Cedar County, Iowa

Cedar County takes its name from the Cedar River, which flows across the southwestern part of the county. Tipton, the county seat, is centrally located, giving it a prominent place within the county’s landscape.

Visitors can explore the Herbert Hoover National Historic Site in West Branch, the birthplace of the 31st president of the United States. For a quieter outdoor experience, Bennett County Park offers opportunities for hiking, trails, and fishing.

U.S. Highway 30, also known as the historic Lincoln Highway, crosses the northern part of Cedar County, while Interstate 80 runs through the southern portion. Together, these major highways provide convenient transportation and regional access through the county.

CategoryDetails
County NameCedar County
County SeatTipton
EtymologyNamed after the Cedar River, which runs through the county
Cities, Towns, and CommunitiesTipton, West Branch, Clarence, Durant, Mechanicsville, Stanwood, Bennett, Lowden, Rochester
Interstates and HighwaysInterstate 80, U.S. Highway 30, Iowa Highway 38, Iowa Highway 130
FIPS Code19-031
Total Area (Land and Water)582 square miles (land: 579 sq mi, water: 3 sq mi)
Adjacent Counties (and Direction)Jones County (North), Clinton County (Northeast), Scott County (Southeast), Muscatine County (South), Johnson County (West), Linn County (Northwest)
Time ZoneCentral Time Zone (CST)
StateIowa
Coordinates41.77°N, 91.13°W
Major LandmarksHerbert Hoover National Historic Site, Cedar Valley Park, Tipton Historic District
Population18,600
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