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Cities in Kenosha County, Wisconsin

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Kenosha County, located in southeastern Wisconsin along the shores of Lake Michigan, was established in 1850. The county’s name is derived from the Native American word “Kenozia,” meaning “place of the pike.” Historically, Kenosha County was a hub for manufacturing and trade, thanks to its strategic location along Lake Michigan and proximity to Chicago and Milwaukee. Today, the county is known for its blend of urban amenities, historic sites, and natural beauty. Kenosha County offers a mix of suburban living, industrial growth, and ample recreational opportunities, making it a vibrant and attractive region.

County Facts

  • Population: Approximately 170,000
  • County Seat: Kenosha
  • Number of Cities and Towns: 1 city, 7 towns

List of Cities and Towns in Kenosha County, Wisconsin

1. Kenosha

  • Year Founded: 1835
  • Population: Approximately 100,000
  • Population Density: 3,500 people per square mile
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 594 feet

Overview

Kenosha, the county seat of Kenosha County, is located on the western shore of Lake Michigan. The city was originally settled as a trading and shipping center, benefiting from its prime location along the lake. Kenosha is well-connected, with easy access via Interstate 94 and U.S. Highway 41, providing direct routes to both Milwaukee and Chicago. The city’s economy has evolved from heavy manufacturing to a more diversified base, including healthcare, retail, and education. Kenosha is home to several educational institutions, including Carthage College and the University of Wisconsin-Parkside. The city features a bustling downtown area, picturesque lakefront parks, and a rich cultural scene.

Things to Do

Kenosha offers a wide range of attractions and activities for residents and visitors. The Kenosha Public Museum and the Civil War Museum provide fascinating exhibits on the area’s history and cultural heritage. The Kenosha HarborMarket is a popular spot for fresh produce, crafts, and live entertainment. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy the miles of walking and biking trails along the Lake Michigan shoreline, including Simmons Island Beach, a great spot for swimming and picnicking. The city’s historic streetcar system offers a scenic tour of downtown and the lakefront. The Jelly Belly Visitor Center and Factory Tour is a family favorite. Kenosha’s vibrant arts scene includes galleries, theaters, and the annual Kenosha ArtWalk.

List of Communities in Kenosha County, Wisconsin

1. Pleasant Prairie

  • Year Founded: 1842
  • Population: Approximately 21,000
  • Population Density: Moderate
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 640 feet

Pleasant Prairie is a growing village known for its retail outlets, including the Pleasant Prairie Premium Outlets. It features several parks and is home to the RecPlex, the largest municipal recreational facility in the U.S.

2. Bristol

  • Year Founded: 1830s
  • Population: Approximately 5,000
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 700 feet

Bristol is a rural community known for its annual Bristol Renaissance Faire, which attracts visitors from across the Midwest. The village features scenic countryside and access to outdoor recreational areas.

3. Salem Lakes

  • Year Founded: 1840s
  • Population: Approximately 12,000
  • Population Density: Moderate
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 780 feet

Salem Lakes is a village that offers a mix of rural and suburban living. It is known for its numerous lakes, making it a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming. The area also features several nature preserves.

4. Somers

  • Year Founded: 1835
  • Population: Approximately 9,500
  • Population Density: Moderate
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 630 feet

Somers is a village that blends residential, agricultural, and commercial areas. It is home to the University of Wisconsin-Parkside and features parks, trails, and easy access to the Lake Michigan shoreline.

5. Twin Lakes

  • Year Founded: 1867
  • Population: Approximately 6,000
  • Population Density: Moderate
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 820 feet

Twin Lakes is a lakeside community known for its two major lakes, Lake Mary and Lake Elizabeth. It offers water sports, fishing, and the annual Aquanuts Water Ski Show, a popular local attraction.

6. Randall

  • Year Founded: 1840s
  • Population: Approximately 3,200
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 750 feet

Randall is a rural town known for its natural beauty and access to outdoor activities. It features parks, hiking trails, and a strong community atmosphere, with events like the Randall Town Picnic.

7. Paris

  • Year Founded: 1838
  • Population: Approximately 1,600
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 690 feet

Paris is a small, rural town with a strong agricultural base. It is known for its rolling farmland and family-owned farms, providing a peaceful countryside setting close to urban amenities.

8. Wheatland

  • Year Founded: 1840s
  • Population: Approximately 3,400
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 750 feet

Wheatland is a quiet town with a focus on agriculture and rural living. It offers a tranquil lifestyle, local farms, and access to natural areas, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts.

9. Brighton

  • Year Founded: 1848
  • Population: Approximately 1,500
  • Population Density: Sparse
  • Area Code: 262
  • Elevation: 710 feet

Brighton is a small, rural town known for its open landscapes and agricultural activities. It is a close-knit community with a peaceful setting, ideal for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle.

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