Cities and Towns in Boone County, Missouri

Founded in 1820, Boone County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Boone County was formed from Howard County. The city of Columbia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 19, Boone County has a population of 185,840 and area of 685 square miles (1,774 km²).

List of all cities in Boone County, MO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Ashland, MO 65010 573
Centralia, MO 65240 573
Columbia, MO 65201 573
65202 573
65203 573
65205 573
65211 573
65212 573
65215 573
65216 573
65217 573
65218 573
65299 573
Columbia College, MO 65216 573
Deer Park, MO 65201 573
Easley, MO 65203 573
Elkhurst, MO 65201 573
Hallsville, MO 65255 573
Harg, MO 65201 573
Harrisburg, MO 65256 573
Hartsburg, MO 65039 573
Hinton, MO 65202 573
Huntsdale, MO 65203 573
Lindbergh, MO 65202 573
McBaine, MO 65203 573
Mid Missouri P&DF, MO 65299 573
Midway, MO 65202 573
Murry, MO 65202 573
Pierpont, MO 65201 573
Prathersville, MO 65202 573
Riggs, MO 65284 573
Rocheport, MO 65279 573
Rowena, MO 65240 573
Sapp, MO 65203 573
Shaw, MO 65202 573
Shelter Insurance, MO 65218 573
State Farm Ins, MO 65217 573
Stephens, MO 65202 573
Stephens College, MO 65215 573
Sturgeon, MO 65284 573
Umc Hospital Clinics, MO 65212 573
University of Missouri, MO 65211 573
Wilton, MO 65039 573
Woodlandville, MO 65256 573
Woodlinville, MO 65279 573

Major Cities and Towns in Boone County, Missouri

Columbia

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 68.05 square miles
  • Population: About 126,000 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 65201, 65202, 65203, 65211
  • Latitude: 38.9517° N
  • Longitude: -92.3341° W

Location and History

Columbia, the county seat and largest city in Boone County, is centrally located in Missouri and serves as a major educational, cultural, and economic hub. Founded in 1821, Columbia’s growth was largely driven by the establishment of the University of Missouri in 1839, the first public university west of the Mississippi River. The city expanded quickly, benefiting from its position as a transportation crossroads and its strong educational institutions, including Stephens College and Columbia College. Columbia is known for its progressive values, diverse cultural scene, and strong emphasis on education and healthcare. Over the years, it has attracted residents for its vibrant arts scene, academic opportunities, and high quality of life.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Columbia is home to the University of Missouri, which anchors the city’s educational landscape along with Columbia Public Schools, the state’s fifth-largest school district. Major landmarks include the Francis Quadrangle and the iconic columns on the University of Missouri campus, symbolizing the city’s academic heritage. The Mizzou Botanic Garden and Rock Bridge Memorial State Park offer green spaces for recreation, while the Museum of Art and Archaeology and the historic downtown district provide cultural attractions. The city hosts events like the True/False Film Festival and Roots N Blues Festival, attracting visitors and celebrating Columbia’s artistic and musical heritage.

Ashland

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 2.89 square miles
  • Population: Around 4,000 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 65010
  • Latitude: 38.7745° N
  • Longitude: -92.2571° W

Location and History

Ashland is located in southern Boone County, positioned between Columbia and Jefferson City. Established in the mid-19th century, Ashland originally grew as a small farming community that provided resources for surrounding rural areas. Named after Henry Clay’s Kentucky estate, Ashland has evolved over the years from an agricultural town to a growing suburb, driven by its convenient location along major highways that connect it to nearby urban centers. The town has experienced significant residential and commercial development in recent years, attracting new residents who enjoy its small-town feel and proximity to Columbia’s amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ashland is part of the Southern Boone County R-I School District, which includes Southern Boone High School, known for its academic programs and sports teams. Landmarks in Ashland include Ashland City Park, a popular spot for family gatherings, sports, and outdoor events. The Ashland Fall Festival, an annual event celebrating local culture and crafts, draws community members together. Nearby conservation areas, such as the Three Creeks Conservation Area, offer hiking, camping, and opportunities to explore Missouri’s natural beauty. Ashland’s growing infrastructure and community events reflect its blend of small-town charm and suburban convenience.

Centralia

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 2.78 square miles
  • Population: About 4,100 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 65240
  • Latitude: 39.2131° N
  • Longitude: -92.1343° W

Location and History

Centralia is situated in northern Boone County and was founded in 1857 as a railroad town. Its strategic location on the North Missouri Railroad line allowed Centralia to grow rapidly as an agricultural trade center. During the Civil War, the town was the site of the infamous Centralia Massacre in 1864, where Confederate guerrillas attacked a Union troop train, marking a significant and tragic event in Missouri’s history. After the war, Centralia rebuilt and developed as a community focused on farming and small businesses, maintaining its rural atmosphere and historical significance.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Centralia is served by the Centralia R-VI School District, which includes Centralia High School, known for its academic programs and strong community involvement. Major landmarks include the Centralia Battlefield, a historic site commemorating the Civil War massacre, and the Centralia Historical Society Museum, which preserves artifacts and records from the town’s early days. The town also celebrates Anchor Festival each spring, featuring rides, parades, and local arts. Centralia’s parks, such as City Park, provide recreational facilities, and nearby hunting and fishing areas attract outdoor enthusiasts.

Hallsville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 1.25 square miles
  • Population: Around 1,600 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 65255
  • Latitude: 39.1169° N
  • Longitude: -92.2213° W

Location and History

Hallsville is located northeast of Columbia in Boone County, known for its small-town charm and close-knit community atmosphere. The town was established in the late 19th century and grew as a rural farming village. While it remained small, Hallsville’s proximity to Columbia has made it an attractive location for those seeking a quieter lifestyle within commuting distance of the city. The town retains its agricultural roots, with much of the surrounding area dedicated to farming, while experiencing steady residential growth over the past few decades.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hallsville is served by the Hallsville R-IV School District, which includes Hallsville High School, recognized for its active sports programs and community support. Landmarks in Hallsville include the historic downtown area and Hallsville City Park, where locals gather for sports, playground activities, and annual community events like the Hallsville BBQ Contest. The town also hosts an annual Fall Festival, where residents celebrate with games, food, and music, highlighting Hallsville’s friendly atmosphere and community spirit. Local farms and nearby conservation areas provide residents with opportunities to enjoy Missouri’s natural landscape.

Rocheport

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 0.25 square miles
  • Population: Around 250 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 65279
  • Latitude: 38.9778° N
  • Longitude: -92.5605° W

Location and History

Rocheport is a historic town located along the Missouri River in western Boone County. Established in 1825, Rocheport became a key trading port and stop along the Santa Fe Trail, benefiting from river traffic and trade with travelers heading west. Its charming 19th-century buildings and cobblestone streets reflect Rocheport’s history as a river town. The arrival of the Katy Railroad in the 1890s brought further prosperity, but as rail and river traffic declined, Rocheport transitioned into a quiet, picturesque village. Today, it is a popular destination for history enthusiasts and tourists exploring the Katy Trail.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Rocheport is part of the Columbia Public Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby communities. Key landmarks include the Katy Trail State Park, which passes through the town and offers scenic views along the Missouri River, attracting cyclists and hikers. The Rocheport Historic District preserves many original buildings, including old storefronts and the Rocheport General Store. The town is also home to Les Bourgeois Vineyards, a winery with stunning views of the river valley. Rocheport hosts seasonal events such as the Rocheport Wine Stroll, which celebrates local wine and community spirit, highlighting the town’s rich heritage and scenic appeal.