Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Idaho
Founded in 1913, Franklin County is one of 44 counties in the state of Idaho. Historically, Franklin County was Oneida County. The city of Preston is the county seat. With FIPS code of 41, Franklin County has a population of 14,666 and area of 666 square miles (1,725 km²).
List of all cities in Franklin County, ID alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clifton, ID | 83228 | 208 |
| Dayton, ID | 83232 | 208 |
| Franklin, ID | 83237 | 208 |
| Grace, ID | 83283 | 208 |
| Linrose, ID | 83286 | 208 |
| Preston, ID | 83263 | 208 |
| Thatcher, ID | 83283 | 208 |
| Weston, ID | 83286 | 208 |
Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Idaho
Preston
Area and Population
- Area: 6.65 square miles
- Population: Approximately 5,354
- Zip Codes: 83263
- Latitude: 42.0969° N
- Longitude: 111.8769° W
Location and History
Preston is the largest city and county seat of Franklin County, located in southeastern Idaho near the Utah border. The city was established in 1866 by Mormon pioneers and was named after Preston, England, in honor of the hometown of one of the early settlers. Preston grew as an agricultural community, with its economy historically based on farming and ranching. The city gained national attention as the filming location for the popular movie “Napoleon Dynamite,” which has since become a cultural touchstone for the town. Preston is known for its strong community spirit, scenic surroundings, and role as a regional hub for commerce and education in Franklin County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Preston is served by the Preston School District, with Preston High School and Oakwood Elementary School being key educational institutions. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Franklin County Historical Society Museum, which showcases the area’s pioneer history, and the Worm Creek Opera House, a historic theater that hosts community events and performances. The Bear River Massacre Site, located nearby, is a significant historical landmark that commemorates the 1863 conflict between the U.S. Army and the Northwestern Shoshone. Preston’s proximity to outdoor recreational areas, such as Bear River and the surrounding mountains, offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of southeastern Idaho.
Franklin
Area and Population
- Area: 0.73 square miles
- Population: Approximately 993
- Zip Codes: 83237
- Latitude: 42.0169° N
- Longitude: 111.8019° W
Location and History
Franklin is a small town located just north of the Utah border in Franklin County, Idaho. It holds the distinction of being the first permanent settlement in Idaho, established in 1860 by Mormon pioneers. Named after Franklin D. Richards, an apostle of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church), the town played a crucial role in the early development of the region. Franklin served as an important agricultural center, with early settlers farming the fertile land and establishing the town as a hub for trade and commerce. Today, Franklin maintains its historic charm, with a focus on preserving its pioneer heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Franklin is part of the Preston School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby Preston. The town is known for its historical significance, with several landmarks commemorating its pioneer past. The Franklin Pioneer Cemetery is one such site, where many of the town’s original settlers are buried. The Franklin Relic Hall, operated by the Idaho State Historical Society, houses artifacts and exhibits related to the town’s history as Idaho’s first settlement. Franklin’s location near the Bear River and the surrounding mountains also provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, making it a picturesque and historically rich community.
Weston
Area and Population
- Area: 0.91 square miles
- Population: Approximately 469
- Zip Codes: 83286
- Latitude: 42.0361° N
- Longitude: 111.9778° W
Location and History
Weston is a small town located in the western part of Franklin County, Idaho. It was established in 1865 by Mormon settlers and was originally known as “West Port” due to its location as a western gateway to the Cache Valley. The town was later renamed Weston, reflecting its position on the western edge of the region. Weston developed as an agricultural community, with farming and ranching forming the backbone of its economy. The town has retained its rural character and small-town charm, offering a peaceful environment for residents who value a close-knit community and a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Weston is part of the West Side School District, with students attending West Side High School and Harold B. Lee Elementary School in nearby Dayton. The town is known for its agricultural heritage and its scenic setting in the Cache Valley. Notable landmarks include the Weston Reservoir, a popular spot for fishing and picnicking, and the historic Weston Town Hall, which serves as a community gathering place. Weston’s proximity to the Bear River and the surrounding mountains offers residents access to outdoor recreational activities, including hiking, hunting, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.
Dayton
Area and Population
- Area: 0.50 square miles
- Population: Approximately 474
- Zip Codes: 83232
- Latitude: 42.1069° N
- Longitude: 111.9931° W
Location and History
Dayton is a small town located in Franklin County, Idaho, just north of the Utah border. The town was established in 1865 by Mormon pioneers and was named after Dayton, Ohio, reflecting the settlers’ origins. Dayton developed as an agricultural community, with its economy based on farming, particularly the cultivation of wheat, barley, and hay. The town’s rural setting and strong community ties have allowed it to maintain a quiet, small-town atmosphere, making it an attractive place for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle close to nature.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dayton is part of the West Side School District, with West Side High School and Harold B. Lee Elementary School serving the local population. The town is known for its family-friendly environment and its community-oriented events, such as the annual Dayton Pioneer Days celebration, which honors the town’s pioneer heritage with parades, games, and festivities. Notable landmarks include the Dayton Historic District, where several original buildings from the town’s early days are preserved, and the nearby Bear River, which offers opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the region. Dayton’s close proximity to larger towns like Preston provides residents with access to additional amenities while preserving its rural charm.
Clifton
Area and Population
- Area: 1.00 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300
- Zip Codes: 83228
- Latitude: 42.1814° N
- Longitude: 112.0108° W
Location and History
Clifton is a small town located in the northeastern part of Franklin County, Idaho. The town was established in the late 19th century by Mormon pioneers and was named after the surrounding cliffs that characterize the local landscape. Clifton developed as an agricultural community, with farming and livestock raising forming the foundation of its economy. The town has remained small and rural, with a focus on maintaining its agricultural traditions and providing a close-knit community atmosphere for its residents.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clifton is part of the West Side School District, with students attending schools in nearby Dayton. The town is known for its peaceful rural setting and its strong sense of community. Notable landmarks in Clifton include the historic Clifton Ward Church, a beautiful example of early LDS architecture, and the surrounding farmland, which offers a picturesque backdrop for the town. The nearby Twin Lakes Reservoir provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation, making Clifton an ideal location for those who appreciate a quiet, rural lifestyle in a scenic environment.
