Cities and Towns in Grundy County, Tennessee
Founded in 1844, Grundy County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Grundy County was formed from Coffee, Warren and Franklin counties. The city of Altamont is the county seat. With FIPS code of 61, Grundy County has a population of 13,622 and area of 361 square miles (935 km²).
List of all cities in Grundy County, TN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Altamont, TN | 37301 | 931 |
| Beersheba Springs, TN | 37305 | 931 |
| Coalmont, TN | 37313 | 931 |
| Gruetli, TN | 37339 | 931 |
| Gruetli Laager, TN | 37339 | 931 |
| Laager, TN | 37339 | 931 |
| Monteagle, TN | 37356 | 931 |
| Palmer, TN | 37365 | 931 |
| Pelham, TN | 37366 | 931 |
| Tracy City, TN | 37387 | 931 |
Major Cities and Towns in Grundy County, Tennessee
Altamont
Overview
- Area: Approximately 4.9 square miles
- Population: 1,045 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 37301
- Coordinates: 35.4265° N, 85.7255° W
Location and History
Altamont, the county seat of Grundy County, is located atop the Cumberland Plateau, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Established in the mid-19th century, Altamont was named for its elevated position, with “alta” meaning “high” in Latin. The town became the county seat in 1848 due to its central location and accessibility for the rural community. Over the years, Altamont has remained a small, close-knit community, with agriculture and local government as its economic mainstays.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Altamont Elementary School serves the educational needs of local children. Landmarks include the historic Grundy County Courthouse, a centerpiece of the town, and Stone Door Natural Area in the nearby South Cumberland State Park, which features breathtaking views, hiking trails, and a massive cliffside rock formation known as the “Stone Door.” Altamont’s peaceful setting and proximity to outdoor attractions make it a focal point for nature enthusiasts.
Tracy City
Overview
- Area: Approximately 4.6 square miles
- Population: 1,346 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 37387
- Coordinates: 35.2623° N, 85.7322° W
Location and History
Tracy City, located in the northern part of Grundy County, was established in the mid-19th century as a coal mining town. The Nashville and Chattanooga Railroad brought rapid growth, transforming Tracy City into an industrial hub. Named after Samuel Franklin Tracy, an official with the Sewanee Mining Company, the town flourished during the coal boom but adapted to a quieter lifestyle as mining declined. Today, Tracy City celebrates its rich history and small-town charm.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tracy City Elementary School serves local students, with older students attending schools in neighboring towns. Notable landmarks include the Dutch Maid Bakery, Tennessee’s oldest family-owned bakery, and the Grundy Lakes Historic District, which offers scenic lakes and remnants of the area’s mining history. The town is also a gateway to the Fiery Gizzard Trail, a renowned hiking destination with waterfalls, rock formations, and breathtaking views.
Monteagle
Overview
- Area: Approximately 8.3 square miles
- Population: 1,272 (2020 census, includes parts in Marion and Franklin Counties)
- ZIP Codes: 37356
- Coordinates: 35.2416° N, 85.8350° W
Location and History
Monteagle is a picturesque town straddling Grundy, Marion, and Franklin Counties, located at the top of the Cumberland Plateau. Established in the 19th century as a retreat for travelers along the Dixie Highway, Monteagle became famous for its cooler climate and scenic views. The town gained national recognition with the establishment of the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly in 1882, a Chautauqua-style community promoting education, religion, and recreation.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Monteagle Elementary School serves the town’s educational needs. Landmarks include the Monteagle Sunday School Assembly, featuring historic cottages, a chapel, and a cultural center. South Cumberland State Park, located nearby, offers outdoor activities like hiking, camping, and birdwatching. The annual Monteagle Mountain Market for Arts and Crafts attracts visitors with handmade goods and regional products, highlighting the town’s artistic and community spirit.
Coalmont
Overview
- Area: Approximately 4.7 square miles
- Population: 841 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 37313
- Coordinates: 35.3407° N, 85.7131° W
Location and History
Coalmont, located in central Grundy County, was established as a coal mining community in the late 19th century. Its name reflects its origins, combining “coal” for the town’s primary industry and “mount” for its location on the Cumberland Plateau. Coalmont served as a hub for miners and their families, with coal mining driving the local economy for decades. While mining has diminished, Coalmont remains a quiet residential town with deep historical roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Coalmont Elementary School is a central institution for the community’s younger residents. Landmarks include the nearby Savage Gulf State Natural Area, part of South Cumberland State Park, which offers stunning geological features, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Coalmont also retains historic sites that reflect its coal mining heritage, providing a glimpse into the town’s past. Community events and outdoor activities foster a sense of togetherness in this peaceful mountain town.
