Imlay City, located at the intersection I-69 and M-53 (the "Gateway to the Thumb" area of Michigan), was named after William Imlay, an eastern seaboard businessman who moved to the area in 1828. The village was settled in 1870 when the construction of the Port Huron and Lake Michigan Railway was completed. The chief engineer of the railroad, Charles Palmer, selected Imlay City as a likely produce market between Lapeer and Capac. He then purchased 240 acres of land which he surveyed and platted. Since the township was called Imlay, he decided to name this site Imlay City.

The city celebrated its 100th anniversary in 1970. Also in that year a change was made from a village to a home rule city form of government. Today, this eastern Lapeer County community is home to several farming operations, the Eastern Michigan Fair, commercial facilities and industries. The city is continuing to grow and prosper as many people move into the area. The area surrounding Imlay City is rich with agricultural history. Many businesses and industries have seen the potential for this area and have located here. Imlay City has retained the best features of a small town, with an excellent educational system and a friendliness that has remained constant through the years.

Imlay City’s attitude toward growth is both progressive and flexible, reflected in its real estate, and personal property and business tax rates. It is also reflected in its policies, programs, and municipal services.