Cities and Towns in Cape Girardeau County, Missouri

Founded in 1812, Cape Girardeau County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Cape Girardeau County was one of the five original counties. The city of Jackson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 31, Cape Girardeau County has a population of 82,113 and area of 579 square miles (1,500 km²).

List of all cities in Cape Girardeau County, MO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Altenburg, MO 63732 573
Apple Creek, MO 63769 573
Burfordville, MO 63739 573
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701 573
63702 573
63703 573
Daisy, MO 63743 573
Delta, MO 63744 573
Dutchtown, MO 63745 573
Friedheim, MO 63747 573
Gordonville, MO 63701 573
Gordonville, MO 63752 573
Jackson, MO 63755 573
Millersville, MO 63766 573
New Wells, MO 63732 573
Oak Ridge, MO 63769 573
Old Appleton, MO 63770 573
Perryville, MO 63747 573
Pocahontas, MO 63779 573
Whitewater, MO 63785 573

Major Cities and Towns in Cape Girardeau County, Missouri

Cape Girardeau

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 29.72 square miles
  • Population: About 40,000 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 63701, 63703
  • Latitude: 37.3059° N
  • Longitude: -89.5181° W

Location and History

Cape Girardeau, located along the Mississippi River, is the largest city and economic center of Cape Girardeau County. The city was founded in the late 18th century by French Canadian Jean Baptiste de Girardot and developed as a key river port. The arrival of steamboats and later the railroad transformed Cape Girardeau into a thriving trade hub, connecting it to markets along the Mississippi. The city played significant roles during the Civil War and has maintained its historical significance through preserved architecture and landmarks. Today, Cape Girardeau is a vibrant city with a blend of historical charm and modern amenities, serving as a regional hub for healthcare, education, and commerce.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cape Girardeau is served by the Cape Girardeau Public School District, which includes Central High School. The city is home to Southeast Missouri State University, which enriches the community through educational programs and cultural events. Notable landmarks include the Mississippi River Tales Mural on the floodwall, depicting the area’s history, and the historic Old St. Vincent’s Church. The Trail of Tears State Park is nearby, offering scenic views and historical significance. The city’s downtown area features unique shops, restaurants, and the Glenn House, a restored Victorian home. Cape Girardeau’s combination of history, riverfront attractions, and educational institutions make it a dynamic center in southeastern Missouri.

Jackson

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 10.82 square miles
  • Population: Around 15,000 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 63755
  • Latitude: 37.3823° N
  • Longitude: -89.6668° W

Location and History

Jackson, the county seat of Cape Girardeau County, is located west of Cape Girardeau along Hubble Creek. Established in 1814, Jackson was the first community in the U.S. to be named after President Andrew Jackson. The town’s central location in the county made it an ideal location for the county seat, and it developed as a regional center for agriculture and trade. Jackson has preserved much of its historical charm, with many of its original buildings still standing. Over the years, it has grown steadily, attracting families and businesses while maintaining its small-town atmosphere and strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jackson is served by the Jackson R-II School District, including Jackson High School, known for its academic programs and sports teams. Landmarks in Jackson include Kimbeland Country Club and Jackson City Park, which hosts events and offers recreational facilities. The Cape Girardeau County History Center provides insights into local heritage, and Klaus Park features trails and playgrounds. Each year, Jackson hosts Homecomers, one of Missouri’s oldest festivals, celebrating local traditions with food, music, and games. Jackson’s blend of history, family-friendly amenities, and annual events make it a welcoming community.

Delta

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 0.52 square miles
  • Population: Around 430 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 63744
  • Latitude: 37.1984° N
  • Longitude: -89.7382° W

Location and History

Delta is a small town in the southern part of Cape Girardeau County, known for its agricultural roots. Founded in the late 19th century, Delta developed as a farming community supported by its fertile soil, ideal for crops such as cotton and soybeans. The arrival of the railroad contributed to the town’s growth, allowing Delta to serve as a trading center for surrounding farms. Although small, Delta remains a close-knit community with a focus on agriculture and family values. The town has maintained its rural charm and continues to be a peaceful, farming-centered community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Delta is served by the Delta R-V School District, with Delta High School providing education and extracurricular activities for local students. Key landmarks in Delta include Delta Community Park, a central gathering spot for families and town events. The Delta Fall Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with games, food, and crafts. Nearby conservation areas offer hunting and fishing opportunities, and the surrounding farmland provides scenic rural views. Delta’s strong community spirit and agricultural ties make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors.

Oak Ridge

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 0.26 square miles
  • Population: Around 250 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 63769
  • Latitude: 37.5073° N
  • Longitude: -89.7251° W

Location and History

Oak Ridge is a small village located north of Jackson in Cape Girardeau County. Established in the early 19th century, the town was named for its location on a wooded ridge surrounded by oak trees. Oak Ridge developed as an agricultural community, with local farms producing crops and livestock for the region. The town has retained its small size and rural character, preserving a quiet, family-friendly atmosphere. Oak Ridge’s location near larger towns allows residents to enjoy a rural lifestyle with access to modern amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Oak Ridge is served by the Oak Ridge R-VI School District, which includes Oak Ridge High School known for its strong academic programs and community involvement. Oak Ridge Park provides recreational facilities, including a playground and picnic area, and serves as a gathering spot for residents. The town hosts an annual picnic that celebrates local culture with food, games, and music. Nearby natural areas offer opportunities for hiking, hunting, and outdoor activities, contributing to Oak Ridge’s appeal as a quiet rural community with a close-knit feel.

Whitewater

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 0.23 square miles
  • Population: Around 125 (latest estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 63785
  • Latitude: 37.2273° N
  • Longitude: -89.7892° W

Location and History

Whitewater is a small rural town in southwestern Cape Girardeau County. Established in the late 19th century, Whitewater was named after the Whitewater River, which flows nearby. The town initially developed as a farming community, with the fertile land supporting crops and livestock. Although Whitewater remains small, it has preserved its rural charm and family-centered community, with many residents continuing to work in agriculture. Whitewater’s peaceful surroundings and proximity to natural resources make it a quiet and scenic place to live.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Whitewater is part of the Delta R-V School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Delta. Landmarks include Whitewater Baptist Church, which has served as a community hub for over a century. The town park provides a space for local gatherings and recreational activities. Whitewater hosts an annual community picnic, where residents come together to celebrate their rural lifestyle with food, games, and entertainment. The surrounding countryside offers hunting and fishing opportunities, adding to Whitewater’s appeal as a serene, agriculturally focused community.