Cities and Towns in Cocke County, Tennessee
Founded in 1797, Cocke County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Cocke County was formed from Jefferson County. The city of Newport is the county seat. With FIPS code of 29, Cocke County has a population of 36,418 and area of 434 square miles (1,124 km²).
List of all cities in Cocke County, TN alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Bybee, TN | 37713 | 423 |
Cosby, TN | 37722 | 423 |
Del Rio, TN | 37727 | 423 |
Hartford, TN | 37753 | 423 |
Newport, TN | 37821 | 423 |
37822 | 423 | |
Parrottsville, TN | 37843 | 423 |
Major Cities and Towns in Cocke County, Tennessee
Newport
Overview
- Area: Approximately 6.4 square miles
- Population: 6,945 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 37821, 37822
- Coordinates: 35.9670° N, 83.1870° W
Location and History
Newport, the county seat of Cocke County, is located at the confluence of the Pigeon and French Broad Rivers, making it a historically significant transportation and trade hub in the region. Founded in the late 18th century, Newport developed as a key stopover on the stagecoach roads between North Carolina and the western frontiers of Tennessee. Its strategic location contributed to its growth as a commercial center, especially during the 19th century when it served as a gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains and other parts of Appalachia. Despite being impacted by the Civil War and subsequent economic changes, Newport has managed to retain its historic charm while integrating modern amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Newport is served by Cocke County School District, with notable institutions including Newport Grammar School and Cocke County High School. The city is known for its historic downtown area, which features a blend of architectural styles and the Cocke County Memorial Building, a prominent landmark dedicated to veterans. Newport’s proximity to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park also makes it a gateway for millions of tourists seeking outdoor recreation, enhancing its cultural and economic landscape.
Cosby
Overview
- Area: Approximately 35.6 square miles
- Population: 5,201 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 37722
- Coordinates: 35.8148° N, 83.2488° W
Location and History
Cosby is situated in the northeastern part of Cocke County, nestled along the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains. Known for its rural atmosphere and scenic beauty, Cosby has a rich history of agriculture and timber industries, which have shaped its development. The community began in the early 19th century primarily as a farming area but gained prominence for its lumber and moonshine during the prohibition era. Today, Cosby maintains its small-town feel and serves as a quieter entry point to the Great Smoky Mountains compared to more commercialized towns.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Education in Cosby is predominantly served by the Cocke County School District, including Cosby Elementary and Cosby High School, which also serve surrounding smaller communities. Cosby’s natural beauty is one of its most significant assets, with the nearby Foothills Parkway offering stunning views of the Smoky Mountains. Cosby is also a popular starting point for hiking trails into the national park, including paths leading to the Appalachian Trail. The annual Cosby Ramp Festival, celebrating the region’s Appalachian heritage and wild ramps, attracts visitors from across the region.
Parrottsville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.1 square miles
- Population: 263 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 37843
- Coordinates: 36.0106° N, 83.0872° W
Location and History
Parrottsville, one of Tennessee’s oldest towns, is located in eastern Cocke County. It was incorporated in 1836 and named after the Parrott family, early settlers who played a significant role in the community’s development. The town’s layout, with a traditional town square and surrounding farmland, reflects its mid-19th century establishment. Despite its small size, Parrottsville has maintained a distinct identity, with a strong sense of community and preservation of its historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Parrottsville does not have its own school system; students typically attend nearby schools in the Cocke County School District. The town is characterized by its quaint downtown area, which hosts several historic buildings, including the Parrottsville Inn, a historic structure that dates back to the early days of the town. The surrounding agricultural landscape offers picturesque settings and supports local farming activities. Community events such as the Parrottsville Christmas Parade and the Heritage Days Festival emphasize the town’s commitment to celebrating its history and fostering community ties.