Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Kentucky
Founded in 1794, Franklin County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Franklin County was formed from Mercer County, Shelby County, and Woodford County. The city of Frankfort is the county seat. With FIPS code of 73, Franklin County has a population of 51,682 and area of 210 square miles (544 km²).
List of all cities in Franklin County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Division of Sales Use Tax, KY | 40619 | 502 |
| Frankfort, KY | 40601 | 502 |
| 40602 | 502 | |
| 40603 | 502 | |
| 40604 | 502 | |
| 40618 | 502 | |
| 40619 | 502 | |
| 40620 | 502 | |
| 40621 | 502 | |
| 40622 | 502 | |
| Hatton, KY | 40601 | 502 |
| Ky Dept Human Resources, KY | 40621 | 502 |
| Ky Dept of Revenue, KY | 40618 | 502 |
| 40620 | 502 | |
| Ky Dept of Transportation, KY | 40622 | 502 |
Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Kentucky
Frankfort
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 15.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 28,000 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40601, 40602, 40604
- Latitude: 38.2009° N
- Longitude: 84.8733° W
Location and History
Frankfort, the capital of Kentucky, is located in the heart of Franklin County along the Kentucky River, between Louisville and Lexington. The city was established in 1786 and was named after pioneer Stephen Frank, who was killed in a skirmish near the river crossing. Frankfort was chosen as Kentucky’s capital due to its central location and access to the Kentucky River, which made it an important transportation and trade hub in the early 19th century. The city’s economy grew with the development of government institutions, distilleries, and manufacturing industries. Today, Frankfort is a blend of historical and governmental significance, housing the state legislature, the governor’s mansion, and numerous state agencies. The city also plays a key role in Kentucky’s bourbon production.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Frankfort is served by Franklin County Public Schools and Frankfort Independent Schools, with institutions such as Franklin County High School, Western Hills High School, and Frankfort High School. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Kentucky State Capitol, known for its Beaux-Arts architecture, and the Governor’s Mansion. The Thomas D. Clark Center for Kentucky History offers insight into the state’s rich history. Frankfort Cemetery, which overlooks the city, contains the graves of notable Kentuckians, including Daniel Boone. The city’s proximity to Buffalo Trace Distillery, one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the U.S., also highlights Frankfort’s connection to Kentucky’s bourbon heritage.
Forks of Elkhorn
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 2.0 square miles
- Population: Around 1,600 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40601
- Latitude: 38.2406° N
- Longitude: 84.8164° W
Location and History
Forks of Elkhorn is a small, unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Franklin County, near the confluence of North Elkhorn Creek and South Elkhorn Creek. It is approximately 7 miles from downtown Frankfort and developed in the late 18th century as a rural farming community. Forks of Elkhorn’s name reflects its geographical position at the meeting point of two creeks, which have historically provided water resources for agriculture. The area grew modestly over the years, maintaining its rural character while becoming a desirable residential area due to its proximity to Frankfort and nearby cities like Georgetown and Lexington.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students in Forks of Elkhorn attend schools within the Franklin County Public School system, including Elkhorn Elementary and Franklin County High School. One of the community’s key landmarks is the historic Forks of Elkhorn Baptist Church, founded in 1788, which stands as one of the oldest Baptist congregations in Kentucky. The surrounding landscape of creeks and rolling hills is another defining feature of the area, offering scenic views and outdoor recreational opportunities. The proximity to the Elkhorn Creek also makes the area a popular spot for fishing and canoeing, providing a natural retreat for residents and visitors alike.
Bridgeport
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 0.4 square miles
- Population: Around 500 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40601
- Latitude: 38.1889° N
- Longitude: 84.9550° W
Location and History
Bridgeport is a small, unincorporated community in western Franklin County, located just a few miles from Frankfort. The town developed in the 19th century, primarily as a rural agricultural area. Bridgeport’s location near the Kentucky River and its fertile lands made it ideal for farming, with tobacco and corn being the main crops. Over time, Bridgeport remained a small, close-knit community with a strong agricultural heritage. Its proximity to Frankfort allowed it to maintain a balance between rural charm and access to urban amenities. While Bridgeport has not experienced significant growth, it continues to serve as a peaceful residential area with deep historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bridgeport is part of the Franklin County Public School system, with students attending schools in Frankfort, such as Bridgeport Elementary and Western Hills High School. One of the key landmarks in Bridgeport is the historic Bridgeport Christian Church, which has served as a central part of the community since the late 19th century. The surrounding farmland is another prominent feature, reflecting the town’s agricultural history. The nearby Kentucky River also offers opportunities for fishing and boating, making it a quiet and scenic area for those who appreciate nature. Additionally, Bridgeport’s location along U.S. Route 60 provides easy access to the cultural and historical landmarks of nearby Frankfort.
Bald Knob
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles
- Population: Around 300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40601
- Latitude: 38.3262° N
- Longitude: 84.9567° W
Location and History
Bald Knob is a small, rural community located in the northern part of Franklin County, about 10 miles from Frankfort. The town’s name is derived from a prominent hill or “knob” in the area, which provides a scenic overlook of the surrounding landscape. Bald Knob was settled in the 19th century and has long been associated with farming, particularly livestock and crop production. Its location in the Kentucky hills gives it a unique rural charm that has remained largely unchanged over the decades. Although the town is small, it has maintained a strong sense of community and rural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bald Knob is served by the Franklin County Public Schools, with students typically attending schools in Frankfort, such as Peaks Mill Elementary and Franklin County High School. One of the community’s most notable landmarks is Bald Knob Church, which has been a focal point of religious and social life in the area since the 1800s. The scenic hills surrounding Bald Knob offer opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of rural Kentucky. Additionally, Bald Knob is near Cove Spring Park in Frankfort, providing more recreational options for residents. The town’s peaceful, rural atmosphere makes it an attractive place for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle within easy reach of the state capital.
