Cities and Towns in Jackson County, Tennessee

Founded in 1801, Jackson County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Jackson County was formed from Smith County and Indian lands. The city of Gainesboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 87, Jackson County has a population of 11,750 and area of 309 square miles (800 km²).

List of all cities in Jackson County, TN alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Gainesboro, TN 38562 931
Granville, TN 38564 931
Whitleyville, TN 38588 931

Major Cities and Towns in Jackson County, Tennessee

Gainesboro

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 1.9 square miles
  • Population: 1,003 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Codes: 38562
  • Coordinates: 36.3617° N, 85.6600° W

Location and History

Gainesboro, the county seat of Jackson County, is located in the Cumberland River Valley in north-central Tennessee. Founded in 1820, the town was named after General Edmund Pendleton Gaines, a hero of the War of 1812. Gainesboro grew as a trading and administrative hub for the surrounding agricultural region. Its location along the Cumberland River made it an important center for transportation and commerce in the 19th century. Today, Gainesboro retains its historical charm with well-preserved architecture and a close-knit community atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Gainesboro is served by the Jackson County School District, with Jackson County High School located nearby. Landmarks include the historic Jackson County Courthouse, built in 1927, and the Wildwood Resort and Marina, which offers access to Cordell Hull Lake for boating and fishing. The town also features the Gainesboro Historic District, which preserves its 19th-century charm. The annual Granville Heritage Days celebrates local culture with crafts, music, and historical reenactments.

Granville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles (unincorporated)
  • Population: Estimated 300 (2020 estimate)
  • ZIP Codes: 38564
  • Coordinates: 36.2695° N, 85.7859° W

Location and History

Granville is a small, unincorporated town in southern Jackson County, located along the Cumberland River. Settled in the early 19th century, Granville became a thriving river port during the steamboat era, supporting local agriculture and trade. The town’s economy declined with the advent of railroads, but its historical charm has been preserved. Granville is now known for its vibrant heritage tourism, attracting visitors with its picturesque setting and cultural events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Granville’s residents attend schools in nearby Gainesboro. Landmarks include the Granville Museum, which showcases the town’s river history, and the Sutton General Store, a restored 19th-century store that hosts the Granville Bluegrass Dinner Show. The nearby Cordell Hull Lake offers recreational activities such as boating and fishing, while the historic Granville Cemetery reflects the area’s rich past. The annual Granville Heritage Day brings the community together with crafts, music, and storytelling.