Cities and Towns in Laurens County, South Carolina
Founded in 1785, Laurens County is one of 46 counties in the state of South Carolina. Historically, Laurens County was formed from Ninety-Six District. The city of Laurens is the county seat. With FIPS code of 59, Laurens County has a population of 67,803 and area of 724 square miles (1,875 km²).
List of all cities in Laurens County, SC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Clinton, SC | 29325 | 864 |
| Cross Hill, SC | 29332 | 864 |
| Gray Court, SC | 29645 | 864 |
| Joanna, SC | 29351 | 864 |
| Laurens, SC | 29360 | 864 |
| Mountville, SC | 29370 | 864 |
| Ora, SC | 29645 | 864 |
| Waterloo, SC | 29384 | 864 |
Major Cities and Towns in Laurens County, South Carolina
Laurens, South Carolina
Location and History
Laurens is the county seat of Laurens County and is located in the Upstate region of South Carolina, approximately 50 miles southeast of Greenville. Founded in 1785 and incorporated in 1824, the city was named after John Laurens, a Revolutionary War hero and South Carolina native. Laurens has a rich history, serving as an important commercial and industrial hub in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Its location along the Saluda River made it a prime area for agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The city was once home to various mills and factories, which contributed to its growth. Laurens also has a deep Civil War history, with several skirmishes fought in the area, and many historical sites that commemorate the role of the city during that time. Today, Laurens maintains its historic charm while developing as a regional center for commerce, education, and culture in the Upstate.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Laurens is home to several key educational institutions, including Laurens District 55 High School and Laurens Academy, both providing a range of academic programs for students. The city is also near Piedmont Technical College, which offers vocational training and higher education opportunities. In terms of landmarks, Laurens is known for the historic Laurens County Courthouse, a beautiful neoclassical building that stands as a symbol of the city’s long-standing legal and civic importance. The Laurens County Museum, located in the old jailhouse, offers a look into the region’s past, including exhibits on Native American history, the Civil War, and the city’s industrial history. The city also boasts the Laurens City Park, a popular gathering spot with walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas.
Key Statistics
- Area: 6.8 square miles
- Population: 9,000 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 29360, 29341
- Latitude: 34.5005° N
- Longitude: 81.9867° W
Clinton, South Carolina
Location and History
Clinton, located in the western part of Laurens County, is a charming town with a rich history, first established in the early 19th century. The town was originally known as “Jenkinsville” after the Jenkins family, who settled in the area. It was later renamed Clinton in honor of New York Governor DeWitt Clinton, who supported the construction of the Greenville and Columbia Railroad, which ran through the town. Clinton’s growth was largely tied to its strategic location along the railroad, which made it an important center for cotton trading in the 19th century. Over time, the city evolved into a more industrialized area, with textiles becoming a major part of its economy. Today, Clinton blends its historic charm with modern development, and its economy is driven by education, healthcare, and light manufacturing.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clinton is home to Presbyterian College, a private liberal arts institution founded in 1880. The college plays a central role in the town, offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Clinton High School serves the local community, providing educational opportunities for younger students. Key landmarks in Clinton include the beautiful Old Clinton Cemetery, which houses the graves of many early settlers, and the Presbyterian College campus, which is noted for its picturesque architecture and the scenic Bailey Memorial Stadium. The city is also home to the Clinton City Hall and the Clinton Museum, both of which highlight the town’s deep history, from its antebellum roots to its industrial rise.
Key Statistics
- Area: 8.6 square miles
- Population: 8,000 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 29325
- Latitude: 34.4494° N
- Longitude: 81.8750° W
Gray Court, South Carolina
Location and History
Gray Court is a small, rural town located in the southern part of Laurens County, approximately 10 miles from the city of Laurens. The town was founded in the early 19th century, and its name comes from the Gray family, early settlers in the area. Gray Court has remained a relatively quiet and small community throughout its history, with agriculture being a central part of the economy, particularly cotton farming in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The town’s growth has been modest compared to nearby cities, but it remains an important part of Laurens County’s rural landscape. Its strategic location near major highways and proximity to both Laurens and Greenville have contributed to the area’s gradual suburban development in recent years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Though small, Gray Court offers a few educational resources, including the Gray Court-Owings School, which serves as a hub for local students. The town does not have major college or university institutions, but it benefits from the proximity of higher education facilities in nearby cities like Laurens and Greenville. There are not many large-scale landmarks in Gray Court, but the town features several historic homes and sites that reflect its rural heritage. One such landmark is the Gray Court Community Center, which hosts events and gatherings for locals. The nearby Lake Rabon is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation, drawing visitors to the area.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.8 square miles
- Population: 1,000 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 29645
- Latitude: 34.5081° N
- Longitude: 81.9402° W
Cross Hill, South Carolina
Location and History
Cross Hill is a small town located in the northeastern part of Laurens County, near the border with Greenwood County. The town’s name is derived from its location at the intersection of two major roads, forming a “cross” of sorts. Cross Hill was officially incorporated in 1881, and like many small towns in the region, it has deep agricultural roots, particularly in cotton and tobacco farming. The town experienced some growth in the 19th and early 20th centuries, but its population has remained relatively stable. Over the years, Cross Hill has maintained its rural charm and is considered a gateway to the nearby Lake Hartwell, a popular recreational destination.
Major Schools and Landmarks
The town is served by the Laurens County School District, with Cross Hill Elementary School being one of the main educational institutions for younger students. High school students typically attend schools in nearby towns. Although small, Cross Hill is home to a number of notable landmarks, including the historic Cross Hill Methodist Church, which has served as a spiritual center for the community for over a century. Another important landmark is the Lake Hartwell area, which offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking, attracting visitors from around the region. Cross Hill also hosts several annual events, including community festivals and local markets.
Key Statistics
- Area: 1.6 square miles
- Population: 800 (2020 census)
- Zip Codes: 29332
- Latitude: 34.2681° N
- Longitude: 81.7783° W