Cities and Towns in Duval County, Texas
Founded in 1858, Duval County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Duval County was formed from Live Oak County, Nueces County and Starr County. The city of San Diego is the county seat. With FIPS code of 131, Duval County has a population of 9,756 and area of 1,793 square miles (4,644 km²).
List of all cities in Duval County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Benavides, TX | 78341 | 361 |
| Concepcion, TX | 78349 | 361 |
| Cruz Calle, TX | 78349 | 361 |
| Freer, TX | 78357 | 361 |
| Ramirez, TX | 78376 | 361 |
| Realitos, TX | 78376 | 361 |
| Rios, TX | 78349 | 361 |
| Rosita, TX | 78384 | 361 |
| San Diego, TX | 78384 | 361 |
| Sejita, TX | 78376 | 361 |
| Seven Sisters, TX | 78357 | 361 |
Major Cities and Towns in Duval County, Texas
Duval County, located in southern Texas, is part of the Brush Country region and is known for its history tied to ranching, oil production, and its rich Hispanic culture. The county was created in 1858 and organized in 1876, and it is named after Burr H. Duval, a soldier in the Texas Revolution. The county has a few small towns and cities that serve as centers for local government, education, and community life.
San Diego
General Information
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,500 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 78384
- Latitude/Longitude: 27.7641° N / 98.2389° W
City Location and History
San Diego is the county seat of Duval County and is located in the central part of the county. The city was established in the mid-1800s as a ranching community and grew due to its location along the Texas Mexican Railway, which connected the area to major trade routes. San Diego became an important hub for cattle ranching and, later, oil production, which brought economic growth to the region in the early 20th century. The town is known for its strong Hispanic cultural influence, which is reflected in its architecture, traditions, and festivals. San Diego also played a role in the early political movements of South Texas, serving as a base for leaders advocating for Hispanic civil rights during the early 20th century. Today, San Diego is a small but vital community that serves as the administrative and cultural heart of Duval County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
San Diego is served by the San Diego Independent School District, which includes San Diego High School, Bernarda Jaime Junior High School, and Collins-Parr Elementary School. The district is known for its strong focus on academics, sports, and community involvement. Major landmarks in San Diego include the Duval County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as the center of county government. The San Diego Historical Museum offers exhibits on the area’s ranching and oil history, as well as its cultural heritage. The city hosts the annual San Diego Fiesta, celebrating local traditions with parades, music, and food. San Diego City Park provides outdoor recreation opportunities, including picnic areas and walking trails. Additionally, the town’s close proximity to nearby ranches and oil fields highlights its connection to the region’s economic roots.
Freer
General Information
- Area: 2.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,800 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 78357
- Latitude/Longitude: 27.8772° N / 98.6172° W
City Location and History
Freer is located in the northwestern part of Duval County, along U.S. Highway 59, which connects it to nearby towns and cities. The town was established in the early 1900s and named after Robert Freer, a local rancher and businessman who played a significant role in the community’s development. Freer gained prominence during the early 20th century as an important center for oil production after large oil fields were discovered in the region. The town grew rapidly during the oil boom, attracting workers and businesses to the area. Freer is also known for its role in the Brush Country’s ranching industry, and its economy has historically been tied to both oil and agriculture. While the population has remained relatively small, Freer continues to be an important economic and cultural center for the surrounding region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Freer is served by the Freer Independent School District, which includes Freer High School, Freer Junior High School, and Norma Krueger Elementary School. The district emphasizes academic success, extracurricular activities, and sports programs. One of Freer’s most notable landmarks is the Freer Oil Museum, which showcases the history of oil production in the region and its impact on the local economy. The Freer Rattlesnake Roundup, held annually, is a unique event that draws visitors from across Texas and highlights the town’s connection to the rugged environment of the Brush Country. Freer City Park offers residents and visitors a space for outdoor activities, including sports fields, picnic areas, and a playground. The town’s historical buildings, local restaurants, and proximity to ranchlands provide a glimpse into the community’s rich history and continuing traditions.
Benavides
General Information
- Area: 1.0 square mile
- Population: Approximately 1,300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 78341
- Latitude/Longitude: 27.6017° N / 98.4117° W
City Location and History
Benavides is located in the southern part of Duval County and was founded in the late 19th century. The town was named after Placido Benavides, a prominent local rancher and community leader who contributed significantly to the town’s development. Benavides originally grew as a ranching community and became an important agricultural hub for the region. The arrival of the Texas Mexican Railway in the late 19th century helped the town flourish by connecting it to larger markets for cattle and crops. During the early 20th century, Benavides also saw growth from the oil industry, which provided jobs and economic stability. Today, the town maintains its rural character, with ranching and oil still playing a significant role in the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Benavides is served by the Benavides Independent School District, which includes Benavides High School, Benavides Junior High School, and Benavides Elementary School. The schools are known for their small class sizes and emphasis on community involvement. Notable landmarks in Benavides include the Benavides Historical Museum, which highlights the town’s ranching heritage and its early settlers. The Placido Benavides Memorial Park is a central gathering spot for the community, offering playgrounds, picnic areas, and walking trails. The town also hosts local events, such as the annual Benavides Cowboy Festival, which celebrates the area’s ranching traditions with rodeos, live music, and cultural performances. The surrounding countryside, with its open ranchlands and scenic views, provides opportunities for hunting, birdwatching, and outdoor exploration.
Concepcion
General Information
- Area: 0.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (2023 estimate)
- Zip Code: 78349
- Latitude/Longitude: 27.4000° N / 98.3590° W
City Location and History
Concepcion is a small, unincorporated community located in the southeastern corner of Duval County. It was established in the late 19th century as a ranching settlement and has remained a quiet, rural community ever since. The town was named after the Immaculate Conception of the Virgin Mary, reflecting the strong Catholic influence in the region. While Concepcion has never grown significantly in population, it has a rich history tied to the ranching and farming traditions of South Texas. The community is surrounded by large ranches and wide-open landscapes, offering a glimpse into the region’s agricultural heritage. Concepcion remains an important part of Duval County’s cultural and historical identity, with a small but dedicated population that values its rural lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Children in Concepcion typically attend schools in nearby towns, such as Benavides or San Diego, as the town does not have its own school district. One of the key landmarks in Concepcion is the Immaculate Conception Church, a historic Catholic church that serves as the spiritual and cultural heart of the community. The town also has a small community park that provides space for gatherings and recreational activities. The surrounding ranchlands are a significant feature of Concepcion, offering opportunities for hunting, horseback riding, and exploring the natural beauty of the Brush Country. Despite its small size, Concepcion’s history and connection to the land make it an integral part of Duval County’s heritage.
