Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Montana
Founded in February 2, 1865, Jefferson County is one of 56 counties in the state of Montana. Historically, Jefferson County was one of the 9 original counties. The city of Boulder is the county seat. With FIPS code of 43, Jefferson County has a population of 12,470 and area of 1,657 square miles (4,292 km²).
List of all cities in Jefferson County, MT alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Basin, MT | 59631 | 406 |
| Boulder, MT | 59632 | 406 |
| Cardwell, MT | 59721 | 406 |
| Clancy, MT | 59634 | 406 |
| Jefferson City, MT | 59638 | 406 |
| Montana City, MT | 59634 | 406 |
| Whitehall, MT | 59759 | 406 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Montana
Boulder
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.04 sq mi
- Population: 1,200 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59632
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.4052° N, 112.1166° W
Location and History
Boulder, the county seat of Jefferson County, is situated along the Boulder River in southwestern Montana, nestled between the Elkhorn and Rocky Mountains. Originally established as a mining town during the Montana Gold Rush in the mid-1800s, Boulder quickly became a hub for gold prospectors after gold was discovered in the area in 1864. The town’s population boomed during the gold rush years, but like many mining towns, it saw a decline as mining activity slowed. However, Boulder remained a vital center for regional trade and commerce. In the 20th century, Boulder transitioned into a quiet, rural town with an economy centered on agriculture and tourism. Its scenic location and proximity to the Boulder River make it a popular spot for outdoor recreation, including fishing, hiking, and camping. Today, Boulder is a historic town that still reflects its mining heritage, with well-preserved buildings and a welcoming small-town atmosphere. The town is also known for its role in state history, as it was once home to the Montana Territorial Prison, which housed infamous criminals in the late 19th century.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Boulder is served by the Jefferson High School District, which includes Boulder High School and a middle school. The town’s educational institutions are known for their small class sizes and strong community involvement. Boulder also has a public library and a few private educational offerings. Notable landmarks include the Jefferson County Courthouse, which serves as the focal point for county government, and the historic Boulder Hot Springs, a popular spa destination known for its therapeutic mineral waters. The Boulder River, a designated Blue Ribbon trout stream, provides ample opportunities for fishing, while nearby hiking trails and the surrounding mountains offer hiking, biking, and wildlife watching. The Montana Territorial Prison Museum is another key historical site, showcasing the town’s 19th-century history and its role in the state’s criminal justice past. Boulder also has a strong arts community, with local galleries and events such as the annual Boulder River Festival celebrating local culture and heritage.
Whitehall
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.60 sq mi
- Population: 1,100 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59759
- Latitude and Longitude: 45.9143° N, 112.1265° W
Location and History
Whitehall is located in the southern part of Jefferson County, Montana, and is situated along the Jefferson River, just east of the Tobacco Root Mountains. Originally established as a railroad stop in the late 19th century, Whitehall grew quickly due to its strategic location on the Northern Pacific Railway. The town was named after Whitehall, New York, and was primarily a service center for the surrounding farming and mining communities. Whitehall’s economy grew with the surrounding agricultural areas and the development of nearby mining operations in the early 20th century. However, as the local mines played out, Whitehall’s economy shifted toward agriculture, especially focusing on wheat and barley production. Today, Whitehall remains a small rural community with a deep connection to its agricultural roots. Its historical downtown area still reflects its early years as a railroad hub, with several buildings dating back to the late 1800s. The town is known for its quiet, scenic location and its proximity to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and hiking.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Whitehall is served by the Jefferson High School District, which includes Whitehall High School, and several elementary schools. The schools in the area have a strong focus on academic excellence and extracurricular activities, particularly sports. The town also has a public library and offers several recreational programs. Major landmarks in Whitehall include the historic Jefferson Valley Museum, which showcases the area’s early settlement history and agricultural development. The Jefferson River is a prime feature of the area, attracting anglers and boaters. The nearby Tobacco Root Mountains provide excellent opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and backcountry skiing. Whitehall is also home to several local parks, which are perfect for picnicking and outdoor recreation. The town hosts annual events, including the Whitehall Days Festival, which celebrates local heritage with a parade, rodeo, and other community activities. The town’s central location between Helena and Butte also makes it a convenient stop for travelers heading to other parts of Montana.
Jefferson City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.23 sq mi
- Population: 200 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59638
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.4154° N, 112.1392° W
Location and History
Jefferson City is one of the smallest communities in Jefferson County, located along the Jefferson River, about 10 miles east of the county seat, Boulder. Founded in the late 19th century, Jefferson City was originally a small agricultural settlement. The town’s early history is tied to the development of local mining in the region, as it served as a supply point for miners working in nearby hills. Despite its early growth as a mining town, Jefferson City never became a large town due to its remote location. Over the years, the town’s economy shifted toward agriculture, with ranching and farming being the primary industries. Today, Jefferson City remains a quiet, rural community that relies on its picturesque location along the Jefferson River. Its small size and close-knit community offer a peaceful lifestyle, and the town has retained much of its historic charm, with several old buildings still standing from its early days as a mining and agricultural hub.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Jefferson City is served by Jefferson High School District, but with such a small population, many students attend schools in nearby Boulder. The town itself has limited public amenities, but it does feature a small community center where local residents gather for meetings and events. The main landmarks in Jefferson City are its rural architecture and proximity to the Jefferson River, which provides recreational activities such as fishing and boating. Nearby, the historic Jefferson River Bridge offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular site for photos. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the surrounding landscape, which includes the nearby Elkhorn Mountains, known for hiking, hunting, and wildlife watching. The small town is known for its tranquil environment and serves as a quiet retreat for those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of larger towns. While Jefferson City may be small, its rural beauty and historical ties to the region’s mining past make it a unique part of Jefferson County.
Basin
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 0.12 sq mi
- Population: 300 (estimated)
- Zip Codes: 59631
- Latitude and Longitude: 46.2883° N, 112.2326° W
Location and History
Basin is a small town located in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountains, in the southern part of Jefferson County, Montana. The town was founded in the 1860s during the mining boom that swept through the region. Originally known as a mining camp, Basin became the center of gold mining activity in the area. The town was named after its location in the valley of Basin Creek, a gold-bearing creek that attracted miners from across the country. Basin grew rapidly during the mining rush, but like many other mining towns, its population declined as gold resources were depleted. Despite this, the town remained a small rural community, transitioning from a mining-based economy to one focused on agriculture and ranching. Today, Basin is a quiet, historical town with a rich mining heritage and scenic surroundings. Its location near the Elkhorn Mountains makes it a popular spot for outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, and camping.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Basin is served by the Jefferson School District, and local students attend Basin School, which serves elementary through high school grades. The school is a central part of the town’s community life, offering various extracurricular activities. Notable landmarks in Basin include the historic mining structures that remain from the town’s gold rush days. The Basin Cemetery is another important historical site, as it is the resting place of several early miners and pioneers. The nearby Elkhorn Mountains offer recreational opportunities for hikers, hunters, and wildlife watchers. Additionally, Basin Creek is a popular spot for fishing, and the surrounding area is rich in natural beauty. Visitors to Basin can enjoy a tranquil, historic experience, with a small-town feel and access to some of the best outdoor recreation in Jefferson County. The town’s unique mining history and scenic location make it a special destination for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike.