Cities and Towns in Grayson County, Texas

Founded in 1846, Grayson County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Grayson County was formed from Fannin County. The city of Sherman is the county seat. With FIPS code of 181, Grayson County has a population of 139,336 and area of 934 square miles (2,419 km²).

List of all cities in Grayson County, TX alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bells, TX 75414 903/430
Collinsville, TX 76233 903/430
Denison, TX 75020 903/430
75021 903/430
Dorchester, TX 75459 903/430
Fink, TX 75076 903/430
Gordonville, TX 76245 903/430
Gunter, TX 75058 903/430
Howe, TX 75459 903/430
Pottsboro, TX 75076 903/430
Sadler, TX 76264 903/430
Sherman, TX 75090 903/430
75091 903/430
75092 903/430
Southmayd, TX 76268 903/430
Tioga, TX 76271 254
Tom Bean, TX 75489 903/430
Van Alstyne, TX 75495 903/430
Whitesboro, TX 76273 903/430
Whitewright, TX 75491 903/430

Major Cities and Towns in Grayson County, Texas

1. Sherman, Texas

Location and History

Sherman, the county seat of Grayson County, is located in the northeastern part of Texas, approximately 70 miles north of Dallas. The city was founded in 1846 and named after General Sidney Sherman, a hero of the Texas Revolution. Sherman developed rapidly in the late 19th century as a railroad hub and quickly became a center of commerce and industry for the region. The city’s growth was fueled by its strategic location along the Texas and Pacific Railway, and it became a vital stop for both freight and passengers traveling between Dallas and points further west. As the economy diversified, Sherman became known for its cotton production, manufacturing, and later, oil production during the 20th century. Sherman played an important role during World War II, with the establishment of the Perrin Field Army Air Base nearby. Today, Sherman is a modern city with a rich historical legacy, serving as a commercial and cultural hub for Grayson County.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sherman is served by the Sherman Independent School District, which includes Sherman High School, a well-regarded institution offering a variety of academic and extracurricular programs. The city is also home to Austin College, a private liberal arts college that is one of the oldest in Texas. In terms of landmarks, Sherman boasts several historic buildings and districts, including the Grayson County Courthouse, a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture, and the historic downtown area, which is home to numerous 19th-century buildings and antique shops. Another important landmark is the Red River Railroad Museum, which tells the story of Sherman’s railroad history and its impact on the region. The Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge, located just outside the city, offers outdoor activities such as bird watching, hiking, and fishing, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.

City Details:

  • Area: 38.2 square miles
  • Population: 45,000+ (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 75090, 75091
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.6357° N, 96.6102° W

2. Denison, Texas

Location and History

Denison is located just to the north of Sherman, along the Red River, which marks the border between Texas and Oklahoma. Founded in 1872 as a railroad town, Denison was named after the Denison family, who were key figures in the development of the Texas and Pacific Railway. The city grew rapidly in the late 19th century, benefiting from its position as a major transportation hub for both the railroad and river trade. Denison’s development was further spurred by the discovery of oil in the early 20th century, which attracted both workers and businesses. The city is historically significant as the birthplace of President Dwight D. Eisenhower, with a museum dedicated to his life and legacy. Denison’s economy diversified over the years, with manufacturing, agriculture, and retail forming the backbone of the city’s economic base. Today, Denison is a vibrant, mid-sized city that balances its historical roots with modern growth.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Denison is served by the Denison Independent School District, which includes Denison High School, known for its strong academic programs and athletic teams. The city is also home to Grayson College, a community college offering a range of academic and vocational programs. Denison’s most notable landmark is the Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site, which honors the life of Dwight D. Eisenhower and includes a museum and the home where he was born. Other key landmarks in the city include the Denison Heritage Museum, which showcases the history of the region, and the beautiful Eisenhower State Park, located on Lake Texoma. Denison is also known for its charming downtown area, with antique shops, boutiques, and local restaurants, making it a popular destination for visitors looking to explore the city’s history and culture.

City Details:

  • Area: 35.1 square miles
  • Population: 25,000+ (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 75020, 75021
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.7587° N, 96.5410° W

3. Whitesboro, Texas

Location and History

Whitesboro is located in the central part of Grayson County, about 15 miles west of Sherman. The town was founded in 1849 and named after its first postmaster, Ambrose White. Whitesboro’s location along the Butterfield Overland Mail route made it an important stop for travelers in the 19th century. The town was a key point for trade and transportation, and its economy was initially driven by agriculture, particularly cotton farming. Whitesboro’s early years were marked by steady growth, and it eventually became incorporated in 1874. Over time, the town’s economy diversified, and it became a center for local industry, particularly dairy farming and agriculture. Whitesboro has maintained its small-town atmosphere while growing into a suburban community with a focus on agriculture and local commerce.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Whitesboro is served by the Whitesboro Independent School District, which includes Whitesboro High School. The district is known for its commitment to academic excellence and offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students. In terms of landmarks, Whitesboro is home to the historic Whitesboro Cemetery, where many of the town’s early settlers are buried. The town also celebrates its agricultural roots, with local events like the Whitesboro Rodeo, which draws visitors from across the region. The nearby Lake Texoma offers recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and camping, providing residents and visitors with access to outdoor activities. Whitesboro also has a close-knit community with local parks and sporting facilities, making it an ideal place for families.

City Details:

  • Area: 2.0 square miles
  • Population: 4,000+ (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 76273
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.7126° N, 96.9981° W

4. Collin, Texas

Location and History

Collin is a small community located in the southeastern part of Grayson County, near the city of Denison. It was founded in the late 1800s and, like many towns in this part of Texas, grew as a result of the railroad expansion and the development of agriculture. Collin is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere, and its residents have historically depended on farming and ranching for their livelihoods. Over the years, the population of Collin has remained small, and the town maintains its agricultural character. As a small unincorporated community, Collin does not have the same level of development or urban infrastructure as larger cities in Grayson County, but it continues to serve as a peaceful residential area for families and individuals working in nearby cities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Collin does not have its own school district. However, children from the area attend schools in neighboring towns such as Denison or Sherman. As an unincorporated community, Collin does not have a wealth of commercial landmarks, but it is surrounded by the picturesque landscapes of the Texas countryside. Nearby landmarks include the historical buildings in Denison and Sherman, both of which are within driving distance of Collin. The area’s rural nature is also one of its defining features, with vast open spaces, ranches, and farmland, making it an ideal location for outdoor activities like hunting, fishing, and hiking.

City Details:

  • Area: Less than 1 square mile
  • Population: Fewer than 100
  • Zip Codes: 75020 (shared with Denison)
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.5613° N, 96.6300° W

5. Sadler, Texas

Location and History

Sadler is located in the southern part of Grayson County, approximately 15 miles southeast of Sherman. The town was established in the late 1800s, and it was named after one of its early settlers, the Sadler family. Sadler’s development was tied to the growth of agriculture in the region, particularly cotton farming and cattle ranching. The town was incorporated in 1914 and became a center for local trade and commerce. Today, Sadler remains a small, rural community, though its proximity to larger cities like Sherman and Gainesville provides residents with access to more urban amenities. The town maintains its agricultural roots, with farming and ranching continuing to be important parts of the local economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sadler is served by the S&S Consolidated Independent School District, which includes S&S High School and Middle School. The district is known for its community-oriented approach to education and offers a variety of programs for students. Sadler does not have major commercial landmarks, but its rural setting provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. The town is located near Lake Texoma, one of the largest reservoirs in Texas, offering additional recreational opportunities such as boating, camping, and fishing. Sadler’s proximity to larger cities like Sherman also allows residents to take advantage of the shopping, dining, and entertainment options available in those areas.

City Details:

  • Area: 1.1 square miles
  • Population: 500+ (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 76264
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.5431° N, 96.9203° W