Cities and Towns in Houston County, Alabama
Founded in 1903, Houston County is the 12th biggest county by population (out of 67) in the state of Alabama. Historically, Houston County was formed from Dale, Geneva, and Henry counties. The city of Dothan is the County seat. With population density of 175.08 residents per square miles, Houston County has a population of 101,547 and area of 579.82 square miles.
List of all cities and towns in Houston County, Al
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ashford, AL | 36312 | 334 |
| Columbia, AL | 36319 | 334 |
| Cottonwood, AL | 36320 | 334 |
| Cowarts, AL | 36321 | 334 |
| Dothan, AL | 36301, 36302, 36303, 36304, 36305 | 334 |
| Gordon, AL | 36343 | 334 |
| Grangeburg, AL | 36343 | 334 |
| Grimes, AL | 36301 | 334 |
| Haleburg, AL | 36319 | 334 |
| Hodgesville, AL | 36301 | 334 |
| Kelly Springs, AL | 36301 | 334 |
| Kinsey, AL | 36303 | 334 |
| Madrid, AL | 36320 | 334 |
| Pansey, AL | 36370 | 334 |
| Rehobeth, AL | 36301, 36303, 36305 | 334 |
| Taylor, AL | 36301, 36305 | 334 |
| Webb, AL | 36376 | 334 |
Major Cities and Towns in Houston County, Alabama
Dothan
Area, Population, and Geographic Details
- Area: 90.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 70,000 (as of the latest census)
- Zip Codes: 36301, 36303, 36305
- Latitude: 31.2232° N
- Longitude: 85.3905° W
Location and History
Dothan, the county seat of Houston County, is located in the southeastern part of Alabama. The city was incorporated in 1885 and named after a biblical city mentioned in the Book of Genesis. Dothan’s growth was spurred by the arrival of the railroad, which transformed it into a key transportation and trade hub for the region. The city is known as the “Peanut Capital of the World,” reflecting its role as a major center for peanut production and processing. Dothan’s history is deeply tied to agriculture, but it has also diversified over the years, becoming a center for healthcare, education, and retail in southeastern Alabama.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Dothan is served by the Dothan City Schools system, with Dothan High School and Carver Magnet School being the primary educational institutions. The city is home to several significant landmarks, including the Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, which features 50 acres of landscaped gardens and nature trails. The Wiregrass Museum of Art offers exhibits on local and regional art, while Landmark Park, a 135-acre historical and natural preserve, showcases the region’s agricultural heritage. Dothan also hosts the annual National Peanut Festival, the largest peanut festival in the country, which celebrates the city’s agricultural roots with parades, concerts, and exhibitions.
Ashford
Area, Population, and Geographic Details
- Area: 6.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,200 (as of the latest census)
- Zip Codes: 36312
- Latitude: 31.1863° N
- Longitude: 85.2372° W
Location and History
Ashford is a small city in Houston County, located to the east of Dothan. The city was incorporated in 1891 and grew around the Alabama Midland Railroad, which played a crucial role in its development. Ashford was named after the ash trees that once grew in abundance in the area. The city’s history is closely tied to agriculture, particularly cotton and peanut farming, which have been the backbone of its economy for generations. Ashford has maintained its small-town charm while also benefiting from its proximity to Dothan, which provides residents with access to larger city amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ashford is served by the Houston County School District, with Ashford High School and Ashford Elementary School being the main educational institutions. The city is known for its historic downtown area, where several buildings from the early 20th century still stand, reflecting its rich heritage. The Ashford Depot, a historic train station, has been preserved as a symbol of the city’s railroad past. The city’s parks, including Westside Park, offer recreational spaces for residents to enjoy outdoor activities. Ashford also hosts various community events, such as the annual Ashford Downtown Christmas Festival, which brings together residents for holiday celebrations.
Columbia
Area, Population, and Geographic Details
- Area: 4.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 750 (as of the latest census)
- Zip Codes: 36319
- Latitude: 31.2925° N
- Longitude: 85.1105° W
Location and History
Columbia is a small town in Houston County, located near the Alabama-Georgia state line. The town was incorporated in 1820, making it one of the oldest settlements in the county. Columbia’s location along the Chattahoochee River made it an important trading post in the 19th century, especially for cotton and other agricultural products. The town’s economy has historically been tied to the river, which provided a means of transportation and trade. Despite its small size, Columbia has a rich history and has preserved many of its historic buildings and sites, reflecting its long-standing role in the region’s development.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Columbia is served by the Houston County School District, with students typically attending schools in nearby towns such as Ashford. The town is known for its historic sites, including the Columbia Courthouse Square Historic District, which features several well-preserved buildings from the 19th century. The Old Columbia Jail, a historic structure, now serves as a museum that offers insights into the town’s history. The town’s annual Columbia Chattahoochee River Fest celebrates its connection to the river with boat races, music, and family-friendly activities, attracting visitors from across the region.
Cottonwood
Area, Population, and Geographic Details
- Area: 5.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,300 (as of the latest census)
- Zip Codes: 36320
- Latitude: 31.0499° N
- Longitude: 85.3027° W
Location and History
Cottonwood is a small town in southern Houston County, Alabama. The town was incorporated in 1901 and has a history rooted in agriculture, particularly cotton farming, which influenced its name. Cottonwood developed as a rural community with its economy based primarily on farming and related industries. The town’s growth has been gradual, reflecting its agricultural background and the steady development of the region. Despite its small size, Cottonwood has maintained a strong sense of community and rural charm, making it an appealing place for those seeking a quiet, country lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cottonwood is served by the Houston County School District, with Cottonwood High School being the primary educational institution, providing education from kindergarten through 12th grade. The town is known for its peaceful atmosphere and its focus on preserving its agricultural heritage. One of the key landmarks in Cottonwood is the historic Cottonwood Baptist Church, which has been a central part of the community for over a century. The town’s annual events, such as the Cottonwood Day Festival, celebrate its history and bring residents together for parades, music, and local crafts, fostering a strong sense of community spirit.
Map of Cities in Houston County, Al
