Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Washington
Founded in 1883, Franklin County is one of 39 counties in the state of Washington. Historically, Franklin County was formed from Whitman County. The city of Pasco is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Franklin County has a population of 96,749 and area of 1,242 square miles (3,217 km²).
List of all cities in Franklin County, WA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Basin City, WA | 99343 | 509 |
| Connell, WA | 99326 | 509 |
| Eltopia, WA | 99330 | 509 |
| Kahlotus, WA | 99335 | 509 |
| Mesa, WA | 99343 | 509 |
| Pasco, WA | 99301 | 509 |
| 99302 | 509 | |
| Tri Cities, WA | 99302 | 509 |
Major Cities and Towns in Franklin County, Washington
1. Pasco
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 34.14 square miles
- Population: Approx. 77,000
- Zip Codes: 99301, 99302, 99303
- Latitude: 46.2405° N
- Longitude: 119.1002° W
Location and History:
Pasco is located in the southeastern part of Franklin County, along the Columbia River, at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers. The city is part of the Tri-Cities metropolitan area, which includes Richland and Kennewick. Pasco’s origins trace back to the late 1800s, when it was initially a railroad town. In 1883, the Northern Pacific Railway built a line through the area, sparking the town’s early development as a transportation hub. The region’s fertile soil and proximity to the river allowed Pasco to become an agricultural center, especially known for its fruit orchards and crop production. Over the years, the city grew rapidly, thanks to the expansion of agriculture, the development of industry, and the proximity to the Hanford Nuclear Reservation in nearby Richland. Today, Pasco is a thriving city with a diverse economy centered on agriculture, commerce, and trade.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Pasco is served by the Pasco School District, which includes a variety of schools such as Pasco High School, known for its strong academic performance and athletics programs. The city is home to Columbia Basin College, a community college that offers a range of degree programs and vocational training. Key landmarks in Pasco include the Sacajawea State Park, a historic site located at the confluence of the Snake and Columbia Rivers, which commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition. The Tri-Cities Airport is another important feature, connecting Pasco to larger cities across the region. Additionally, Pasco’s proximity to agricultural fields and wineries in the region makes it a gateway for agritourism, with opportunities for wine tasting and farm tours. The city also hosts the annual Pasco Farmer’s Market, which showcases local produce and crafts, attracting visitors from across the region.
2. Connell
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: Approx. 5,000
- Zip Codes: 99326
- Latitude: 46.6533° N
- Longitude: 118.8855° W
Location and History:
Connell is a small city located in the central part of Franklin County, roughly 30 miles north of Pasco. The town was founded in the early 1900s, primarily as a railroad settlement. Connell grew rapidly due to the construction of the Northern Pacific Railway line, which helped connect the town to other parts of the state. The town’s economy was initially based on agriculture, with wheat and grain farming as the primary industries. Over time, Connell developed into a center for food processing and agriculture-related industries, including potato farming. The city remains a key part of the county’s agricultural sector and serves as a support hub for the surrounding farming communities. In recent decades, Connell has experienced modest growth, with an increase in residential development and services catering to nearby agricultural workers.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Connell is served by the Connell School District, which operates a high school, middle school, and several elementary schools. The district emphasizes both academic and extracurricular programs, with strong sports teams and a focus on community involvement. Major landmarks in Connell include the Franklin County Historical Museum, which offers insights into the town’s early history and its agricultural roots. The town is also home to several public parks, including the Connell City Park, which features sports fields, a playground, and picnic areas. Connell’s location in the heart of Washington’s agricultural region makes it an ideal starting point for farm tours, particularly for visitors interested in grain and potato farming. The city is also near the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge, which offers opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring the region’s natural beauty.
3. Basin City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.4 square miles
- Population: Approx. 1,000
- Zip Codes: 99343
- Latitude: 46.3073° N
- Longitude: 119.1679° W
Location and History:
Basin City is a small, rural community located in the southern part of Franklin County, near the city of Pasco. It was established in the early 20th century and named for its location in the region’s agricultural basin, where the fertile soils are ideal for farming. Basin City’s economy has historically been driven by agriculture, particularly wheat, potatoes, and other crops, with irrigation from nearby rivers and canals supporting the local farms. Over the years, Basin City has remained a close-knit community, primarily focused on serving the surrounding rural farming population. The town’s small size and quiet rural lifestyle make it an appealing place for those looking for a more tranquil environment while still being close to the urban amenities of the Tri-Cities area.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Basin City is part of the Mesa School District, which serves the surrounding agricultural areas, with local schools providing both academic and extracurricular opportunities. As a small, rural community, Basin City does not have major commercial or cultural landmarks, but it is known for its scenic agricultural landscape. The nearby Columbia Basin Irrigation District plays a significant role in Basin City’s economy, providing water for local farms. Basin City is also located near the Wahluke Slope, a region known for its vineyards and wineries, making it a hub for agricultural tourism. Outdoor recreation opportunities abound, particularly in the nearby Columbia River and Hanford Reach National Monument, which offers hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching.
4. Eltopia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approx. 300
- Zip Codes: 99330
- Latitude: 46.4219° N
- Longitude: 119.0333° W
Location and History:
Eltopia is a small, unincorporated community located in the central part of Franklin County. Originally founded in the early 20th century as an agricultural settlement, Eltopia is primarily a farming community. The area has always been known for its wheat, corn, and potato production, supported by irrigation systems that bring water from the nearby Columbia River. Like many rural communities in the area, Eltopia grew as part of the larger agricultural economy, providing services to local farmers and serving as a small hub for the surrounding region. The community remains small but plays a crucial role in the region’s agricultural sector, providing support to the many farms in the area.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Eltopia is served by the Pasco School District, with children attending schools in nearby Pasco. Because it is a small, rural community, there are no significant cultural landmarks or large commercial centers in Eltopia. However, it is situated near several key natural landmarks, including the Columbia River and its surrounding agricultural landscapes. Visitors to Eltopia can enjoy the peaceful rural environment, with access to farm tours and outdoor activities like birdwatching and hiking along the Columbia River. The community is also near the Snake River and the Saddle Mountain National Wildlife Refuge, which offers further opportunities for outdoor recreation.
5. Kahlotus
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude:
- Area: 0.4 square miles
- Population: Approx. 200
- Zip Codes: 99335
- Latitude: 46.5883° N
- Longitude: 118.7383° W
Location and History:
Kahlotus is a small town located in the southwestern corner of Franklin County, near the border of Adams County. The town was originally settled as an agricultural community in the early 1900s and grew due to the development of nearby irrigation projects that supported the region’s farming industry. Named after a Native American word, Kahlotus has remained a quiet rural town, with its economy focused on agriculture, including wheat, potatoes, and alfalfa farming. The town also became a stop along the railroad in the early 20th century, which further spurred its growth. Today, Kahlotus remains a small, peaceful town with a modest population, offering a rural lifestyle while being within driving distance of larger cities like Pasco.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Kahlotus is served by the Kahlotus School District, which includes a small K-12 school. The school is central to community activities, with both academic and extracurricular programs offered to students. Kahlotus is also located near several agricultural landmarks, including nearby farms and ranches that produce crops such as wheat and potatoes. One of the key landmarks in the area is the Kahlotus City Park, which provides a space for local recreation and community events. The surrounding landscape is marked by rolling hills and farmland, which are a defining characteristic of the region. While Kahlotus is a small and largely residential community, it offers access to outdoor activities, particularly in the nearby areas of the Columbia River and the Lower Snake River, which are known for boating, fishing, and hiking.
