Cities and Towns in Marshall County, Kentucky
Founded in 1842, Marshall County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Marshall County was formed from Calloway County. The city of Benton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 157, Marshall County has a population of 31,748 and area of 305 square miles (790 km²).
List of all cities in Marshall County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Aurora, KY | 42048 | 270 |
| Benton, KY | 42025 | 270 |
| Calvert City, KY | 42029 | 270 |
| Draffenville, KY | 42025 | 270 |
| Fairdealing, KY | 42025 | 270 |
| Gilbertsville, KY | 42044 | 270 |
| Hardin, KY | 42048 | 270 |
| Palma, KY | 42025 | 270 |
| Sharpe, KY | 42025 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Marshall County, Kentucky
Benton
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: 4.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,400 residents
- Zip Code: 42025
- Latitude: 36.8570° N
- Longitude: 88.3503° W
City Location and History:
Benton, the county seat of Marshall County, is located in western Kentucky, about 20 miles southeast of Paducah. Established in 1842 and named after U.S. Senator Thomas Hart Benton, the city grew as a center for local commerce and government services. Benton has long been a hub for agricultural trade, with corn, tobacco, and livestock playing major roles in its early development. The town’s central location within the county made it a natural choice as the county seat. Over the years, Benton has retained much of its small-town charm while adapting to modern growth, with the local economy diversifying into retail, education, and manufacturing sectors. The city is known for its strong community spirit, particularly during the annual Tater Day Festival, one of the oldest festivals in Kentucky.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Benton is home to several schools, including Benton Elementary and South Marshall Middle School, with high school students attending Marshall County High School in nearby Draffenville. Major landmarks include the Marshall County Courthouse, which anchors the town square, and Mike Miller County Park, offering recreational activities such as walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. Benton’s Tater Day Festival, held every spring, is a celebrated tradition, featuring parades, arts and crafts, and food vendors. The town’s proximity to Kentucky Lake also makes it a popular destination for outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and camping.
Calvert City
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: 13.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,600 residents
- Zip Code: 42029
- Latitude: 37.0331° N
- Longitude: 88.3503° W
City Location and History:
Calvert City is located in the northern part of Marshall County, along the Tennessee River, near Kentucky Lake and Lake Barkley. Founded in 1871 and named after Potilla Calvert, the town initially developed as a railroad stop and small farming community. However, the construction of the Kentucky Dam in the 1940s transformed the town into an industrial center, attracting chemical plants and manufacturing facilities. Today, Calvert City is known for its strong industrial base, with numerous chemical and energy companies providing employment to the region. Despite its industrial growth, Calvert City has maintained its residential appeal, offering a balance between work and recreation thanks to its proximity to the lakes and state parks.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Calvert City is served by Calvert City Elementary School, with older students attending North Marshall Middle School and Marshall County High School. The town’s landmarks include Memorial Park, which features a war memorial and hosts community events, and the Calvert City Country Club, offering golf and social gatherings. Kentucky Dam, located just outside the city, is a major attraction, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking. The town also hosts annual events like Calvert City’s Ameribration, a Fourth of July celebration that includes fireworks, parades, and live entertainment.
Hardin
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: 1.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 600 residents
- Zip Code: 42048
- Latitude: 36.7659° N
- Longitude: 88.2964° W
City Location and History:
Hardin is a small town located in the southeastern part of Marshall County, about 10 miles from Benton. Established in the late 19th century, Hardin grew as a rural farming community. The town was named after the Hardin family, who were early settlers in the region. While agriculture, particularly tobacco and corn, was central to its economy in the past, Hardin has since become a quiet residential town with a peaceful, rural atmosphere. Its location near both Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes makes it an attractive spot for those who enjoy outdoor recreation and a slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Hardin’s younger students attend South Marshall Elementary and South Marshall Middle School, with high school students traveling to Marshall County High School in Benton. The town’s landmarks include the Hardin Baptist Church, which has served as a community gathering place for decades, and the Hardin Community Center, which hosts local events and activities. Hardin’s proximity to Kentucky Lake offers residents and visitors easy access to boating, fishing, and camping, making it a gateway to outdoor adventures. The town also celebrates its agricultural roots through local fairs and community gatherings, preserving its small-town charm.
Draffenville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 1,000 residents
- Zip Code: 42025
- Latitude: 36.9273° N
- Longitude: 88.3400° W
City Location and History:
Draffenville is an unincorporated community in the central part of Marshall County, located at the intersection of U.S. Route 68 and Interstate 69. The community grew in the mid-20th century as a commercial hub for the surrounding rural areas, serving as a crossroads for travelers heading to Kentucky Lake. Draffenville’s location near the lake and state parks has made it a popular spot for tourism and recreation. Over the years, the town has developed a range of businesses, restaurants, and services, catering both to locals and visitors. Draffenville is also known for being the home of Marshall County High School, making it an important educational center for the county.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Draffenville is home to Marshall County High School, the largest high school in the county, and Central Elementary School. The community’s landmarks include the Kentucky Opry, a popular venue that showcases live country, gospel, and bluegrass music performances. Nearby Mike Miller County Park offers a wide range of recreational facilities, including sports fields, walking trails, and playgrounds. Draffenville’s proximity to Kentucky Lake and Land Between the Lakes provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities, such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The town also hosts community events, such as local festivals and sporting events, that bring together residents and visitors alike.
Gilbertsville
Area, Population, and Zip Codes:
- Area: Unincorporated community
- Population: Approximately 300 residents
- Zip Code: 42044
- Latitude: 37.0242° N
- Longitude: 88.3034° W
City Location and History:
Gilbertsville is a small, unincorporated community in northern Marshall County, located near the Kentucky Dam and Kentucky Lake. The town was established in the early 20th century and was originally a railroad and agricultural community. However, the construction of the Kentucky Dam in the 1940s transformed Gilbertsville into a major tourist destination. The creation of Kentucky Lake, one of the largest man-made lakes in the United States, brought tourism and recreational opportunities to the area, attracting visitors from across the region. Today, Gilbertsville is known for its access to boating, fishing, and water sports, as well as its scenic views of the lake.
Major Schools and Landmarks:
Gilbertsville’s students attend Calvert City Elementary School, with older students going to North Marshall Middle School and Marshall County High School. The town’s landmarks include Kentucky Dam Village State Resort Park, which offers a wide range of recreational activities, including golf, swimming, and hiking, as well as lodging and dining options for tourists. The Kentucky Dam Marina is a popular spot for boating and fishing, and the nearby Land Between the Lakes National Recreation Area provides additional opportunities for camping, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Gilbertsville is a gateway to outdoor adventure and a favorite destination for water sports enthusiasts.