Cities and Towns in Frio County, Texas

Founded in 1858, Frio County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Frio County was formed from Atascosa County, Bexar County and Uvalde County. The city of Pearsall is the county seat. With FIPS code of 163, Frio County has a population of 18,436 and area of 1,133 square miles (2,934 km²).

List of all cities in Frio County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bigfoot, TX 78005 830
Derby, TX 78017 830
Dilley, TX 78017 830
Divot, TX 78017 830
Frio Town, TX 78061 830
Moore, TX 78057 830
Pearsall, TX 78061 830

Major Cities and Towns in Frio County, Texas

Frio County, located in South Texas, is known for its rich history, agricultural significance, and proximity to key landmarks in the region. The county’s cities and towns reflect its diverse cultural heritage, from early Spanish settlers to its agricultural development in the 20th century. Below are the major cities and towns in Frio County, Texas.


Pearsall

General Information

  • Area: 2.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 9,000 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Code: 78061
  • Latitude/Longitude: 28.8847° N / 99.1231° W

City Location and History

Pearsall is the county seat of Frio County and is located in the southern part of the county, just off U.S. Route 81, making it a key transportation hub. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after James Pearsall, a prominent landowner and rancher. Pearsall initially grew as a railroad town in the late 1800s, benefiting from the construction of the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway, which connected the region to larger markets. Agriculture, particularly ranching and farming, became the economic backbone of the area. In the 20th century, the town’s population grew, and it expanded into a regional center for commerce and services. Over time, Pearsall developed into a more modern city while retaining its agricultural roots. As of today, Pearsall has diversified its economy, with manufacturing, retail, and energy industries playing key roles alongside traditional farming and ranching. The city continues to be a vital center for trade in Frio County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pearsall is served by the Pearsall Independent School District, which includes Pearsall High School, Pearsall Junior High School, and Pearsall Elementary School. The schools are well-regarded for their academic and extracurricular programs, with Pearsall High School particularly known for its sports teams, including football and basketball. Major landmarks in Pearsall include the Frio County Courthouse, an historic building that serves as the seat of county government. Another prominent site is the Pearsall City Park, offering a variety of recreational facilities such as sports fields, picnic areas, and walking trails. The Frio Canyon, located just outside the city, is another natural landmark known for hiking, fishing, and outdoor activities. Pearsall also hosts the annual Pearsall Rodeo and Fiesta, which celebrate the town’s agricultural heritage and offer a showcase for local culture, food, and music.


Dilley

General Information

  • Area: 2.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,000
  • Zip Code: 78017
  • Latitude/Longitude: 28.6675° N / 99.1301° W

City Location and History

Dilley is a small town located in the western part of Frio County, along U.S. Route 85. It was founded in the late 19th century and named after H.H. Dilley, a railroad executive who played a key role in the development of the town. The city initially grew due to the expansion of the railroad, which helped bring economic prosperity to the area by connecting it with larger trade centers like San Antonio and Laredo. Like many towns in South Texas, Dilley’s early economy was based on agriculture, including cattle ranching and cotton farming. The town’s population was relatively small through the 20th century, but Dilley began to experience gradual growth with the establishment of local businesses and agricultural enterprises. As of today, Dilley remains a quiet, rural community, known for its strong ties to the land and its agricultural history. The town has recently seen some growth due to the Dilley Independent School District and proximity to energy exploration projects in the region.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Dilley is served by the Dilley Independent School District, which includes Dilley High School, Dilley Junior High School, and Dilley Elementary School. These schools offer a variety of programs in both academics and sports, with the high school having a particularly strong football team. Major landmarks in Dilley include the Dilley Community Center, which serves as a venue for local events, gatherings, and celebrations. Another notable site is the Dilley City Park, where families can enjoy picnicking, sports, and outdoor recreation. The Dilley Rodeo Grounds are another important landmark, hosting annual rodeo events and drawing visitors from surrounding areas. The town is also near Devil’s River, a scenic area known for its clear waters, fishing opportunities, and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for nature lovers.


Bigfoot

General Information

  • Area: 3.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 400
  • Zip Code: 78005
  • Latitude/Longitude: 28.8774° N / 99.1311° W

City Location and History

Bigfoot is a very small town located in the southeastern part of Frio County, near the Frio River. The origins of Bigfoot date back to the late 19th century, and the town is named after the Bigfoot Creek, a nearby waterway. The area was originally settled by ranchers and farmers who took advantage of the fertile land and access to water sources for cattle and crop cultivation. Bigfoot’s economy has always been centered around agriculture, with livestock and farming being the primary industries. Over the years, the town has remained small, with a population that fluctuates between 300 and 500 residents. Despite its size, Bigfoot holds a unique place in the history of Frio County, and its rural charm remains an integral part of the community’s identity. Today, Bigfoot continues to be a peaceful, agricultural-focused community with a deep connection to its history and the surrounding natural environment.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bigfoot is served by the Bigfoot Independent School District, with Bigfoot High School being the main school in the town. The school provides academic and athletic programs for students in the area, and it is known for its tight-knit school community. A significant landmark in Bigfoot is the Bigfoot Community Center, which is used for local gatherings, celebrations, and social events. The Frio River is one of the town’s natural landmarks, providing opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Bigfoot is also near the Frio River Canyon, an area of scenic beauty that is popular for hiking and wildlife watching. The surrounding farmland and open landscapes are key features of the area, offering a glimpse into the town’s agricultural roots.


Moore

General Information

  • Area: 1.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 100
  • Zip Code: 78057
  • Latitude/Longitude: 28.6581° N / 99.1137° W

City Location and History

Moore is a tiny community located in the northeastern part of Frio County. The town was established in the late 19th century and named after John Moore, an early settler and rancher. Moore’s economy was traditionally centered around farming, cattle ranching, and agriculture, which is still a hallmark of the town today. Despite its small size, Moore is an integral part of the county’s agricultural landscape, serving as a farming hub for the surrounding region. Like many small towns in South Texas, Moore has never experienced large-scale urbanization, and its population has remained relatively stable over the years. The town remains a quiet and rural enclave where residents primarily engage in agricultural and ranching activities. Moore’s close-knit community is reflected in its local events, such as its annual fairs and community gatherings.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Moore does not have its own independent school district; students typically attend schools in the nearby towns of Pearsall and Dilley. However, Moore Community Center serves as a central meeting place for the residents of the town. A key landmark in Moore is the Moore Baptist Church, which has played a central role in the town’s social and religious life since its founding. The surrounding farmland is another prominent feature, with vast fields of crops and grazing land for cattle. Moore is also located near the Frio River, which offers recreational opportunities for residents and visitors, including fishing and hiking. The town’s rural charm and proximity to natural landmarks make it a peaceful and scenic place to live.