Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Texas
Founded in 1836, Jefferson County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Jefferson County was one of the original 23 counties. The city of Beaumont is the county seat. With FIPS code of 245, Jefferson County has a population of 253,704 and area of 904 square miles (2,341 km²).
List of all cities in Jefferson County, TX alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Beaumont, TX | 77701 | 409 |
| 77702 | 409 | |
| 77703 | 409 | |
| 77704 | 409 | |
| 77705 | 409 | |
| 77706 | 409 | |
| 77707 | 409 | |
| 77708 | 409 | |
| 77709 | 409 | |
| 77710 | 409 | |
| 77713 | 409 | |
| 77720 | 409 | |
| 77725 | 409 | |
| 77726 | 409 | |
| Cheek, TX | 77705 | 409 |
| China, TX | 77613 | 409 |
| Fannett, TX | 77705 | 409 |
| Griffing, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Griffing Park, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Groves, TX | 77619 | 409 |
| Hamshire, TX | 77622 | 409 |
| Lakeview, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Lamar University, TX | 77707 | 409 |
| Nederland, TX | 77627 | 409 |
| Nome, TX | 77629 | 409 |
| Pear Ridge, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Point Acres, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Port Acres, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Port Arthur, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| 77641 | 409 | |
| 77642 | 409 | |
| 77643 | 409 | |
| Port Neches, TX | 77651 | 409 |
| Sabine, TX | 77640 | 409 |
| Sabine Pass, TX | 77655 | 409 |
| Steeltown, TX | 77619 | 409 |
| Taylor Landing, TX | 77705 | 409 |
| West Port Arthur, TX | 77640 | 409 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jefferson County, Texas
Beaumont, Texas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 85.4 square miles
- Population: 118,000+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 77701, 77702, 77703, 77705, 77706, 77707
- Latitude: 30.0802° N
- Longitude: 94.1266° W
City Location and History
Beaumont is the largest city and county seat of Jefferson County, located in the southeastern part of Texas, approximately 90 miles east of Houston. The city sits along the Neches River, which played a significant role in its development. Beaumont was founded in 1835 but experienced rapid growth after the discovery of oil in 1901 at the Spindletop oil field, which marked the beginning of the Texas oil boom. The discovery transformed Beaumont from a small settlement into a booming industrial center, attracting workers and investors from across the country. By the early 20th century, the city became known as the “City of Oil” and helped establish Texas as a major player in the global energy market. While Beaumont’s economy remains tied to the oil and petrochemical industries, the city also boasts a diverse economic base, including manufacturing, shipping, and healthcare. Throughout the 20th century, Beaumont developed into a regional hub for culture, commerce, and education. The city is also known for its historical significance, particularly in the early days of the oil industry and its role as a cultural and economic center in Southeast Texas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Beaumont is served by several school districts, including Beaumont Independent School District and Calder School District, with major educational institutions like Beaumont High School, Ozen High School, and West Brook High School. The city is home to several major landmarks, reflecting its rich history and cultural diversity. Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum, located at the site of the historic Spindletop oil discovery, offers exhibits on the early days of the Texas oil industry. Another key attraction is the Beaumont Art Museum, which features a collection of modern and contemporary art. The McFaddin-Ward House, an early 20th-century mansion, offers a glimpse into the lives of Beaumont’s elite during the oil boom. The Neches River, which flows through the city, provides recreational opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Beaumont also boasts a variety of outdoor parks, including Cattail Marsh Wetlands, a birdwatching paradise. Additionally, Lamar University, located in Beaumont, is a major higher education institution that contributes to the city’s academic and cultural life. The city’s historic downtown district, filled with restored buildings and local restaurants, adds to its charm.
Port Arthur, Texas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 81.5 square miles
- Population: 54,000+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 77640, 77642, 77643
- Latitude: 29.8833° N
- Longitude: 93.9390° W
City Location and History
Port Arthur, located along the Sabine Lake and the Neches River, is a coastal city in southeastern Texas, about 90 miles east of Houston. Founded in 1895 as a deep-water port for the region, the city quickly grew into an industrial hub, particularly for the oil and petrochemical industries. It became a key location for the refining of oil after the discovery of oil in the region during the early 20th century. Port Arthur is home to some of the largest refineries in the U.S., and the petrochemical industry remains a significant contributor to the local economy. Throughout its history, Port Arthur has been home to a mix of diverse communities, with a strong African American population and significant influence from Cajun and Creole cultures. Over the years, the city has seen periods of economic highs and lows, with natural disasters like Hurricane Rita and Hurricane Harvey impacting the community. Despite these challenges, Port Arthur remains a vibrant community with a rich cultural heritage. The city’s economy is still heavily reliant on the oil industry, but it is also investing in tourism and recreation, making the most of its scenic waterfront location.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Port Arthur is served by the Port Arthur Independent School District, which includes Port Arthur Memorial High School, Thomas Jefferson High School, and Stephen F. Austin Middle School. The city is also home to Lamar State College-Port Arthur, a two-year college that offers a variety of academic programs. One of Port Arthur’s major landmarks is the Museum of the Gulf Coast, which showcases the region’s history and culture, including exhibits on local oil history, the Texas coastline, and notable figures like singer Janis Joplin, who was born in Port Arthur. The Sabine Pass Lighthouse is another iconic landmark, representing Port Arthur’s maritime heritage. Port Arthur is also home to Sea Rim State Park, a coastal park that offers visitors opportunities for swimming, birdwatching, fishing, and picnicking. The Martin Luther King Jr. Park, with its community center and outdoor spaces, is a key location for cultural events. Additionally, the Port Arthur Canal, which connects the city to the Gulf of Mexico, plays an essential role in the area’s maritime and industrial activities.
Nederland, Texas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 11.6 square miles
- Population: 18,000+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 77627
- Latitude: 29.9676° N
- Longitude: 93.9740° W
City Location and History
Nederland is a city located in the central part of Jefferson County, situated between Port Arthur and Beaumont. It was founded in 1836 by Dutch immigrants, who named the town after their homeland, “Nederland” (meaning “Netherlands”). The early settlers were primarily farmers, and the town’s economy was initially based on agriculture. In the early 20th century, Nederland began to experience growth as the surrounding area developed with the discovery of oil and the expansion of the railroads. The city’s economy became more industrialized with the rise of the petrochemical and refining industries, and it is now an integral part of the Golden Triangle, the region known for its significant oil refineries and chemical plants. Nederland maintains its small-town charm, offering a peaceful atmosphere with proximity to the larger industrial centers of Port Arthur and Beaumont. Today, the city is known for its strong Dutch heritage, which is celebrated annually with the Nederland Heritage Festival.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nederland is served by the Nederland Independent School District, which includes Nederland High School, Nederland Middle School, and Hillcrest Elementary School. The city is home to several landmarks that celebrate its Dutch heritage and local history. The Dutch Windmill Museum is a unique museum that showcases the city’s cultural connection to the Netherlands, with exhibits on Dutch immigration and the role of windmills in European history. Another key landmark is Cypress Bayou Park, a popular recreational area for residents and visitors, offering walking trails, fishing spots, and sports facilities. The Heritage Festival, held each year, celebrates the city’s Dutch roots with traditional food, music, and parades. Nederland also has several historical homes and buildings in its downtown area, some of which date back to the early 20th century. The City Park, with its community center and playgrounds, is a popular location for family gatherings and outdoor events. Though small, Nederland offers a welcoming community with deep cultural roots and a rich history tied to both Dutch immigration and the industrial boom of Southeast Texas.
China, Texas
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.3 square miles
- Population: 1,200+ (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 77613
- Latitude: 30.0878° N
- Longitude: 93.8013° W
City Location and History
China, Texas, is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Jefferson County, near the intersection of Highway 90 and Highway 69. The town’s name is believed to have originated from an early settler who was either from China or had connections to the country, though the exact origin remains uncertain. Established in the late 19th century, China initially served as a farming and ranching settlement, with a small population. Over time, China became part of the region’s agricultural landscape, with crops such as rice, cotton, and vegetables being key to its economy. Despite its small size, the town’s location near larger cities like Beaumont and Port Arthur allowed it to remain a quiet, rural community. Today, China serves as a quiet residential area with limited commercial development, with much of its population commuting to nearby cities for work. The town’s rural charm and proximity to larger industrial centers make it an attractive location for those seeking a peaceful lifestyle in Southeast Texas.
Major Schools and Landmarks
China is served by the Hamshire-Fannett Independent School District, with students attending Hamshire-Fannett High School and Hamshire-Fannett Junior High School. While China does not have many landmarks of its own, its proximity to Beaumont and Port Arthur offers easy access to many regional attractions. The China Baptist Church, a historic landmark in the town, continues to serve as a focal point for the local community. China is also located near Cypress Bayou, which offers opportunities for fishing and outdoor activities. Additionally, Babe Zaharias Park in nearby Port Arthur is a popular destination for residents of China, with hiking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Big Thicket National Preserve, located to the north, is another notable attraction, offering hiking and wildlife viewing in a protected natural environment. Though small, China provides access to some of Southeast Texas’ most scenic areas and remains a peaceful spot for those who value rural living.
