Cities and Towns in Jackson County, Kentucky
Founded in 1858, Jackson County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Jackson County was formed from Madison County, Estill County, Owsley County, Clay County, Laurel County, and Rockcastle County. The city of McKee is the county seat. With FIPS code of 109, Jackson County has a population of 12,984 and area of 346 square miles (896 km²).
List of all cities in Jackson County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Annville, KY | 40402 | 606 |
| Bond, KY | 40402 | 606 |
| Clover Bottom, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Dabolt, KY | 40402 | 606 |
| Eberle, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Elias, KY | 40486 | 606 |
| Foxtown, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Gray Hawk, KY | 40434 | 606 |
| Herd, KY | 40486 | 606 |
| Hisle, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Kerby Knob, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Maulden, KY | 40486 | 606 |
| Mc Kee, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Moores Creek, KY | 40402 | 606 |
| Morrill, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| New Zion, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Parrot, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Peoples, KY | 40447 | 606 |
| Sandgap, KY | 40481 | 606 |
| Tyner, KY | 40486 | 606 |
| Waneta, KY | 40488 | 606 |
| Wind Cave, KY | 40447 | 606 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jackson County, Kentucky
McKee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 800 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40447
- Latitude: 37.4318° N
- Longitude: 83.9873° W
Location and History
McKee is the county seat of Jackson County, located in southeastern Kentucky. The town was officially incorporated in 1882 and named after Judge George McKee, a prominent local figure. McKee is situated in the Appalachian foothills and has historically been a center for farming and small-scale industries. The town developed slowly, relying on its agricultural base, including corn and tobacco farming, as well as lumber from the surrounding forests. The proximity of Daniel Boone National Forest also shaped McKee’s early economy, with logging playing a significant role. Today, McKee remains a quiet rural community, with strong ties to its Appalachian heritage and traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
McKee is served by the Jackson County School District, with Jackson County High School and McKee Elementary School being the primary educational institutions. One of McKee’s key landmarks is the Jackson County Courthouse, which stands in the heart of downtown and serves as a reminder of the town’s role as the county seat. Nearby, the Daniel Boone National Forest offers countless recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, and fishing. McKee also hosts the annual Jackson County Fair, which showcases local crafts, agricultural products, and traditions. The town’s location near the forest makes it a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts exploring southeastern Kentucky’s natural beauty.
Annville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40402
- Latitude: 37.3198° N
- Longitude: 83.9616° W
Location and History
Annville is a small town located in the northern part of Jackson County. Founded in the late 19th century, the town developed as a hub for agriculture and local businesses. Annville’s name is believed to have come from a local schoolteacher, Ann Freeman, who was highly respected in the area. The town grew slowly, with its economy centered on farming, particularly tobacco, corn, and livestock. Over the years, Annville has also been home to several religious institutions, including the Annville Institute, which was established in 1909 by the Reformed Church in America to provide education and services to the community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Annville is served by Jackson County Public Schools, with Annville Christian Academy and Tyner Elementary School providing education to local students. The Annville Institute, though no longer an operational school, remains a key landmark in the town and now serves as a community center and a venue for various events. Another prominent landmark is the Gray Hawk Community Park, which offers recreational facilities such as sports fields and picnic areas. Annville’s scenic location in the Appalachian foothills makes it an ideal spot for those seeking a peaceful, rural lifestyle while remaining connected to Jackson County’s larger communities.
Sandgap
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 500 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40481
- Latitude: 37.4967° N
- Longitude: 84.0191° W
Location and History
Sandgap is a small, unincorporated community in northwestern Jackson County, near the border of Rockcastle County. The town was established in the 19th century, and its name is thought to derive from the sandy soil found in the gap between two mountain ridges where the town is located. Sandgap developed primarily as a farming and logging community, with local residents relying on the natural resources of the surrounding forests and fertile land. The town’s location along U.S. Route 421 made it a convenient stop for travelers and traders moving through the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Sandgap is part of the Jackson County School District, with students attending Sandgap Elementary School and Jackson County High School in McKee. A key landmark in Sandgap is the Sandgap Pentecostal Church, which has been a central part of the community for decades. The town’s rural surroundings provide opportunities for outdoor activities, including hiking, hunting, and birdwatching in the nearby Daniel Boone National Forest. Sandgap is also home to several historic farms and homesteads that reflect the town’s agricultural roots. Despite its small size, Sandgap offers a tranquil lifestyle with easy access to natural beauty and outdoor recreation.
Tyner
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 1.8 square miles
- Population: Around 600 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40486
- Latitude: 37.4061° N
- Longitude: 83.9314° W
Location and History
Tyner is a small community located in central Jackson County, along U.S. Route 421. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and named after a prominent local family. Tyner developed as an agricultural community, with local residents engaged in tobacco, corn, and livestock farming. The town’s location on a major highway helped sustain its growth as a local trade center, although it has remained a small, rural community. Tyner’s history is deeply connected to the surrounding countryside, with family farms and small businesses serving as the backbone of its economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Tyner is served by the Jackson County School District, with local students attending Tyner Elementary School and Jackson County High School in nearby McKee. The town is known for its scenic rural landscape, which offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, hiking, and hunting. The nearby Turkey Foot Recreation Area, located in the Daniel Boone National Forest, provides camping and picnic facilities, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Tyner’s agricultural history is also celebrated through local events and festivals that highlight the town’s farming traditions and close-knit community.
Gray Hawk
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40434
- Latitude: 37.3670° N
- Longitude: 83.9924° W
Location and History
Gray Hawk is a small, unincorporated community in central Jackson County, situated near McKee. The town was named after the gray hawks that were once abundant in the region. Established in the late 19th century, Gray Hawk developed as a farming and logging community, with its economy based on the natural resources of the surrounding forests and agricultural land. The town remained small throughout the 20th century but has retained its rural charm and strong community spirit. Today, Gray Hawk is known for its scenic surroundings and close-knit atmosphere, making it a peaceful place to live.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gray Hawk is part of the Jackson County School District, with students attending McKee Elementary and Jackson County High School. One of the town’s main landmarks is Gray Hawk Community Park, which offers recreational facilities for residents, including sports fields and picnic areas. The town’s proximity to the Daniel Boone National Forest provides residents with easy access to outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing. Gray Hawk’s rural setting and natural beauty make it an attractive destination for those looking to enjoy the outdoors while being part of a small, welcoming community.