Cities and Towns in Christian County, Kentucky
Founded in 1796, Christian County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Christian County was formed from Logan County. The city of Hopkinsville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Christian County has a population of 72,357 and area of 721 square miles (1,867 km²).
List of all cities in Christian County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Crofton, KY | 42217 | 270 |
| Fairview, KY | 42221 | 270 |
| Fort Campbell, KY | 42223 | 270 |
| Gracey, KY | 42232 | 270 |
| Herndon, KY | 42236 | 270 |
| Hopkinsville, KY | 42240 | 270 |
| 42241 | 270 | |
| La Fayette, KY | 42254 | 270 |
| Oak Grove, KY | 42262 | 270 |
| Pembroke, KY | 42266 | 270 |
| Saint Elmo, KY | 42266 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Christian County, Kentucky
Hopkinsville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 32.75 square miles
- Population: Approximately 31,500 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42240, 42241
- Latitude: 36.8656° N
- Longitude: 87.4886° W
Location and History
Hopkinsville, the county seat of Christian County, is located in southwestern Kentucky, about 25 miles north of the Tennessee border. Founded in 1796 and originally named “Elizabethtown,” the city was renamed Hopkinsville in honor of Samuel Hopkins, a Revolutionary War veteran. In its early years, Hopkinsville served as a regional trading center due to its location along the trade routes connecting Kentucky to Tennessee. The city experienced significant growth in the 19th century with the advent of the tobacco industry, making it an important agricultural hub. During the Civil War, Hopkinsville was occupied by both Union and Confederate forces at different times, reflecting Kentucky’s divided loyalties. Today, Hopkinsville is known for its agricultural production, manufacturing industries, and historical significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hopkinsville is served by the Christian County Public School District, with key institutions including Christian County High School and Hopkinsville High School. Landmarks in the city include the historic Alhambra Theatre, which hosts cultural events and performances, and the Museums of Historic Hopkinsville-Christian County, which features exhibits on local history. The city is also home to the Trail of Tears Commemorative Park, honoring the Cherokee people who passed through the area during their forced relocation. Hopkinsville’s downtown area offers historic architecture, restaurants, and shops, while nearby Fort Campbell Army Base plays a vital role in the local economy.
Oak Grove
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 10.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,500 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42262
- Latitude: 36.6659° N
- Longitude: 87.4293° W
Location and History
Oak Grove is located in southern Christian County, near the Kentucky-Tennessee border and adjacent to the Fort Campbell Army Base. Incorporated in 1974, Oak Grove grew rapidly as a residential community for military personnel and their families due to its proximity to Fort Campbell. The town’s development is closely tied to the base, with much of its economy and population centered around serving the military community. Over the years, Oak Grove has expanded to include a variety of businesses, schools, and recreational facilities, making it a growing suburban area in the region. Its location near Interstate 24 also provides easy access to both Hopkinsville and Clarksville, Tennessee.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Oak Grove is part of the Christian County Public School District, with key schools including South Christian Elementary School and Hopkinsville Middle School. The city’s primary landmark is the War Memorial Walking Trail, which honors veterans and offers a scenic place for residents to enjoy outdoor activities. Oak Grove also features the Viceroy Performing Arts Center, which hosts concerts and community events. The city’s close proximity to Fort Campbell makes it a vital part of the military community, with many residents employed by or connected to the base. The annual Spring into Summer Salutes Fort Campbell Festival is a major event celebrating the city’s military heritage.
Pembroke
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 870 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42266
- Latitude: 36.7728° N
- Longitude: 87.3578° W
Location and History
Pembroke is a small town located in southeastern Christian County, near the Tennessee border. Founded in the early 19th century, Pembroke grew as an agricultural community, with tobacco farming being a major part of the local economy. The town was named after Pembroke Somerset, an influential landowner in the region. Throughout its history, Pembroke has maintained its rural character and close-knit community, with many families involved in farming for generations. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s provided a boost to the local economy, allowing farmers to transport their goods to larger markets. Today, Pembroke remains a quiet rural town with deep agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pembroke is served by the Christian County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as South Christian Elementary and Hopkinsville High School. A key landmark in Pembroke is the historic R.J. Meacham House, a well-preserved example of 19th-century architecture. The town also boasts the Pembroke City Park, which offers recreational facilities and hosts community events. Pembroke’s surrounding farmland and scenic countryside reflect its agricultural heritage, making it a peaceful place to live while still being within easy reach of larger towns like Hopkinsville.
Crofton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 760 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 42217
- Latitude: 37.0464° N
- Longitude: 87.4875° W
Location and History
Crofton is located in northern Christian County, along U.S. Route 41, about 15 miles north of Hopkinsville. Founded in the late 19th century, Crofton grew as a coal mining and agricultural town, with its economy centered around the mining of coal from nearby deposits and the farming of tobacco, corn, and livestock. The town developed as a small railroad stop on the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, which helped facilitate the transport of coal and agricultural products to larger markets. Although the coal industry has diminished, Crofton has retained its rural charm and agricultural roots, with many local farms still in operation today.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Crofton is served by the Christian County School District, with students attending nearby schools in Hopkinsville. The town’s key landmarks include the Crofton Depot, a historic building that served as a hub for rail transport during the town’s early years. The nearby Pennyrile Forest State Resort Park offers hiking, camping, and fishing, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Crofton’s annual Heritage Days Festival celebrates the town’s history with music, food, and crafts, bringing the community together. The town’s scenic rural setting and friendly community make it a welcoming place for residents and visitors alike.
Lafayette
Area, Population, and Zip Codes
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 165 (as of 2020 estimate)
- Zip Codes: 42254
- Latitude: 36.6481° N
- Longitude: 87.6275° W
Location and History
Lafayette is a small unincorporated community located in southwestern Christian County, near the Tennessee border. Established in the early 19th century, the town was named in honor of Marquis de Lafayette, a French general who played a key role in the American Revolutionary War. Like many rural communities in Kentucky, Lafayette developed around agriculture, with tobacco farming being a primary economic driver. The town has remained small throughout its history, maintaining its rural character and close-knit community. Although it is one of the smaller communities in Christian County, Lafayette’s location near major roads provides access to larger towns and cities in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lafayette is part of the Christian County Public School District, with students attending schools in nearby Pembroke or Hopkinsville. A notable feature of the town is its proximity to the Tennessee border, providing easy access to neighboring communities in both states. Lafayette Baptist Church serves as a central gathering place for the community, reflecting the town’s strong sense of tradition and faith. The surrounding farmland and rolling hills offer a peaceful rural environment, with opportunities for outdoor activities like hunting and fishing. Despite its small size, Lafayette’s historical significance and tranquil setting make it an appealing spot for those seeking a quiet rural lifestyle.
