Cerro Gordo County, Iowa
Cerro Gordo County is located in north-central Iowa and is home to Clear Lake, a popular summer destination offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and lakeside recreation. Mason City, the county seat and largest community, serves as a major center for the area.
Music enthusiasts may know Mason City as the birthplace of Meredith Willson, the renowned composer and creator of The Music Man. The city is also associated with the nickname “River City,” reflecting its location along the Winnebago River.
Agriculture remains an important part of the local economy, with rolling farmland surrounding the county’s towns and communities. Alongside its agricultural roots, Cerro Gordo County offers a mix of culture, history, and outdoor recreation, providing a variety of experiences for residents and visitors.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Cerro Gordo County |
| County Seat | Mason City |
| Etymology | Named after the Battle of Cerro Gordo in the Mexican-American War |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Mason City, Clear Lake, Rockwell, Thornton, Ventura, Plymouth, Meservey, Dougherty |
| Interstates and Highways | Interstate 35, U.S. Highway 18, U.S. Highway 65, Iowa Highway 122 |
| FIPS Code | 19-033 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 575 square miles (land: 568 sq mi, water: 7 sq mi) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Worth County (North), Mitchell County (Northeast), Floyd County (East), Franklin County (South), Hancock County (West) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Iowa |
| Coordinates | 43.08°N, 93.26°W |
| Major Landmarks | Clear Lake, Surf Ballroom, Music Man Square, Lime Creek Nature Center, Central Gardens of North Iowa |
| Population | 41,200 |
