Cities and Towns in Hardin County, Kentucky
Founded in 1792, Hardin County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Hardin County was formed from Nelson County. The city of Elizabethtown is the county seat. With FIPS code of 93, Hardin County has a population of 111,607 and area of 628 square miles (1,627 km²).
List of all cities in Hardin County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Big Spring, KY | 40175 | 270 |
| Cecilia, KY | 42724 | 270 |
| East Town, KY | 42701 | 270 |
| 42702 | 270 | |
| East View, KY | 42732 | 270 |
| Elizabethtown, KY | 42701 | 270 |
| 42702 | 270 | |
| Flaherty, KY | 40175 | 270 |
| Fort Knox, KY | 40121 | 502 |
| Glendale, KY | 42701 | 270 |
| 42740 | 270 | |
| Meeting Creek, KY | 42732 | 270 |
| Radcliff, KY | 40159 | 270 |
| 40160 | 270 | |
| Rineyville, KY | 40162 | 270 |
| Sonora, KY | 42776 | 270 |
| Stephensburg, KY | 42724 | 270 |
| Summit, KY | 42732 | 270 |
| Upton, KY | 42784 | 270 |
| Vertrees, KY | 42724 | 270 |
| Vine Grove, KY | 40175 | 270 |
| West Point, KY | 40177 | 502 |
| White Mills, KY | 42788 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Hardin County, Kentucky
Elizabethtown
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 27.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 31,000 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 42701, 42702
- Latitude: 37.7031° N
- Longitude: 85.8647° W
Location and History
Elizabethtown, known locally as “E-town,” is the county seat of Hardin County and the largest city in the area. Founded in 1797 and named after Elizabeth Hynes, wife of Colonel Andrew Hynes, who helped establish the town, Elizabethtown grew as a trade and transportation hub due to its central location. The arrival of the Louisville and Nashville Railroad in the 1850s helped spur its growth. During the Civil War, the town was briefly occupied by Confederate forces in 1862. In the post-war period, Elizabethtown developed into a key center for manufacturing, agriculture, and trade, benefiting from its proximity to Fort Knox and Interstate 65. Today, Elizabethtown is a thriving city known for its historical significance and as a regional commercial hub.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elizabethtown is served by the Elizabethtown Independent School District and Hardin County Schools, with prominent institutions like Elizabethtown High School and Central Hardin High School. Key landmarks in the city include the Historic State Theater, which showcases the city’s cultural heritage, and the Brown-Pusey House, a historic mansion that serves as a museum and genealogical library. Freeman Lake Park is a popular destination for outdoor activities, featuring walking trails, fishing, and picnic areas. Elizabethtown is also home to the Swope’s Cars of Yesteryear Museum, which displays a large collection of classic cars. The city’s blend of history, culture, and commerce continues to make it a focal point in Hardin County.
Radcliff
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 12.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 22,000 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40160
- Latitude: 37.8407° N
- Longitude: 85.9480° W
Location and History
Radcliff is located just north of Elizabethtown, near the boundary of Fort Knox, one of the largest military installations in the United States. Established in 1919 as a direct result of the expansion of Fort Knox, Radcliff grew rapidly during World War II, when the fort became a major training base. The town was named after Major William Radcliffe, who played a significant role in the development of the fort. Over time, Radcliff became a residential and commercial center for military personnel and their families. The town has maintained a strong connection to the military and continues to serve as a vital community for those stationed at Fort Knox.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Radcliff is served by Hardin County Schools, including North Hardin High School and Radcliff Middle School. Notable landmarks in Radcliff include the General George Patton Museum of Leadership, which offers exhibits on military history and leadership, and Saunders Springs Nature Preserve, which provides hiking trails and scenic views. The town is also home to Radcliff City Park, which features sports fields and playgrounds. Radcliff’s proximity to Fort Knox makes it an important part of the region’s economy and culture, and its location near Interstate 65 ensures easy access to larger cities like Louisville.
Vine Grove
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,000 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40175
- Latitude: 37.8103° N
- Longitude: 85.9822° W
Location and History
Vine Grove is a charming town located just northwest of Radcliff, near Fort Knox. Established in the late 1800s, Vine Grove originally grew as a farming community, with tobacco being a major crop. The town’s name comes from the wild grapevines that once covered the area. Although small, Vine Grove’s proximity to Fort Knox has allowed it to grow steadily over the years as more military families and retirees settled in the area. Despite this growth, the town has maintained its small-town charm, with a historic downtown area and a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Vine Grove is part of the Hardin County School District, with students attending schools such as North Hardin High School and Vine Grove Elementary School. The town is known for its annual Bluegrass Festival, which celebrates local music and culture. Key landmarks include Optimist Park, which offers sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds, and the Vine Grove Memorial Park, dedicated to local veterans. The town’s historic district, with its 19th-century buildings, reflects Vine Grove’s agricultural roots. Vine Grove’s close proximity to Fort Knox and its welcoming community make it an attractive place for families and retirees.
West Point
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 800 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40177
- Latitude: 37.9964° N
- Longitude: 85.9483° W
Location and History
West Point is a small town located on the banks of the Ohio River in northern Hardin County. Founded in 1796, West Point is one of the oldest settlements in the region. The town was strategically located at the confluence of the Salt and Ohio Rivers, making it a key point for trade and transportation in the early 19th century. During the Civil War, West Point was an important Union supply base due to its location near the L&N Railroad and Fort Duffield, a Union fort that still stands today. While the town’s importance as a transportation hub has diminished, West Point remains rich in history and continues to attract visitors interested in its Civil War past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
West Point is part of Hardin County Schools, with students attending North Hardin High School and West Point Elementary School. The town’s most significant landmark is Fort Duffield, one of Kentucky’s best-preserved Civil War forts, which offers hiking trails and historical exhibits. The Ohio River provides scenic views and recreational opportunities, including boating and fishing. West Point is also home to the West Point Museum, which showcases local history and artifacts from the town’s past. Despite its small size, West Point’s historical significance and natural beauty make it an interesting destination for visitors and history enthusiasts.
Upton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 700 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 42784
- Latitude: 37.4623° N
- Longitude: 85.8949° W
Location and History
Upton is a small town located on the southern edge of Hardin County, along Interstate 65. Established in the mid-19th century, Upton developed as a railroad town, with the Louisville and Nashville Railroad playing a key role in its growth. The town was named after John Upton, an early settler who helped establish the local post office. Upton grew as a small agricultural community, with local farmers producing tobacco, corn, and livestock. While it remains a quiet rural town, Upton’s location along the interstate has made it a convenient stop for travelers between Louisville and Nashville.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Upton is served by Hardin County Schools, with students attending nearby schools such as East Hardin Middle School and Central Hardin High School. The town’s key landmarks include Upton Community Park, which offers playgrounds, picnic areas, and sports facilities. Upton’s historic district features several 19th-century homes and buildings that reflect its railroad past. The town is also near Mammoth Cave National Park, making it a gateway for tourists exploring the region’s natural attractions. Upton’s quiet, rural setting and convenient location along I-65 make it an ideal place for those seeking a small-town lifestyle with easy access to larger cities.
