Cities and Towns in Aransas County, Texas

Founded in 1871, Aransas County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Aransas County was formed from Refugio County. The city of Rockport is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Aransas County has a population of 24,510 and area of 252 square miles (653 km²).

List of all cities in Aransas County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Copano Village, TX 78382 361
Estes, TX 78382 361
Fulton, TX 78358 361
Fulton Beach, TX 78358 361
Lamar, TX 78382 361
Rockport, TX 78381 361
78382 361

Rockport

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 18.5 square miles
  • Population: 10,759 (as of 2020)
  • ZIP Codes: 78381, 78382
  • Latitude and Longitude: 28.0206° N, 97.0544° W

Location and History

Rockport, the county seat of Aransas County, is situated on the Live Oak Peninsula, bordered by Aransas Bay to the east and Copano Bay to the west. Established in 1867, the city was named for the rocky ledge underlying its shore. Rockport’s early economy was driven by the cattle industry, with its port serving as a vital shipping point for livestock. The late 19th century saw the rise of the fishing and seafood processing industries, further bolstering the local economy. Over time, Rockport developed into a popular tourist destination, renowned for its coastal charm, art galleries, and maritime heritage. The city’s rich history is reflected in its well-preserved Victorian architecture and longstanding traditions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rockport is served by the Rockport-Fulton Independent School District, which includes Rockport-Fulton High School, recognized for its academic and extracurricular programs. Notable landmarks in the city include the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, an 1870s Second Empire-style home offering insights into the region’s past. The Texas Maritime Museum provides exhibits on the state’s maritime history, while the Rockport Center for the Arts showcases works by local and regional artists. Additionally, Rockport Beach, Texas’s first Blue Wave Beach, is celebrated for its clean sands and family-friendly amenities. The city’s vibrant cultural scene is further highlighted by annual events such as the Rockport Art Festival and the Oysterfest, drawing visitors from across the state.

Fulton

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 5.0 square miles
  • Population: 1,505 (as of 2020)
  • ZIP Code: 78358
  • Latitude and Longitude: 28.0592° N, 97.0383° W

Location and History

Fulton is located just north of Rockport along the western shore of Aransas Bay. The town was established in 1866 and named after George Ware Fulton, a prominent rancher and businessman who played a significant role in the area’s development. Fulton’s early economy centered around the shipping and processing of cattle, facilitated by its strategic coastal location. The town also became known for its boat-building industry, contributing to its maritime heritage. Over the years, Fulton has maintained its small-town charm while embracing tourism, with its picturesque harbor and seafood restaurants attracting visitors. The town’s history is celebrated through various festivals and preserved historic sites.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Students in Fulton attend schools within the Rockport-Fulton Independent School District, including Rockport-Fulton High School. A prominent landmark in Fulton is the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, an ornate 19th-century residence that offers guided tours and educational programs. The town’s harbor area features the Fulton Fishing Pier, popular among anglers and sightseers. Fulton is also known for hosting the annual Fulton Oysterfest, a celebration of the local oyster industry featuring live entertainment, carnival rides, and culinary delights. The event reflects the town’s deep-rooted connection to the seafood industry and its community spirit.

Aransas Pass

Overview

  • Area: Partially within Aransas County; total area approximately 51.8 square miles
  • Population: 8,011 (as of 2020)
  • ZIP Codes: 78335, 78336
  • Latitude and Longitude: 27.9098° N, 97.1456° W

Location and History

Aransas Pass spans portions of Aransas, San Patricio, and Nueces counties, with its Aransas County section located in the southwestern part of the county. The city was founded in the late 19th century, with its name derived from the nearby Aransas Pass, a natural channel to the Gulf of Mexico. The development of the railroad and the establishment of a deep-water port in the early 20th century spurred economic growth, positioning Aransas Pass as a key maritime and commercial center. The city’s economy has historically been linked to fishing, shrimping, and oil industries. In recent decades, Aransas Pass has diversified its economic base, with tourism playing an increasingly important role, thanks to its coastal location and access to recreational activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The Aransas Pass Independent School District serves the city’s educational needs, including Aransas Pass High School, which offers various academic and athletic programs. Notable landmarks include Conn Brown Harbor, a focal point for commercial and recreational boating activities. The city hosts the annual Shrimporee, one of Texas’s largest shrimp festivals, celebrating the local shrimping industry with live music, food vendors, and family-friendly activities. Aransas Pass’s proximity to Redfish Bay and the Gulf of Mexico makes it a popular destination for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation, contributing to its appeal as a coastal community.