Cities and Towns in Clayton County, Georgia

Founded in 1858, Clayton County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Clayton County was formed from Fayette and Henry counties. The city of Jonesboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 63, Clayton County has a population of 297,100 and area of 143 square miles (370 km²).

List of all cities in Clayton County, GA alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Conley, GA	30288	404/678/470
Forest, GA	30298	404/678/470
Forest Park, GA	30297	404/678/470
	30298	404/678/470
Fort Gillem, GA	30297	404/678/470
Jonesboro, GA	30236	770/678/470
	30237	770/678/470
	30238	770/678/470
Lake City, GA	30260	770/678/470
Lake Spivey, GA	30236	770/678/470
Lovejoy, GA	30250	770/678/470
Morrow, GA	30260	770/678/470
	30287	770/678/470
Rex, GA	30273	770/678/470
Riverdale, GA	30274	770/678/470
	30296	770/678/470

Major Cities and Towns in Clayton County, Georgia

Jonesboro

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 2.7 square miles
• Population: Approximately 5,000
• Zip Codes: 30236, 30238
• Latitude: 33.5215° N
• Longitude: 84.3538° W

City Location and History

Jonesboro, the county seat of Clayton County, is located in the southern part of the Atlanta metropolitan area. Founded in 1823, the city was originally named Leaksville but was later renamed in honor of railroad official Samuel G. Jones. Jonesboro played a significant role during the Civil War, particularly in the Battle of Jonesborough in 1864, which was a decisive Union victory that led to the fall of Atlanta. After the war, Jonesboro rebuilt and became a center of commerce and agriculture in the region. Today, Jonesboro is known for its historic charm, with many buildings and sites from the antebellum and Civil War eras still preserved.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jonesboro is served by the Clayton County Public Schools system, with notable institutions including Jonesboro High School, which has a strong academic and athletic tradition. The city’s landmarks include the Stately Oaks Plantation, a historic antebellum home that offers guided tours and events, and the Clayton County International Park, which features recreational facilities and the famous beach scene from the 1996 Summer Olympics. Jonesboro’s historic downtown area, with its charming shops and restaurants, reflects the city’s rich history and vibrant community spirit.

Riverdale

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 4.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 15,000
• Zip Codes: 30274, 30296
• Latitude: 33.5726° N
• Longitude: 84.4133° W

City Location and History

Riverdale is located in the northern part of Clayton County, just 10 miles south of downtown Atlanta. The city was established in 1908 and grew rapidly in the 20th century due to its proximity to Atlanta and the expansion of the transportation network, including the construction of major highways and the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Riverdale’s history is marked by its transformation from a rural farming community to a bustling suburban city. Over the years, Riverdale has become a diverse and vibrant community, known for its strong residential base and growing commercial sectors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Riverdale is part of the Clayton County Public Schools system, with Riverdale High School being a key educational institution. The city’s landmarks include the Riverdale Town Center, which hosts community events and provides space for cultural activities, and the Willie A. Watkins Riverdale Chapel, a historic site that reflects the city’s rich heritage. Riverdale’s strategic location near major transportation hubs makes it an attractive area for businesses and residents alike, offering a blend of suburban living with easy access to the amenities of Atlanta.

Forest Park

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 9.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 20,000
• Zip Codes: 30297
• Latitude: 33.6215° N
• Longitude: 84.3581° W

City Location and History

Forest Park is one of the largest cities in Clayton County and is located just south of Atlanta, adjacent to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The city was incorporated in 1908 and developed rapidly due to its strategic location near the railroad and later, the airport. Forest Park’s early economy was based on agriculture, with the railroad providing vital links to markets. Over time, the city evolved into a suburban community, benefiting from the growth of Atlanta and the expansion of the airport. Today, Forest Park is a diverse city with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Forest Park is served by the Clayton County Public Schools system, with Forest Park High School being a major educational institution in the city. Notable landmarks include the Forest Park Farmers Market, one of the largest fresh produce markets in the Southeast, and Starr Park, a central recreational area that offers sports facilities, a pool, and picnic areas. The city’s proximity to the airport makes it a key location for businesses related to transportation and logistics, contributing to Forest Park’s economic vitality and growth.

Morrow

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 3.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 7,000
• Zip Codes: 30260, 30287
• Latitude: 33.5835° N
• Longitude: 84.3391° W

City Location and History

Morrow is located in the northeastern part of Clayton County, along the I-75 corridor, making it a significant suburban area within the Atlanta metropolitan region. The city was incorporated in 1943 and was named after Radford E. Morrow, a prominent local landowner. Morrow’s growth was largely driven by the expansion of the interstate highway system and the development of nearby shopping centers, including Southlake Mall. The city has a rich educational heritage, being home to Clayton State University, which has played a central role in the community’s development. Morrow has grown into a bustling city with a blend of residential neighborhoods, commercial areas, and educational institutions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Morrow is served by the Clayton County Public Schools system, with Morrow High School being a key educational institution in the city. The city’s major landmarks include Clayton State University, which offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and the Reynolds Nature Preserve, a 146-acre green space that provides opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and environmental education. The Morrow Center, a premier event facility, hosts various conferences, weddings, and community events, further contributing to the city’s cultural and social life.

College Park (Partly in Clayton County)

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

• Area: 10.1 square miles (portion in Clayton County)
• Population: Approximately 14,000 (entire city)
• Zip Codes: 30337, 30349
• Latitude: 33.6482° N
• Longitude: 84.4576° W

City Location and History

College Park is a city that spans both Fulton and Clayton counties, located directly adjacent to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. The city was incorporated in 1891 and is known for its historic neighborhoods and proximity to the airport. College Park’s name reflects its early history as a hub for higher education, with the Georgia Military Academy (now Woodward Academy) being one of the city’s prominent institutions. Over the years, College Park has grown into a significant suburban city with a strong connection to Atlanta’s transportation network. The city’s location has made it a key area for businesses related to the airport and logistics industries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The portion of College Park within Clayton County is served by the Clayton County Public Schools system, with North Clayton High School being a major educational institution. Key landmarks include the Georgia International Convention Center, one of the largest event venues in the state, and the historic downtown College Park, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic homes. The city’s proximity to the airport and major highways makes it a vital area for economic development, with numerous hotels, office parks, and logistics companies based in College Park.

Map of Cities in Clayton County, GA