Cities and Towns in Cameron County, Texas

Founded in 1848, Cameron County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Cameron County was formed from Nueces County and lands ceded by Mexico. The city of Brownsville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 61, Cameron County has a population of 423,029 and area of 906 square miles (2,347 km²).

List of all cities in Cameron County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Acacia Lake, TX 78520 956
Adams Gardens, TX 78550 956
Arroyo, TX 78550 956
Avondale, TX 78550 956
Bahia Mar, TX 78578 956
Bayview, TX 78566 956
Bluetown, TX 78592 956
Boca Chica, TX 78520 956
Brownsville, TX 78520 956
78521 956
78522 956
78523 956
78526 956
Bville, TX 78520 956
Carricitos, TX 78586 956
Colaboz, TX 78586 956
Combes, TX 78535 956
Comby, TX 78535 956
El Jardin, TX 78520 956
Harlingen, TX 78550 956
78551 956
78552 956
78553 956
HGN, TX 78550 956
Indian Lake, TX 78566 956
Isabel, TX 78578 956
Kayare, TX 78550 956
Keller Corner, TX 78520 956
Kennedy Shores, TX 78520 956
La Feria, TX 78559 956
La Paloma, TX 78586 956
Lafkin, TX 78559 956
Laguna Heights, TX 78578 956
Laguna Vista, TX 78578 956
Landrum, TX 78586 956
Las Rusias, TX 78586 956
Laureles, TX 78586 956
Los Cuates, TX 78586 956
Los Fresnos, TX 78566 956
Los Indios, TX 78567 956
Lozano, TX 78568 956
Olmito, TX 78575 956
Palm Village, TX 78520 956
Palo Alto Battlefield Nation, TX 78520 956
Point Isabel, TX 78578 956
Port Isabel, TX 78578 956
78597 956
Portway Acres, TX 78520 956
Primera, TX 78550 956
Ranchito, TX 78586 956
Rancho Viejo, TX 78575 956
Rangerville, TX 78586 956
Rio Hondo, TX 78583 956
Rogerslacy, TX 78593 956
San Benito, TX 78586 956
Santa Maria, TX 78592 956
Santa Rosa, TX 78593 956
South Padre Island, TX 78597 956
Stuart Place, TX 78550 956
Villa Cavazos, TX 78520 956
Villa Nueva, TX 78520 956
Yescas, TX 78586 956

Major Cities and Towns in Cameron County, Texas

Brownsville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

  • Area: 147.3 square miles
  • Population: 185,000+
  • Zip Codes: 78520, 78521, 78522, 78523, 78526
  • Latitude: 25.9017° N
  • Longitude: 97.4975° W

Location and History:

Brownsville is the county seat of Cameron County and is located in the southeastern tip of Texas, directly on the Rio Grande river, bordering Matamoros, Mexico. The city has a long history, dating back to 1848 when it was established as a military post during the Mexican-American War. Originally called Fort Brown, the fort’s location near the Rio Grande was strategic for U.S. military operations, and the area became a central point in the development of Texas. Brownsville’s location made it a key center for trade and commerce, especially during the 19th century when it became an important gateway for international trade with Mexico. The city was officially incorporated in 1853. Over the years, Brownsville has grown into a major cultural and economic hub in the Rio Grande Valley, with a diversified economy based on trade, manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. It is also an important center for cross-border cultural exchange, with strong ties to Mexico and a significant Hispanic population that shapes the city’s cultural identity.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Brownsville is served by the Brownsville Independent School District (ISD), which operates numerous schools including Brownsville Early College High School, Porter High School, and Vela High School. The city also has several private institutions and higher education facilities such as Texas Southmost College and University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV). Notable landmarks in Brownsville include the Historic Brownsville Museum, which showcases the city’s history from the Mexican-American War to its role in modern trade. The Gladys Porter Zoo is a major attraction, featuring a wide variety of wildlife and attracting tourists from across the region. Another key site is the Sabalo Memorial, which commemorates the importance of the city’s location along the Rio Grande. The Matamoros Port of Entry, directly across the border, serves as a major international crossing point, vital for trade and travel between the U.S. and Mexico. The city’s rich history and proximity to the international border make it an important cultural and economic center in South Texas.

Harlingen

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

  • Area: 40.6 square miles
  • Population: 65,000+
  • Zip Codes: 78550, 78551, 78552
  • Latitude: 26.1900° N
  • Longitude: 97.6963° W

Location and History:

Harlingen is a city located in the central part of Cameron County, Texas, approximately 30 miles from the Gulf of Mexico. The city’s origins trace back to the early 20th century, when it was founded by George P. Harlingen in 1904, who named the town after his hometown in the Netherlands. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railway in 1904 played a crucial role in Harlingen’s growth, making it an important hub for agriculture and trade in the region. By the 1920s, Harlingen had developed into one of the major cotton-growing areas of Texas, benefiting from the irrigation systems made possible by the Rio Grande. The city also became an aviation hub during World War II, with the establishment of a U.S. Army Air Corps training base, which led to a post-war economic boom. Today, Harlingen has diversified its economy, with strengths in agriculture, healthcare, and retail, while maintaining a connection to its historical roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Harlingen is served by the Harlingen Consolidated Independent School District (ISD), with schools such as Harlingen High School, Harlingen South High School, and Harlingen School of Health Professions. The city also has the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley – Harlingen Campus. Key landmarks in Harlingen include the Iwo Jima Memorial, commemorating the iconic World War II battle, and the Harlingen Arts and Heritage Museum, which preserves and celebrates the cultural heritage of the region. The Valley International Airport is another significant feature, providing access to the region for tourists and business travelers. The Lon C. Hill Park is a popular spot for recreation, with walking trails, picnic areas, and scenic views. The Harlingen Nature Center offers visitors a chance to explore the local wildlife and ecosystems in the area. With its rich history and variety of attractions, Harlingen stands as a central urban area in Cameron County, blending historical charm with modern amenities.

San Benito

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:

  • Area: 11.9 square miles
  • Population: 25,000+
  • Zip Codes: 78586
  • Latitude: 26.1560° N
  • Longitude: 97.6464° W

Location and History:

San Benito is located in the Rio Grande Valley of South Texas, approximately 10 miles from Brownsville and the U.S.-Mexico border. Originally settled in the late 19th century, the city was formally established in 1904, during a period of rapid agricultural development in the region. San Benito’s economy has historically revolved around agriculture, particularly the cultivation of citrus fruits, vegetables, and cotton, thanks to the region’s fertile soil and access to irrigation from the Rio Grande. The town earned the nickname “The Valley’s Gateway” due to its strategic location along trade routes and proximity to the border. Over time, San Benito developed into a small city with a population of around 25,000, serving as a key center for the surrounding agricultural communities. The town has maintained its small-town charm while also experiencing growth, particularly in the 20th century, when it began to attract businesses, retail, and services catering to both local residents and the broader region.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

San Benito is served by the San Benito Consolidated Independent School District (CISD), with schools including San Benito High School, Berta Cabaza Middle School, and Marty Tierra Elementary School. The district is known for its strong focus on academics, arts, and athletics. Major landmarks in San Benito include the San Benito History Museum, which preserves the town’s agricultural roots and its role in the development of the Rio Grande Valley. The Resaca de la Palma Battlefield, located just outside the city, commemorates a significant battle during the Mexican-American War. Another popular site is the San Benito Cultural Heritage Center, which hosts various cultural events and exhibits related to the community’s Mexican-American heritage. The San Benito Wildlife Refuge offers birdwatching and outdoor activities, drawing nature enthusiasts. The annual San Benito Rodeo is a highlight for locals, celebrating the town’s western heritage with rodeo events, music, and festivities. With a combination of historical, cultural, and recreational offerings, San Benito serves as a vital hub for the region’s community life.