Cities and Towns in Madison County, Tennessee

Founded in 1821, Madison County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Madison County was formed from Indian lands. The city of Jackson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 113, Madison County has a population of 98,775 and area of 557 square miles (1,443 km²).

List of all cities in Madison County, TN alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Beech Bluff, TN 38313 731
Bemis, TN 38314 731
Denmark, TN 38391 731
Jackson, TN 38301 731
38302 731
38303 731
38305 731
38308 731
38314 731
Medon, TN 38356 731
Mercer, TN 38392 731
Oakfield, TN 38362 731
Pinson, TN 38366 731
Spring Creek, TN 38378 731

Major Cities and Towns in Madison County, Tennessee

Madison County, Tennessee, is home to several key cities and towns, each with its own unique history, culture, and characteristics. Below are detailed descriptions of some of the most notable cities and towns in the county.


Jackson

General Information

  • Area: 54.84 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 67,000 (2023 estimate)
  • Zip Codes: 38301, 38305, 38308, 38312
  • Latitude/Longitude: 35.6149° N / 88.8130° W

City Location and History

Jackson is the county seat of Madison County and is located in the southwestern part of the state. It lies about halfway between Memphis and Nashville, making it a strategic transportation hub. Founded in 1821 and named after Andrew Jackson, the seventh president of the United States, the city has grown from a small agricultural center to a regional commercial and industrial hub. Jackson’s history is marked by its role as a center for cotton production in the 19th century and its involvement in the Civil War, where it was occupied by Union forces in 1863. Over the years, Jackson has diversified its economy, with a focus on manufacturing, healthcare, and education. It also became a key player in the development of the railroad industry, which contributed to its growth during the late 19th century.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jackson is home to several important educational institutions, including Union University, a private Christian university that is one of the largest in the region. The city also has public schools operated by the Jackson-Madison County School System, such as North Side High School and South Side High School. Major landmarks in Jackson include the Cypress Grove Nature Park, which offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities, and the Casey Jones Village, a historic site that pays tribute to the famous railroad engineer. The International Rock-A-Billy Hall of Fame celebrates the city’s musical history, and The Old Hickory Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the area.


Medina

General Information

  • Area: 5.72 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,200
  • Zip Code: 38355
  • Latitude/Longitude: 35.5897° N / 88.9565° W

City Location and History

Medina, located to the north of Jackson, is a small but growing town in Madison County. Incorporated in 1867, Medina was originally a rural settlement. It was primarily agricultural in nature, with cotton and tobacco farming playing significant roles in its economy during its early years. The town was named after Medina, Ohio, and grew slowly until the mid-20th century when suburban development began to reach the area. Over the last few decades, Medina has experienced steady growth, thanks in part to its proximity to Jackson. Today, Medina retains a small-town charm, while benefiting from the economic opportunities available in the nearby city. The town’s residents enjoy a quieter, more rural lifestyle, with access to the amenities of Jackson just a short drive away.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Medina’s education system is served by Medina Elementary School, Medina Middle School, and Medina High School, all of which are part of the Madison County School District. The town has a close-knit community, and its schools are an important part of its social fabric. Medina is home to a few local parks, including the Medina City Park, which offers outdoor recreation such as sports fields, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Although Medina is smaller than Jackson, it is known for its family-friendly atmosphere and its efforts to maintain a rural aesthetic while adapting to modern needs. Local landmarks include the Medina Community Center, which hosts a variety of local events and functions, helping to foster community spirit.


Humboldt

General Information

  • Area: 9.4 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 8,000
  • Zip Code: 38343
  • Latitude/Longitude: 35.8016° N / 88.9301° W

City Location and History

Humboldt, located northeast of Jackson, was founded in the mid-19th century and has evolved into a key small city in Madison County. The town was officially incorporated in 1870 and is named after Humboldt, Tennessee’s famous German-born philanthropist, who helped establish the city’s initial infrastructure. Historically, the city was known for its agricultural activities, particularly cotton farming, and its strategic location along the railroads that connected Tennessee with other parts of the South. Humboldt was also an important center for the timber industry in the early 20th century. Over time, it became a center for commerce and local industry, and it continues to serve as an important town in the county’s economy.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Humboldt is served by Humboldt City Schools, which include Humboldt High School, Humboldt Junior High, and East Elementary School. Education plays a vital role in the community, and local students benefit from strong public school programs. The city is known for its Humboldt City Park, which features sports fields, walking trails, and a large pond. One of the most notable landmarks in Humboldt is the Tennessee Soybean Festival, which has been held annually since 1982, drawing thousands of visitors to the town. The festival celebrates Humboldt’s agricultural roots and includes events, entertainment, and a parade. The Humboldt Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, preserves many of the town’s early 20th-century buildings and offers a glimpse into its rich past.


Three Way

General Information

  • Area: 5.23 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,100
  • Zip Code: 38343
  • Latitude/Longitude: 35.7494° N / 88.8373° W

City Location and History

Three Way is a small town located to the west of Jackson. Its name comes from the convergence of three roads in the area, which provided the town with its unique identity. The town was incorporated in 2001, making it one of the youngest cities in Madison County. Historically, Three Way developed as a rural community with a focus on agriculture, and its growth has been slow but steady over the years. Due to its location near Jackson, Three Way has benefited from the broader economic growth in the county. Today, it maintains a quiet, small-town atmosphere, but it is increasingly seeing suburban developments as people look for more affordable housing options near Jackson.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Three Way is part of the Madison County School District, with students attending nearby schools in Jackson. The town does not have its own major schools but shares services with Jackson’s educational system. In terms of landmarks, Three Way is largely residential, but it is close to the Cypress Grove Nature Park and other outdoor areas that are popular for recreational activities. While not a major tourist destination, its proximity to Jackson allows residents and visitors to enjoy both the peace of a small town and the amenities of a larger city. The town’s Three Way Community Center is a focal point for local events and activities, helping to build a sense of community in this growing area.