Cities and Towns in Bradford County, Florida
Founded in 1858, Bradford County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Bradford County was formed from Columbia, named New River until 1861. The city of Starke is the county seat. With FIPS code of 7, Bradford County has a population of 28,540 and area of 293 square miles (759 km²).
List of all cities in Bradford County, FL alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Brooker, FL | 32622 | 352 |
Graham, FL | 32042 | 352 |
Hampton, FL | 32044 | 904 |
Kingsley Lake, FL | 32091 | 904 |
Kngsly Lake, FL | 32091 | 904 |
Lawtey, FL | 32058 | 904 |
Starke, FL | 32091 | 904 |
Major Cities and Towns in Bradford County, Florida
Starke
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 7.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,400 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 32091
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.9446° N, 82.1099° W
Location and History
Starke is the county seat of Bradford County, located in the northeastern part of Florida. The city was founded in the mid-19th century, with its growth closely tied to the development of the railroad, which made Starke a key transportation hub for the region. Named after Thomas Starke, a landowner who played a significant role in the town’s early development, Starke quickly grew into a center for agriculture and trade. The city’s historic downtown still features several well-preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, reflecting its rich heritage. Today, Starke is a small but vibrant community known for its strong sense of tradition and its role as the administrative and commercial heart of Bradford County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Starke is home to Bradford High School, which serves the educational needs of the local population, along with Bradford Middle School and Southside Elementary School. The city is also known for its proximity to the Florida State Prison, one of the largest correctional facilities in the state, which has a significant economic impact on the area. Major landmarks in Starke include the historic Bradford County Courthouse, built in 1902, and the Camp Blanding Museum, which commemorates the history of the military training base located nearby. The annual Bradford County Strawberry Festival is a popular event that celebrates the region’s agricultural roots. Starke’s blend of history, community, and tradition makes it a central part of Bradford County’s identity.
Hampton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 32044
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.8647° N, 82.1393° W
Location and History
Hampton is a small town located in the southeastern part of Bradford County. The town was established in the late 19th century, primarily as a result of the expansion of the railroad, which brought new opportunities for commerce and settlement to the area. Hampton was named after Wade Hampton III, a Confederate general and politician who later became the governor of South Carolina. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly cotton and timber, which were shipped via the railroad to larger markets. Hampton remains a small, rural community with a strong connection to its agricultural heritage and a quiet, small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hampton is served by Hampton Elementary School, which provides education for young students in the town and surrounding areas. While Hampton is a small community, it is known for its scenic surroundings and rural charm. The town’s proximity to larger cities like Starke and Gainesville allows residents to enjoy a peaceful lifestyle while still having access to urban amenities. One of the town’s key landmarks is the historic Hampton Depot, a reminder of the town’s railroad past. Additionally, the nearby Santa Fe Lake offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. Hampton’s blend of rural tranquility and historical significance makes it a unique part of Bradford County.
Lawtey
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 32058
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.0452° N, 82.0718° W
Location and History
Lawtey is a small town located in the northern part of Bradford County, along U.S. Route 301. The town was established in the late 19th century and was named after Lawrence Lawtey, an early settler who played a key role in the area’s development. Like many towns in the region, Lawtey’s growth was closely tied to the expansion of the railroad, which brought new residents and businesses to the area. The town has maintained its small size and rural character over the years, with a strong focus on community and tradition. Lawtey’s history is deeply rooted in agriculture, with the surrounding farmland producing crops like strawberries, peanuts, and timber.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lawtey is served by Lawtey Elementary School, which provides education for the town’s young students. Despite its small size, Lawtey is known for its community spirit and rural charm. The town’s main landmark is its historic downtown area, which includes several buildings from the early 20th century, reflecting its long history as a farming community. Lawtey’s proximity to the larger cities of Starke and Jacksonville allows residents to enjoy a quiet, rural lifestyle while still having access to urban amenities. The town is also known for its involvement in local events and festivals, such as the Bradford County Fair, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage. Lawtey’s strong sense of community and connection to its agricultural roots make it an important part of Bradford County.
Brooker
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 325 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 32622
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.8922° N, 82.3321° W
Location and History
Brooker is a small town located in the southwestern part of Bradford County. The town was established in the late 19th century and has a history closely tied to agriculture, particularly in the production of tobacco, cotton, and other crops. Brooker’s name is believed to be derived from a local family that played a significant role in the town’s early development. The town’s growth was modest, with its economy remaining largely agricultural throughout the 20th century. Today, Brooker remains a small, rural community with a strong focus on farming and a close-knit population.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brooker is served by Brooker Elementary School, which provides education for the town’s young students. The town’s landmarks include the historic Brooker Baptist Church, which has been a focal point of the community for over a century. Brooker’s location near the Santa Fe River provides residents with opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. The town’s agricultural heritage is celebrated through local events and festivals that highlight the importance of farming to the community. Brooker’s combination of rural charm, strong community ties, and connection to agriculture makes it a unique and valuable part of Bradford County.