Cities and Towns in Jessamine County, Kentucky
Founded in 1798, Jessamine County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Jessamine County was formed from Fayette County. The city of Nicholasville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 113, Jessamine County has a population of 53,626 and area of 173 square miles (448 km²).
List of all cities in Jessamine County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Keene, KY | 40339 | 859 |
| Nicholasville, KY | 40340 | 859 |
| Nicholasville, KY | 40356 | 859 |
| Versailles, KY | 40390 | 859 |
| Wilmore, KY | 40390 | 859 |
Major Cities and Towns in Jessamine County, Kentucky
Nicholasville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 13.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 31,000 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40356
- Latitude: 37.8834° N
- Longitude: 84.5720° W
Location and History
Nicholasville, the county seat and largest city of Jessamine County, is located just south of Lexington in central Kentucky. Founded in 1798 and named after Colonel George Nicholas, one of the state’s founders and known as the “Father of the Kentucky Constitution,” Nicholasville developed as a small agricultural center. During the 19th century, it grew steadily due to its proximity to Lexington and the fertile lands that supported tobacco farming, livestock, and other agricultural activities. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further spurred growth, turning Nicholasville into a commercial and transportation hub for the surrounding agricultural region. Today, Nicholasville is a fast-growing city, with suburban development driven by its proximity to Lexington and a strong local economy based on agriculture, light industry, and retail.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Nicholasville is served by the Jessamine County School District, with notable institutions such as East Jessamine High School, West Jessamine High School, and Nicholasville Elementary. Major landmarks in the city include the Camp Nelson National Monument, a Civil War-era site that served as a Union supply depot and recruitment center for African-American soldiers. The historic downtown area, with its mix of 19th-century architecture and modern businesses, reflects Nicholasville’s growth over the years. Another important site is the Kentucky Wine & Vine Fest, held annually, which celebrates the region’s growing wine industry. The city’s location near the Kentucky River Palisades also makes it a prime area for outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking.
Wilmore
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 2.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,500 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40390
- Latitude: 37.8634° N
- Longitude: 84.6616° W
Location and History
Wilmore is a small city located in the western part of Jessamine County, known for its strong religious and educational heritage. Established in the late 19th century, Wilmore began as a small farming community. However, the city’s history is closely tied to Asbury University, which was founded in 1890 by Methodist evangelist John Wesley Hughes. The university quickly became the heart of the community, drawing students, faculty, and visitors from across the country. Asbury Theological Seminary, founded in 1923, further cemented Wilmore’s reputation as a center for Christian education and spiritual life. Despite its small size, Wilmore has gained national recognition due to its educational institutions and its commitment to maintaining a close-knit, faith-centered community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wilmore is home to two major educational institutions: Asbury University and Asbury Theological Seminary, both of which have a significant impact on the town’s culture and economy. Key landmarks include the historic Hughes Auditorium on the campus of Asbury University, known for its traditional chapel services and spiritual events. Another important site is High Bridge Park, located nearby, which offers stunning views of the Kentucky River and the iconic High Bridge, one of the highest railroad bridges in the world. Wilmore also hosts the annual Ichthus Music Festival, a Christian music event that draws visitors from across the region. With its combination of academic and religious life, Wilmore stands out as a unique and vibrant community in Jessamine County.
Keene
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 0.3 square miles
- Population: Around 500 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40339
- Latitude: 37.9084° N
- Longitude: 84.6642° W
Location and History
Keene is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Jessamine County, near the border with Fayette County. The town was established in the early 1800s and named after Keene, New Hampshire, from where many of its early settlers originated. Keene developed as a rural farming community, with local residents engaged in tobacco, corn, and livestock farming. The town remained small throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, and it has retained much of its rural charm, with historic homes and churches still dotting the landscape. Keene is known for its picturesque countryside and its quiet, close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Keene is served by the Jessamine County School District, with students attending nearby schools in Nicholasville. Notable landmarks in Keene include the historic Keene Springs Hotel, which once served travelers and locals alike in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The town’s small size and rural setting provide a scenic backdrop for outdoor activities such as horseback riding and hiking. Keene is also located near the Kentucky River Palisades, offering additional opportunities for nature exploration. The town’s peaceful atmosphere and proximity to larger cities like Lexington and Nicholasville make it an appealing destination for those seeking a quiet, rural lifestyle.
Valley View
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: Approximately 0.2 square miles
- Population: Around 200 (as of 2023)
- Zip Codes: 40356
- Latitude: 37.8487° N
- Longitude: 84.5512° W
Location and History
Valley View is a small, unincorporated community located along the Kentucky River in the northern part of Jessamine County, near the border with Madison County. The town was named for its scenic views of the river valley and the surrounding rolling hills. Valley View developed as a small farming community, with its economy largely centered on agriculture and river trade. One of the town’s key features is the Valley View Ferry, which has been in continuous operation since 1785 and is one of the oldest ferries still in operation in the United States. Valley View remains a small, rural community with a rich historical connection to the Kentucky River.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Valley View is served by the Jessamine County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Nicholasville and Wilmore. The most prominent landmark in Valley View is the historic Valley View Ferry, which provides transportation across the Kentucky River between Jessamine and Madison Counties. The ferry offers a unique glimpse into Kentucky’s early transportation history and remains a vital connection for residents and visitors alike. The town’s location along the river provides opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying the natural beauty of the Kentucky River Palisades. Valley View’s combination of history, natural scenery, and quiet rural living make it a distinctive community within Jessamine County.
