Cities and Towns in Lanier County, Georgia
Founded in 1920, Lanier County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Lanier County was formed from Berrien, Clinch and Lowndes Countries. The city of Lakeland is the county seat. With FIPS code of 173, Lanier County has a population of 9,907 and area of 187 square miles (484 km²).
List of all cities in Lanier County, GA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Lakeland, GA | 31635 | 229 |
| Stockton, GA | 31649 | 229 |
Major Cities and Towns in Lanier County, Georgia
Lakeland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 3.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 3,300 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 31635
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.0416° N, 83.0710° W
Location and History
Lakeland is the county seat and largest city in Lanier County, Georgia, located in the southern part of the state. The city was originally named Milltown when it was incorporated in 1925, reflecting its early roots as a mill town. In 1925, the name was changed to Lakeland to highlight its proximity to several nearby lakes, including Banks Lake and Lake Irma, which are significant natural landmarks in the region. Lakeland grew steadily as an agricultural and commercial center, with its economy historically based on farming, particularly tobacco, cotton, and pine products. The city is known for its charming downtown area, which features murals depicting scenes from the city’s history. Lakeland has preserved much of its small-town character while serving as the administrative and economic hub of Lanier County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lakeland is served by the Lanier County School District, which includes Lanier County High School, Lanier County Middle School, and Lanier County Elementary School. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the Lanier County Courthouse, built in 1925, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse, with its Classical Revival architecture, is a focal point of the city and serves as a symbol of the county’s heritage. Another key attraction is Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge, a large freshwater wetland that offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and wildlife observation. Lakeland’s combination of historical significance, educational resources, and natural beauty makes it the heart of Lanier County.
Stockton
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximately 1,000 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 31649
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.9057° N, 83.0143° W
Location and History
Stockton is a small, unincorporated community located in Lanier County, Georgia, near the border with Lowndes County. The community was established in the late 19th century and developed as a rural farming area, with its economy traditionally centered around agriculture, particularly tobacco and cotton. Stockton’s growth was closely tied to the expansion of the railroad, which provided a means for transporting goods to larger markets. Despite its small size, Stockton has maintained a strong sense of community and has preserved its rural character, with many of its residents involved in farming and related industries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stockton is served by the Lanier County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Lakeland, such as Lanier County High School. The community’s landmarks include several historic churches and old farmhouses that reflect its agricultural heritage. The nearby Banks Lake National Wildlife Refuge provides opportunities for outdoor activities, including birdwatching, fishing, and boating. Stockton’s annual events, such as local church gatherings and community fairs, highlight the town’s strong sense of tradition and community spirit. Stockton’s rural charm, historical significance, and close-knit community make it an important part of Lanier County.
Ray City
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (as of the 2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 31645
- Latitude and Longitude: 31.0757° N, 83.1890° W
Location and History
Ray City is a small town located in Lanier County, Georgia, just to the north of Lakeland. The town was incorporated in 1909 and was named after the Ray family, early settlers in the area who played a significant role in its development. Ray City grew as a small agricultural community, with its economy based on farming, particularly tobacco and cotton, and later, the timber industry. The town’s growth was modest, and it has maintained much of its small-town charm and rural character. Ray City is known for its historic buildings and strong sense of community, with many families having lived in the area for generations.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ray City is served by the Lanier County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Lakeland, including Lanier County High School. The town is home to several historic landmarks, including the Ray City Depot, which served as a key transportation hub in the early 20th century, and the historic Little River Methodist Church, established in the late 19th century. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and exploring the natural beauty of the area. Ray City’s annual events, including local fairs and community picnics, reflect the town’s strong sense of tradition and close-knit community spirit. Ray City’s historical roots, rural charm, and community values make it a valued part of Lanier County.
Map of Cities in Lanier County, GA
