Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Missouri

Founded in 1818, Jefferson County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Jefferson County was formed from St. Louis and Sainte Genevieve counties. The city of Hillsboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 99, Jefferson County has a population of 227,771 and area of 657 square miles (1,702 km²).

List of all cities in Jefferson County, MO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Antonia, MO 63052 636
Arnold, MO 63010 636
Barnhart, MO 63012 636
Byrnes Mill, MO 63049 636
63051 636
Cedar Hill, MO 63016 636
Crystal City, MO 63019 636
De Soto, MO 63020 636
Desoto, MO 63020 636
Dittmer, MO 63023 636
Festus, MO 63028 636
Fletcher, MO 63030 573
Hematite, MO 63047 636
Herculaneum, MO 63048 636
High Ridge, MO 63049 636
Hillsboro, MO 63050 636
Horine, MO 63070 636
House Springs, MO 63049 636
63051 636
Imperial, MO 63052 636
63053 636
Kimmswick, MO 63053 636
Lake Adelle, MO 63016 636
Liguori, MO 63057 636
Mapaville, MO 63065 636
Morse Mill, MO 63066 636
Olympian Village, MO 63020 636
Otto, MO 63052 636
Pevely, MO 63070 636
Sulphur Springs, MO 63052 636
Valles Mines, MO 63020 636

Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Missouri


Arnold

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 11.94 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 21,000
  • Zip Code: 63010
  • Latitude: 38.4329° N
  • Longitude: 90.3776° W

Location and History

Arnold, the largest city in Jefferson County, is located along the Mississippi River and just south of St. Louis. Established in the early 1800s, Arnold’s growth was tied to its location near the Meramec and Mississippi Rivers, making it an ideal spot for trade and transport. It evolved into a suburban community in the 20th century, especially as highways made commuting to St. Louis easy. Arnold is known for its residential neighborhoods, strong school system, and recreational opportunities. It has modern amenities and serves as a residential hub for families and professionals working in nearby St. Louis.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The Fox C-6 School District serves Arnold, with schools like Fox High School and Seckman High School. Key landmarks include Arnold City Park, which provides trails, sports facilities, and hosts community events, and the Arnold Recreation Center, a popular venue for sports and fitness. The Meramec River offers scenic spots for fishing and kayaking. The Arnold Days festival is held each year with parades, games, and concerts, celebrating community spirit. With quality schools, outdoor spaces, and a family-friendly atmosphere, Arnold is a thriving city in Jefferson County.


Festus

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 5.71 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 12,000
  • Zip Code: 63028
  • Latitude: 38.2203° N
  • Longitude: 90.3951° W

Location and History

Festus, located along Interstate 55, is a historic town with roots dating back to the 19th century. The town initially developed as a stop along the railroad, which brought commerce and settlers to the area. Named after Festus J. Wade, a prominent businessman, the city grew as a small trading and manufacturing community. Today, Festus retains its historical charm with a vibrant downtown area, while new developments provide modern amenities. The town shares close ties with Crystal City, creating a combined community known for shopping, dining, and local events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The Festus R-VI School District serves the area, with Festus High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Key landmarks include West City Park, with picnic areas, sports facilities, and an annual fireworks display, and the Festus-Crystal City Conservation Area, which provides opportunities for hiking and fishing. The Twin City Days festival, held with neighboring Crystal City, brings the community together for a weekend of parades, music, and entertainment. With its mix of history, modern amenities, and community events, Festus is a vibrant and welcoming city.


Crystal City

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 4.57 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,800
  • Zip Code: 63019
  • Latitude: 38.2209° N
  • Longitude: 90.3762° W

Location and History

Crystal City, adjacent to Festus, was founded in the 1870s when the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company established a glass manufacturing plant here, giving the city its name. Known as the “Crystal City of Glass,” the town quickly grew as workers settled in the area. Though the glass factory closed in the mid-20th century, the city’s industrial history is preserved in its architecture and cultural landmarks. Today, Crystal City maintains a small-town feel with a close-knit community, a revitalized downtown, and recreational opportunities along the Mississippi River.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Crystal City is served by the Crystal City 47 School District, which includes Crystal City High School. Notable landmarks include Crystal City Park, which offers playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas, and the Mississippi Riverfront, where residents enjoy scenic views and fishing. The annual Twin City Days, held with Festus, features parades, live music, and family activities. With a rich industrial history, riverfront access, and active community events, Crystal City provides a unique small-town experience in Jefferson County.


De Soto

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 4.29 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 6,400
  • Zip Code: 63020
  • Latitude: 38.1392° N
  • Longitude: 90.5554° W

Location and History

De Soto, named after Spanish explorer Hernando De Soto, was founded in the 1850s as a railroad town. Its growth was closely tied to the Missouri Pacific Railroad, which established maintenance facilities here. De Soto became known as the “Fountain City” due to its abundant natural springs. While the railroad industry has declined, De Soto has retained its charm with a historic downtown, unique shops, and local festivals. The city offers a balance of small-town living with easy access to St. Louis, making it a popular choice for those seeking a quieter lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks

De Soto 73 School District serves the area, with De Soto High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Landmarks include Walther Park, with trails, sports fields, and picnic areas, and the De Soto Public Library, a community hub for events and educational programs. The annual Fall Festival, featuring local crafts, food, and entertainment, brings residents together. De Soto’s historical character, strong schools, and active community events make it a warm and welcoming town in Jefferson County.


Pevely

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 4.69 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,700
  • Zip Code: 63070
  • Latitude: 38.2831° N
  • Longitude: 90.3973° W

Location and History

Pevely, founded in the 1860s, grew initially as a farming community and later as a manufacturing town due to its location near the Mississippi River. Its development accelerated in the 20th century as industries were established in the area, attracting workers and supporting businesses. Pevely’s location along Interstate 55 has made it a convenient suburb for those commuting to St. Louis, and it continues to grow with residential developments and local businesses. Despite its growth, Pevely retains a small-town atmosphere, with an emphasis on family-friendly activities and community involvement.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pevely is part of the Dunklin R-V School District, which includes Herculaneum High School and Pevely Elementary School. Local landmarks include Pevely Park, offering playgrounds, sports fields, and picnic areas, and the nearby Herculaneum Access Conservation Area, where residents enjoy fishing and hiking. The annual Pevely Day festival features food, music, and activities, highlighting the town’s community spirit. Pevely’s blend of suburban living, community resources, and easy access to St. Louis make it an attractive town in Jefferson County.


Hillsboro

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 3.74 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,000
  • Zip Code: 63050
  • Latitude: 38.2320° N
  • Longitude: 90.5635° W

Location and History

Hillsboro, the county seat of Jefferson County, was founded in the early 1800s and officially became the seat in 1839. Named for its location on a series of rolling hills, Hillsboro has a rural, small-town feel and serves as the administrative and legal center of the county. The town’s historic courthouse and small businesses reflect its long-standing role in the county. Hillsboro’s location amid forests and hills provides scenic landscapes, and its proximity to major highways connects it to nearby towns and cities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The Hillsboro R-III School District serves the area, including Hillsboro High School, Middle School, and Elementary School. Key landmarks include the Jefferson County Courthouse, a historic building central to the town, and Hillsboro City Park, which offers playgrounds, trails, and picnic areas. Sandy Creek Covered Bridge State Historic Site, located nearby, is a preserved 19th-century bridge and popular local attraction. Hillsboro’s historic charm, strong school system, and role as a county hub make it a valued community in Jefferson County.


Herculaneum

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 4.35 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 3,900
  • Zip Code: 63048
  • Latitude: 38.2587° N
  • Longitude: 90.3934° W

Location and History

Herculaneum, located along the Mississippi River, was founded in 1808 as a river port and early center for lead smelting, making it one of the oldest industrial towns in Missouri. Named after the ancient Roman city of Herculaneum, it became a key site for lead production, which shaped its economy and development. Although the lead smelter has closed, Herculaneum has maintained its industrial legacy while focusing on revitalization and growth as a residential community. The town’s historic riverfront and scenic bluffs provide natural beauty and a sense of history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Herculaneum is part of the Dunklin R-V School District, with students attending Herculaneum High School and Pevely Elementary School. Major landmarks include the historic Herculaneum City Park and the Herculaneum Access Conservation Area along the Mississippi River, where residents enjoy fishing and picnicking. The town’s annual summer festival brings the community together for music, games, and fireworks. Herculaneum’s blend of industrial heritage, scenic riverfront, and community events makes it a unique and historic town in Jefferson County.


Byrnes Mill

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 5.19 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,800
  • Zip Code: 63051
  • Latitude: 38.4042° N
  • Longitude: 90.5726° W

Location and History

Byrnes Mill, located in northern Jefferson County, was named after the Byrnes family, who operated a mill along the Big River in the 1800s. Initially a rural farming community, Byrnes Mill has developed into a residential area with scenic views and access to outdoor activities along the river. The town’s rural atmosphere and proximity to St. Louis make it appealing to those seeking a quieter lifestyle while remaining close to city amenities. Byrnes Mill is known for its rolling hills, forests, and a strong sense of community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Byrnes Mill is served by the Northwest R-I School District, with schools in nearby High Ridge. Local landmarks include Byrnes Mill Park, which offers trails, picnic areas, and access to the Big River for kayaking and fishing. The nearby House Springs Conservation Area provides hiking and wildlife observation opportunities. Byrnes Mill’s rural charm, outdoor spaces, and easy access to St. Louis make it an attractive town for families and nature enthusiasts in Jefferson County.