Cities and Towns in Forsyth County, Georgia

Founded in 1832, Forsyth County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Forsyth County was formed from Cherokee County. The city of Cumming is the county seat. With FIPS code of 117, Forsyth County has a population of 260,206 and area of 226 square miles (585 km²).

List of all cities in Forsyth County, GA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Cumming, GA 30028 770/678/470
30040 770/678/470
30041 770/678/470

Major Cities and Towns in Forsyth County, Georgia

Cumming

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 6.8 square miles
  • Population: 7,318 (as of the 2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 30040, 30041
  • Latitude: 34.2073° N
  • Longitude: 84.1402° W

Location and History

Cumming is the county seat and the only incorporated city in Forsyth County, located in the northern part of Georgia. Established in 1833, the city was named after Colonel William Cumming, a prominent figure in the state’s early history. Cumming has a rich history tied to the development of Forsyth County, particularly during the Gold Rush era when the region saw a surge in population due to the discovery of gold in nearby Dahlonega. Over the years, Cumming remained a small, rural community with a strong agricultural base. However, in recent decades, the city has experienced rapid growth, driven by its proximity to Atlanta and the development of nearby Lake Lanier, a major recreational destination. This growth has transformed Cumming into a bustling suburban hub while still maintaining its small-town charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Cumming is served by the Forsyth County School District, one of the top-ranked districts in the state, with Forsyth Central High School being a prominent educational institution in the area. The city is home to several landmarks, including the Cumming Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual Cumming Country Fair & Festival, a popular event that draws visitors from across the region. Another significant site is the Sawnee Mountain Preserve, offering hiking trails and stunning views of the North Georgia mountains. The Cumming Playhouse, located in a historic school building, is a cultural hub for performing arts in the community. Additionally, the nearby Lake Lanier provides ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water sports, making it a central part of the area’s recreational activities.

Big Creek

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: Not officially incorporated as a city
  • Population: Approx. 1,800 (as of the latest estimates)
  • Zip Codes: 30041
  • Latitude: 34.1688° N
  • Longitude: 84.1473° W

Location and History

Big Creek is an unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Forsyth County. Named after the nearby Big Creek, which flows through the region, the area has long been a part of the county’s rural landscape. Historically, Big Creek was primarily an agricultural community, with farming and timber as the main industries. The development of the area has been gradual, with much of it remaining rural until the late 20th century. The expansion of suburban Atlanta, along with the construction of GA-400, has brought more residential and commercial development to Big Creek, transforming it into a growing suburban community while retaining much of its natural beauty.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Big Creek is served by the Forsyth County School District, with notable schools such as South Forsyth High School and Big Creek Elementary School, both known for their strong academic programs. The community is close to several recreational landmarks, including the Big Creek Greenway, a popular multi-use trail that runs through Forsyth County, providing residents with opportunities for walking, biking, and enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, the nearby Fowler Park offers sports facilities, playgrounds, and a skate park, making it a central recreational hub for families in the area. Big Creek’s annual events, such as local festivals and community gatherings, help foster a strong sense of community and highlight the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

Coal Mountain

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: Not officially incorporated as a city
  • Population: Approx. 2,500 (as of the latest estimates)
  • Zip Codes: 30028
  • Latitude: 34.2876° N
  • Longitude: 84.0996° W

Location and History

Coal Mountain is an unincorporated community located in the northern part of Forsyth County. The area was historically known for its coal deposits, which were mined in the 19th and early 20th centuries, giving the community its name. Coal Mountain remained a small, rural area with farming and coal mining as the main economic activities for much of its history. As Forsyth County has grown, so too has Coal Mountain, evolving into a suburban community that retains much of its rural character while benefiting from its proximity to Cumming and other parts of the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Coal Mountain is part of the Forsyth County School District, with North Forsyth High School and Coal Mountain Elementary School being key educational institutions in the area. The community is also home to the North Georgia Premium Outlets, a major shopping destination that attracts visitors from across the region. Coal Mountain Park is another notable landmark, offering sports facilities, walking trails, and picnic areas for residents and visitors. The area’s proximity to Sawnee Mountain and the Sawnee Mountain Preserve provides additional opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hiking and birdwatching. Coal Mountain’s rural roots and growing suburban development make it a unique blend of old and new, appealing to those who appreciate both nature and convenience.

Chestatee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: Not officially incorporated as a city
  • Population: Approx. 1,000 (as of the latest estimates)
  • Zip Codes: 30534
  • Latitude: 34.3179° N
  • Longitude: 84.0490° W

Location and History

Chestatee is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Forsyth County, near the shores of Lake Lanier. The area takes its name from the Chestatee River, which flows into Lake Lanier and has historically been central to the community’s identity. Chestatee was originally a farming and milling area, with its economy focused on agriculture and timber. The construction of Lake Lanier in the 1950s transformed the region, bringing new recreational opportunities and residential development. Today, Chestatee is known for its picturesque setting along the lake and its close-knit community, making it a desirable location for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle with easy access to outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Chestatee is served by the Forsyth County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as North Forsyth High School and Chestatee Elementary School. The community is known for its proximity to Lake Lanier, one of the largest and most popular lakes in Georgia, offering boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports. Chestatee Golf Club is a notable landmark, featuring a golf course with scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The community also hosts several local events throughout the year, including lake clean-ups and neighborhood gatherings, which help to foster a strong sense of community and stewardship of the natural environment. Chestatee’s blend of natural beauty and community spirit makes it a unique and attractive place to live in Forsyth County.

Silver City

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: Not officially incorporated as a city
  • Population: Approx. 1,200 (as of the latest estimates)
  • Zip Codes: 30028
  • Latitude: 34.3120° N
  • Longitude: 84.1400° W

Location and History

Silver City is an unincorporated community located in the northern part of Forsyth County. The area was historically a mining and agricultural community, with its name likely derived from the silver-colored mica found in the area, though the community was primarily known for farming. Over the years, Silver City has maintained its rural character, with large tracts of farmland and forested areas defining its landscape. As Forsyth County has grown, Silver City has seen some residential development, though it remains one of the quieter, more rural parts of the county.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Silver City is part of the Forsyth County School District, with students attending schools such as North Forsyth Middle School and North Forsyth High School. The community is close to several recreational areas, including Sawnee Mountain Preserve, which offers hiking trails and panoramic views of the surrounding region. Silver City Baptist Church is a key landmark in the community, serving as a gathering place for residents and hosting various local events. The nearby Etowah River provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Silver City’s annual events, such as church festivals and community picnics, reflect the area’s strong sense of tradition and community, making it a welcoming place for those who appreciate rural life.

Map of Cities in Forsyth County, GA

Map of Cities in Forsyth County, GA