Cities and Towns in Effingham County, Georgia
Founded in 1777, Effingham County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Effingham County was formed from St Mathew and St Philip Parishes. The city of Springfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 103, Effingham County has a population of 66,741 and area of 480 square miles (1,243 km²).
List of all cities in Effingham County, GA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clyo, GA | 31303 | 912 |
| Eden, GA | 31307 | 912 |
| Guyton, GA | 31312 | 912 |
| Marlow, GA | 31312 | 912 |
| Meldrim, GA | 31318 | 912 |
| Pineora, GA | 31312 | 912 |
| Rincon, GA | 31326 | 912 |
| Springfield, GA | 31329 | 912 |
| Stillwell, GA | 31329 | 912 |
Major Cities and Towns in Effingham County, Georgia
Springfield
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.2 square miles
- Population: 4,735 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 31329
- Latitude: 32.3721° N
- Longitude: 81.3107° W
Location and History
Springfield is the county seat of Effingham County, located in southeastern Georgia, about 25 miles northwest of Savannah. Founded in 1799, Springfield has a long history that reflects the development of the region. The city was established as the county seat due to its central location, and it quickly became a hub for local government and commerce. Throughout the 19th century, Springfield remained a small, rural community with an economy primarily based on agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred modest growth, but Springfield has largely retained its small-town charm and historical character. The city is known for its well-preserved historic district, which includes several buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Springfield is served by the Effingham County School District, with Effingham County High School being a major educational institution in the city. The city is home to several landmarks, including the Effingham County Courthouse, a historic structure built in 1908 that remains the centerpiece of the downtown area. Another significant site is the Mars Theatre, a restored 1940s-era cinema that now serves as a community arts center, hosting movies, concerts, and live performances. The Springfield Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, features a variety of architectural styles, including Greek Revival and Victorian, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history. The annual Springfield Fall Festival is a popular event that celebrates the community’s heritage with crafts, food, and entertainment, drawing visitors from across the region.
Rincon
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 9.6 square miles
- Population: 10,934 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 31326
- Latitude: 32.2966° N
- Longitude: 81.2354° W
Location and History
Rincon is the largest city in Effingham County, located in the southeastern part of the county, just north of Savannah. The city was founded in the late 19th century, originally as a small railroad town along the Central of Georgia Railway. Rincon’s growth accelerated in the mid-20th century as the Savannah metropolitan area expanded, attracting residents seeking a suburban lifestyle with easy access to the city. Over the years, Rincon has developed into a thriving community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Despite its growth, Rincon has managed to retain a sense of community and small-town charm, making it a popular place to live for those working in nearby Savannah.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rincon is part of the Effingham County School District, with South Effingham High School being one of the key educational institutions in the city. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including Freedom Park, a large recreational area that offers sports facilities, walking trails, and a playground, making it a central gathering place for the community. The Rincon City Hall, with its distinctive clock tower, is another significant site that reflects the city’s development. Rincon’s proximity to the Savannah River and its easy access to major highways have contributed to its growth as a regional hub for business and industry. The city’s annual events, such as the Rincon Oktoberfest and the Rincon Noon Lions Club Christmas Parade, showcase the community’s vibrant spirit and provide opportunities for residents to come together and celebrate their town’s heritage.
Guyton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.1 square miles
- Population: 2,289 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 31312
- Latitude: 32.3360° N
- Longitude: 81.3921° W
Location and History
Guyton is a small town located in the western part of Effingham County. Founded in the early 19th century, Guyton was originally a summer retreat for wealthy Savannah residents seeking refuge from the heat and malaria. The town’s location along the Central of Georgia Railway contributed to its growth, making it a convenient stop for travelers and a hub for local agriculture. During the Civil War, Guyton played a significant role as a hospital town, providing care for wounded soldiers. After the war, the town continued to grow as a small agricultural community, with cotton being the primary crop. Today, Guyton is known for its historic charm and quiet, residential atmosphere, making it a desirable place to live for those seeking a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Guyton is served by the Effingham County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as Effingham County High School. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Guyton Historic District, which features a variety of architectural styles from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Guyton Depot, a restored train station, serves as a reminder of the town’s railroad history and is a central part of the community’s heritage. Another significant site is the St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, built in 1859, which is one of the oldest churches in the area. The town’s annual Guyton Christmas Parade and the Guyton Redfish Festival are popular events that bring the community together and celebrate its history and culture. With its tree-lined streets and historic homes, Guyton offers a picturesque setting and a strong sense of community.
Meldrim
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Not officially incorporated as a city
- Population: Approx. 300 (as of the latest estimates)
- Zip Codes: 31318
- Latitude: 32.2024° N
- Longitude: 81.3901° W
Location and History
Meldrim is a small, unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Effingham County, near the Chatham County line. The community was established in the late 19th century and was named after Peter Meldrim, a prominent Savannah attorney and judge. Meldrim developed as a small agricultural community, with farming being the primary economic activity. The community’s location along the railroad contributed to its growth, making it a convenient stop for transporting goods. Despite its small size, Meldrim has a rich history and a close-knit community, with many of its residents having deep roots in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Meldrim is part of the Effingham County School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Rincon or Guyton. The community is home to the historic Meldrim Baptist Church, which has been a central gathering place for residents since its founding in the late 19th century. The surrounding area is characterized by farmland, forests, and small creeks, offering opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hunting, and hiking. Meldrim’s close proximity to the Ogeechee River adds to its appeal, providing additional recreational opportunities. The community’s small size and rural charm make it a peaceful and welcoming place to live, with a strong sense of tradition and community.
Clyo
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: Not officially incorporated as a city
- Population: Approx. 400 (as of the latest estimates)
- Zip Codes: 31303
- Latitude: 32.5302° N
- Longitude: 81.3073° W
Location and History
Clyo is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Effingham County, near the Savannah River. The community was established in the late 19th century and developed as a rural farming area, with agriculture being the mainstay of the local economy. Clyo’s history is closely tied to the railroad, which played a significant role in its growth by providing a means to transport agricultural products to larger markets. The community has remained small and largely rural, with many of its residents involved in farming or other agricultural activities. Clyo is known for its quiet, country atmosphere and strong sense of community, with a rich history that reflects its agricultural roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clyo is part of the Effingham County School District, with students attending schools in nearby towns such as Springfield or Rincon. The community is home to several historic landmarks, including the Clyo United Methodist Church, which has been a focal point of the community for over a century. The surrounding landscape is characterized by rolling farmland, forests, and the Savannah River, which provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities. The nearby New Ebenezer Retreat Center, located on the site of the historic Salzburger settlement of Ebenezer, offers educational programs and events that celebrate the area’s history and natural beauty. Clyo’s annual community events, such as church gatherings and local festivals, help to maintain the strong sense of community that defines this rural area.
Map of Cities in Effingham County, GA
