Cities and Towns in Habersham County, Georgia
Founded in 1818, Habersham County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Habersham County was formed from Cherokee Cessions of 1817 and 1819. The city of Clarkesville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 137, Habersham County has a population of 46,774 and area of 278 square miles (720 km²).
List of all cities in Habersham County, GA alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Alto, GA | 30510 | 706/762 |
Clarkesville, GA | 30523 | 706/762 |
Cornelia, GA | 30531 | 706/762 |
Demorest, GA | 30535 | 706/762 |
30544 | 706/762 | |
Habersham, GA | 30544 | 706/762 |
Mount Airy, GA | 30563 | 706/762 |
Turnerville, GA | 30580 | 706/762 |
Major Cities and Towns in Habersham County, Georgia
Cornelia
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: 4,160 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30531
- Latitude: 34.5129° N
- Longitude: 83.5304° W
Location and History
Cornelia is the largest city in Habersham County, located in the northeastern part of Georgia. The city was founded in 1860 and named after Cornelia Chisolm, the wife of a prominent railroad executive. Cornelia developed rapidly as a railroad town, serving as a key stop on the Southern Railway, which connected the area to major cities like Atlanta and Asheville. The city became known for its agricultural products, particularly apples, and to this day, it celebrates its heritage with the annual Big Red Apple Festival. Cornelia is also home to the famous “Big Red Apple,” a seven-foot-tall statue that stands as a symbol of the city’s agricultural roots. Over the years, Cornelia has grown into a vibrant community with a mix of historic charm and modern amenities, making it a central hub for commerce and culture in Habersham County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cornelia is served by the Habersham County School District, with key educational institutions including Cornelia Elementary School and Habersham Central High School. The city’s landmarks include the historic Cornelia Depot, which now serves as a museum and community center, and the Cornelia Community House, a WPA-era building that hosts local events and gatherings. Another significant site is the Chenocetah Tower, a stone fire lookout tower built in 1937, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Additionally, the Big Red Apple Monument, located in downtown Cornelia, is a popular photo spot and a reminder of the city’s agricultural heritage. The annual Big Red Apple Festival celebrates the city’s history with parades, live music, and family-friendly activities.
Clarkesville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: 1,732 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30523
- Latitude: 34.6126° N
- Longitude: 83.5246° W
Location and History
Clarkesville is the county seat of Habersham County, situated in the picturesque foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Established in 1823, the city was named after General John Clark, a governor of Georgia and a Revolutionary War hero. Clarkesville quickly became a regional center for trade and government, with its location along the Soque River contributing to its early growth. The city’s historic downtown area is a testament to its rich past, featuring well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries. Clarkesville is known for its charming, small-town atmosphere and its commitment to preserving its historical and cultural heritage. The city has a vibrant arts community, with several galleries, theaters, and festivals that draw visitors from across the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clarkesville is served by the Habersham County School District, with educational institutions including North Habersham Middle School and the nearby Piedmont University, a private liberal arts college that plays a significant role in the community. The city’s landmarks include the Habersham County Courthouse, a historic building that has been the center of county government since 1964, and the Grace-Calvary Episcopal Church, one of the oldest churches in the region. The downtown area is home to several art galleries, such as the Soque ArtWorks, and the historic Habersham Theater, which hosts performances and events. The nearby Tallulah Gorge State Park, with its stunning waterfalls and hiking trails, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, further enhancing Clarkesville’s appeal as a cultural and natural hub in Habersham County.
Demorest
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: 1,732 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30535
- Latitude: 34.5659° N
- Longitude: 83.5453° W
Location and History
Demorest is a small city located in central Habersham County, known for its scenic beauty and educational heritage. The city was established in 1889 by the Demorest Home, Mining, and Improvement Company, which aimed to create a model community based on progressive ideals. Demorest quickly became a center for education and culture, with the founding of Piedmont College (now Piedmont University) in 1897. The city has a rich history tied to the temperance movement and the Chautauqua movement, which sought to bring education and enlightenment to rural America. Today, Demorest retains much of its historical charm, with many buildings from its early days still standing, and continues to be a hub for education and community life in Habersham County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Demorest is best known for being home to Piedmont University, a significant educational institution in northeast Georgia, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The city’s landmarks include the Demorest Women’s Club, housed in a historic building that dates back to the city’s founding, and the Johnny Mize Athletic Center and Museum, dedicated to the Baseball Hall of Famer who was a native of Demorest. The downtown area features a variety of historic buildings, shops, and restaurants, contributing to the city’s vibrant community atmosphere. Demorest is also known for its annual festivals, such as the Demorest Spring and Fall Festivals, which celebrate the city’s history and culture with arts, crafts, and live entertainment.
Baldwin
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.9 square miles
- Population: 3,279 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30511
- Latitude: 34.4918° N
- Longitude: 83.5577° W
Location and History
Baldwin is a city located on the border of Habersham and Banks counties, making it unique as it spans two counties. The city was incorporated in 1896 and developed as a small agricultural and railroad town. Baldwin’s growth was closely tied to the arrival of the railroad, which provided a vital link for transporting agricultural products, particularly cotton and poultry, to larger markets. Over the years, Baldwin has evolved into a small, close-knit community with a mix of residential, commercial, and industrial areas. Its location along major highways has made it an attractive location for businesses and commuters, contributing to its steady growth. Despite its development, Baldwin has retained a small-town feel, with a focus on community and tradition.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Baldwin is part of the Habersham County School District, with Baldwin Elementary School serving as a key educational institution in the city. One of Baldwin’s most notable landmarks is the Banks County Dragway, a historic drag racing track that has been a popular destination for racing enthusiasts for decades. The city is also home to the Baldwin City Park, a community space that hosts local events, sports, and recreational activities. Additionally, the nearby Lake Russell Recreation Area offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and camping, making Baldwin a popular spot for nature lovers. The city’s annual events, including the Baldwin Fall Festival, bring together residents and visitors to celebrate the city’s rich history and vibrant community spirit.
Mount Airy
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.9 square miles
- Population: 1,284 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 30563
- Latitude: 34.5193° N
- Longitude: 83.4990° W
Location and History
Mount Airy is a small town located in the northern part of Habersham County, known for its historic homes and scenic location near the Appalachian Mountains. The town was incorporated in 1891 and quickly became a popular summer retreat for wealthy families from Atlanta and other cities, who were drawn to the area’s cool climate and natural beauty. Mount Airy developed as a residential community, with many grand homes and estates built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s history is closely tied to the development of the nearby Tallulah Falls Railway, which brought visitors to the area and contributed to its growth. Today, Mount Airy remains a quiet, residential community with a strong sense of history and tradition.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Airy is served by the Habersham County School District, with students attending nearby schools such as Hazel Grove Elementary School and Habersham Central High School. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Mount Airy Depot, a restored train station that now serves as a museum and community center. Another significant site is the historic Jarrett Manor, a well-preserved antebellum home that offers tours and educational programs about the area’s history. The nearby Lake Russell Wildlife Management Area provides opportunities for outdoor recreation, including hunting, fishing, and hiking, making Mount Airy a popular destination for nature enthusiasts. The town’s annual events, such as the Mount Airy Fall Festival, celebrate its rich history and community spirit with parades, crafts, and local food.