Cities and Towns in Boyd County, Kentucky
Founded in 1860, Boyd County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Boyd County was formed from Greenup County, Carter County and Lawrence County. The city of Catlettsburg is the county seat. With FIPS code of 19, Boyd County has a population of 47,899 and area of 160 square miles (414 km²).
List of all cities in Boyd County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ashland, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| 41102 | 606 | |
| 41105 | 606 | |
| 41114 | 606 | |
| Ashland Oil Inc, KY | 41114 | 606 |
| Bellefonte, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Catlettsburg, KY | 41129 | 606 |
| Coalton, KY | 41168 | 606 |
| Ironville, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Kilgore, KY | 41168 | 606 |
| Meads, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Millseat, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Naples, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| 41105 | 606 | |
| Princess, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Rockdale, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Rush, KY | 41168 | 606 |
| Summitt, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| 41102 | 606 | |
| 41105 | 606 | |
| West Fairview, KY | 41101 | 606 |
| Westwood, KY | 41101 | 606 |
Major Cities and Towns in Boyd County, Kentucky
Ashland
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 10.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 20,300 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 41101, 41102, 41105
- Latitude: 38.4784° N
- Longitude: 82.6477° W
Location and History
Ashland is the largest city and county seat of Boyd County, located along the southern banks of the Ohio River in northeastern Kentucky. Founded in 1854, the city grew rapidly as a major industrial and transportation hub, thanks to its strategic location along the river and its proximity to coal fields. Ashland’s early economy was heavily driven by the steel industry, with the Armco Steel Company (now AK Steel) playing a major role in the city’s growth. Throughout the 20th century, Ashland evolved into a regional center for business and healthcare, balancing its industrial roots with modern development. The city also played a key role in river trade, and its riverfront continues to be a symbol of its historical importance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ashland is served by the Ashland Independent School District, which includes Paul G. Blazer High School and Ashland Middle School. Major landmarks in the city include the Paramount Arts Center, a historic 1930s Art Deco theater that hosts concerts, performances, and community events. Central Park, a 47-acre green space, provides outdoor recreational activities and is home to several annual festivals. Ashland’s riverfront features a walking trail and overlooks the Ohio River, offering scenic views and opportunities for riverfront activities. The Highlands Museum & Discovery Center is another prominent site, offering exhibits on local history and hands-on science exhibits for children.
Catlettsburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,700 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 41129
- Latitude: 38.4084° N
- Longitude: 82.6007° W
Location and History
Catlettsburg is located at the confluence of the Big Sandy River and the Ohio River in southeastern Boyd County, near the Kentucky-West Virginia border. It was founded in 1798 by settlers from Virginia and named after the Catlett family, one of the town’s earliest landowners. In the 19th century, Catlettsburg thrived as a river port, serving as a major shipping point for timber and coal from the Appalachian Mountains. The town’s riverside location made it a hub for steamboat traffic, and its importance grew with the arrival of the Chesapeake and Ohio Railway. Though the town’s prominence as a river port has declined, Catlettsburg maintains its historical significance within the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Catlettsburg is part of the Boyd County Public Schools system, with schools like Boyd County High School serving the area. The town’s historical landmarks include the Catlett House, an antebellum mansion that reflects the architectural style of the period, and the Boyd County Courthouse, built in 1931, which is a key part of the town’s government and civic life. The nearby Big Sandy Riverfront Park offers recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing. Catlettsburg’s location along two major rivers provides picturesque views and a sense of its rich maritime history, while the town’s small size offers a quiet, close-knit community feel.
Westwood
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 2.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,900 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 41102
- Latitude: 38.4631° N
- Longitude: 82.6811° W
Location and History
Westwood is a residential community in Boyd County, located just west of Ashland. Although Westwood is not an incorporated city, it functions as a census-designated place (CDP) and is closely tied to the larger Ashland metropolitan area. The community grew in the mid-20th century as part of the suburban expansion of Ashland, primarily offering housing for workers employed in nearby industrial facilities. Westwood’s proximity to Ashland and its more suburban, residential character have made it an attractive place for families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle while still being close to the amenities of a larger city.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Westwood is served by the Fairview Independent School District, which includes Fairview High School and Fairview Elementary School. While Westwood is largely a residential area, it has access to several nearby landmarks in Ashland, such as Central Park and the Paramount Arts Center. The nearby Ashland Town Center, a regional shopping mall, serves as a commercial hub for the area’s residents. Additionally, the community enjoys proximity to several parks and green spaces that are ideal for outdoor activities. Westwood’s family-friendly atmosphere and suburban lifestyle make it a popular choice for those commuting to Ashland or working in the surrounding region.
Summit
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 3.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,300 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 41102
- Latitude: 38.4189° N
- Longitude: 82.7009° W
Location and History
Summit is a suburban community located southwest of Ashland in Boyd County. Like Westwood, Summit is a census-designated place (CDP) and is closely associated with the growth of the Ashland metropolitan area. Summit’s development surged in the post-World War II era as Ashland’s industrial base expanded, and more housing was needed for workers. The area is characterized by its residential neighborhoods, which offer a peaceful environment with easy access to Ashland’s commercial and industrial districts. Summit is also close to the Kentucky-Ohio border, making it convenient for residents who commute to jobs in both states.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Summit is served by the Boyd County Public Schools, with schools such as Boyd County High School and Summit Elementary School located in the area. Although primarily a residential community, Summit benefits from its proximity to attractions in nearby Ashland, including Central Park and the Highlands Museum & Discovery Center. Summit’s close access to U.S. Route 60 and I-64 provides easy connections to other parts of the region, making it a desirable location for those working in Ashland, Huntington, West Virginia, or other nearby cities. Additionally, Summit is home to several churches and local businesses, which contribute to the community’s suburban character.
Cannonsburg
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 4.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 850 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 41102
- Latitude: 38.3772° N
- Longitude: 82.7335° W
Location and History
Cannonsburg is a small unincorporated community located in the southwestern part of Boyd County, near the border with Greenup County. The community developed in the 19th century and was named after the Cannon family, early settlers in the region. Cannonsburg was primarily an agricultural area, though it later grew as the coal and railroad industries expanded in the region. Today, Cannonsburg remains a quiet, rural community with close ties to nearby Ashland. Its location along U.S. Route 60 has helped it maintain a connection to the economic and cultural life of the broader Boyd County area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cannonsburg is served by Boyd County Public Schools, including Cannonsburg Elementary School. Although small, Cannonsburg is known for its community spirit and rural charm. A local landmark is the Cannonsburg Church of Christ, which has been a religious and community center for generations. The area is also home to several farms and green spaces, reflecting its agricultural heritage. Cannonsburg’s rural character, combined with its proximity to Ashland and other larger towns, makes it an attractive location for those seeking a quieter lifestyle within reach of urban amenities. Nearby, Grayson Lake State Park offers outdoor activities such as boating, hiking, and fishing.
