located about 20 miles northeast of York. It was established in the late 1800s, and like many other towns in the region, its early growth was driven by the expansion of the railroad. Bradshaw was named after a railroad official, and it developed as a rural farming community. The arrival of the railroad brought business and settlers, establishing the town as a regional trade center for farmers in the area. Though it remains a modestly-sized town, Bradshaw has maintained its identity as a rural agricultural community, where farming remains central to local life. The town’s quiet atmosphere and close-knit community have made it an attractive place for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Bradshaw is served by the Bradshaw Public School, which includes both an elementary and a high school. Despite the town’s small size, it has a proud educational tradition with a focus on community involvement. Local landmarks include the Bradshaw Community Center, a venue for local events and gatherings, and the nearby Bradshaw State Recreation Area, which offers camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities for residents and visitors alike. The town also celebrates its agricultural roots, with annual events like harvest festivals, and boasts a variety of local businesses that support the community’s needs. The blend of small-town charm and agricultural heritage makes Bradshaw an enduring part of York County.
Gresham
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.51 square miles
- Population: 300+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68367
- Latitude: 40.7487° N
- Longitude: 97.5360° W
Location and History:
Gresham is located in central York County, approximately 15 miles south of the city of York. The town was founded in the late 1800s and quickly became a central point for surrounding farmers. Originally named after a railroad official, Gresham became a major shipping and trading hub due to its position along the rail lines. Over the years, Gresham has developed as a tight-knit rural community, with agriculture continuing to play a significant role in the local economy. As with many small Nebraska towns, Gresham’s growth has been closely tied to the rise of commercial agriculture, though in recent decades, its economy has diversified somewhat with small businesses and services serving the surrounding rural area.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Gresham is served by the Gresham Public Schools system, which provides both elementary and secondary education to the town’s youth. The school system is a cornerstone of the community, with local events often centered around the school’s activities. The town’s landmarks include the Gresham Lutheran Church, which has been an important part of the community since the early 1900s, and the Gresham City Park, a local gathering place for outdoor recreation. The Gresham area is also known for its strong agricultural presence, with several farms and ranches contributing to the local economy. The town’s quiet streets and local businesses offer a snapshot of rural life in Nebraska.
Hampton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 0.33 square miles
- Population: 600+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 68344
- Latitude: 40.8144° N
- Longitude: 97.5825° W
Location and History:
Hampton is a small town located in the northeastern section of York County, about 10 miles north of York. The town was established in the early 1880s and named after Hampton, Virginia. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century helped the town establish itself as a commercial center for surrounding agricultural communities. Hampton’s economy has traditionally been based on farming, with a focus on crop production and livestock. While the population remains relatively small, the town has maintained a rural charm and serves as a hub for the surrounding farming community. Today, Hampton is known for its strong sense of community and local pride, as well as its role as a key agricultural center.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Hampton is served by the Hampton Public Schools system, which includes an elementary school and high school. The schools are an integral part of the town, with students participating in various community events and activities. Notable landmarks in Hampton include the Hampton Community Center, which serves as the venue for many local gatherings and celebrations. The town is also home to the Hampton United Methodist Church, which has been an important part of the local community for generations. The town’s close proximity to recreational areas like the Platte River makes it a popular spot for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing. Despite its small size, Hampton is a community rich in history and agricultural tradition.
