Cities and Towns in Mills County, Texas

Founded in 1887, Mills County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Mills County was formed from Brown County, Comanche County, Hamilton County and Lampasas County. The city of Goldthwaite is the county seat. With FIPS code of 333, Mills County has a population of 4,480 and area of 748 square miles (1,937 km²).

List of all cities in Mills County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Caradan, TX 76844 325
Goldthwaite, TX 76844 325
Mullin, TX 76864 325
Priddy, TX 76870 325
Star, TX 76880 325

Major Cities and Towns in Mills County, Texas

Mills County, located in Central Texas, is a scenic area with rich history and a rural charm. The county is known for its agricultural roots, especially in cotton and livestock, and its small towns that have preserved a strong sense of community. Below are the major cities and towns within Mills County.

Goldthwaite

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 1.5 square miles
  • Population: 1,800 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 76844
  • Latitude: 31.4781° N
  • Longitude: 98.5581° W

City Location and History

Goldthwaite, the county seat of Mills County, is located in the central part of the county, about 90 miles northwest of Austin. The town was founded in the late 1800s and named after a prominent early settler, W.D. Goldthwaite. Goldthwaite grew quickly after it was established as a key stop along the railroad in the late 19th century. The town became an important center for shipping agricultural goods, such as cotton, to larger markets.

In the early 20th century, Goldthwaite’s economy expanded with the discovery of oil nearby, leading to a brief period of oil exploration. However, agriculture remained the backbone of the local economy, and Goldthwaite became known for its cotton, grain, and cattle production. The town has remained relatively small over the years, but it continues to be a hub for Mills County, serving as the administrative, commercial, and cultural center of the region. Goldthwaite’s history is reflected in its buildings and the community’s continued connection to farming and ranching.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Goldthwaite is served by the Goldthwaite Independent School District, which includes Goldthwaite High School, Goldthwaite Junior High, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs, as well as extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and agricultural programs that reflect the community’s rural roots. The town is proud of its close-knit school environment and community involvement.

Key landmarks in Goldthwaite include the historic Mills County Courthouse, which was built in the early 1900s and remains a symbol of the town’s history. The Goldthwaite City Park is a popular destination for families, offering sports facilities, picnic areas, and playgrounds. The Mills County Museum offers visitors a glimpse into the region’s past, showcasing local artifacts, photographs, and exhibits on the area’s agricultural history. Additionally, the Colorado River, which flows through Goldthwaite, provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities, contributing to the town’s appeal to both residents and tourists.

Priddy

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.7 square miles
  • Population: 200 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 76870
  • Latitude: 31.5871° N
  • Longitude: 98.6177° W

City Location and History

Priddy is a small town located in the western part of Mills County, approximately 20 miles southwest of Goldthwaite. The town was established in the late 1800s and named after an early settler, William Priddy. Like many towns in Central Texas, Priddy’s growth was initially spurred by agriculture, with settlers cultivating cotton, corn, and cattle. The town became known for its role in the cattle industry and its position as a key stop along local trade routes.

In the early 20th century, Priddy was primarily an agricultural community, but it saw modest growth due to its proximity to Goldthwaite and larger cities in the region. The town did not experience the industrial boom seen in some other parts of Texas, but it has remained a quiet rural community with deep ties to farming and ranching. Today, Priddy remains small but vibrant, with a strong sense of community and a focus on preserving its agricultural heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Priddy is served by the Priddy Independent School District, which includes Priddy High School and Priddy Elementary School. Despite its small size, the district is known for its strong academic programs and a close connection to the community. Priddy ISD emphasizes sports and agricultural education, providing students with opportunities to participate in FFA (Future Farmers of America) programs, as well as sports teams and other extracurricular activities.

The town is home to the Priddy Community Center, which hosts local events such as festivals, family gatherings, and community meetings. The surrounding landscape is defined by the wide-open spaces of Central Texas, with many locals participating in ranching and farming activities. There are no large formal landmarks in Priddy, but the town’s rural charm is reflected in its small-town atmosphere and its residents’ close-knit relationships. Outdoor activities such as hiking and fishing can be enjoyed in the nearby natural areas and lakes.

Mullin

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.3 square miles
  • Population: 200 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 76864
  • Latitude: 31.5383° N
  • Longitude: 98.5950° W

City Location and History

Mullin is a tiny town located in the northeastern part of Mills County, about 15 miles east of Goldthwaite. It was established in the late 1800s, during a time of rapid settlement in Central Texas. The town was named after a local rancher, and like many other towns in the area, it grew up around the needs of farmers and ranchers. Mullin’s economy was historically based on agriculture, with cotton and livestock serving as the primary industries.

Mullin experienced a brief period of growth after the construction of the railroad in the late 19th century, but it never grew to the size of other towns in the region. The town remained a small agricultural community throughout the 20th century, and today it has a population of just a few hundred people. Despite its small size, Mullin is a key part of Mills County, with strong ties to the region’s ranching heritage and a quiet rural lifestyle that continues to attract people seeking a slower pace of life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Mullin is part of the Mullin Independent School District, which includes Mullin High School and Mullin Elementary School. The district serves the small town and surrounding rural areas, offering students a comprehensive education with opportunities for involvement in sports, FFA, and other community programs. Given the small population, the schools are highly valued in the community, and there is a strong emphasis on providing a personalized learning environment.

Mullin’s landmarks are centered around its rural character and agricultural roots. The town does not have large formal structures or tourist attractions, but it is known for its scenic landscapes, which are a hallmark of the Central Texas Hill Country. The surrounding area is ideal for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking. The Mullin Community Center serves as a venue for local gatherings, and the town’s rural charm remains its biggest draw for those looking for a quiet, small-town lifestyle.