Cities and Towns in McDonald County, Missouri

Founded in 1847, McDonald County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, McDonald County was formed from Newton County. The city of Pineville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 119, McDonald County has a population of 23,383 and area of 540 square miles (1,399 km²).

List of all cities in McDonald County, MO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Anderson, MO	64831	417
Goodman, MO	64843	417
Jane, MO	64856	417
Lanagan, MO	64847	417
Noel, MO	64854	417
Pineville, MO	64856	417
Powell, MO	65730	417
Rocky Comfort, MO	64861	417
South West City, MO	64863	417
Tiff City, MO	64868	417

Major Cities and Towns in McDonald County, Missouri

Pineville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.34 sq mi
• Population: 868 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 64856
• Latitude: 36.5772° N
• Longitude: 94.3910° W

Location and History

Pineville is the county seat of McDonald County, located in the southwestern corner of Missouri, near the borders with Arkansas and Oklahoma. Founded in 1837, Pineville served as an important regional center during the 19th century, primarily as a service town for the surrounding mining and farming communities. The town grew as the nearby area became known for its lead and zinc mining, industries that attracted settlers to the area in search of work. The arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s further boosted Pineville’s significance, making it an important transportation hub for the region. However, like many other mining towns, Pineville’s fortunes waned as the mining industry declined in the early 20th century. Despite this, the town continued to serve as the administrative and judicial center of McDonald County. Today, Pineville is a small, rural community with a rich history, often associated with its role in the region’s early mining boom. The town remains an important part of the county, with a local government that oversees the operations of the county courthouse and other key civic functions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Pineville is served by the McDonald County R-1 School District, which includes Pineville Elementary School, along with nearby schools in the county. The district offers a range of programs aimed at academic excellence, including sports and extracurricular activities for students of all ages. One of Pineville’s key landmarks is the McDonald County Courthouse, located in the town square. This historic building has served as the center of county government for over a century and is an essential part of the town’s identity. The courthouse is surrounded by other historical buildings, including several old homes from the town’s early days. The town is also located near the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which offers numerous outdoor recreation opportunities, including canoeing, fishing, and hiking along the nearby streams and rivers. Pineville is a gateway to the natural beauty of the Ozarks, attracting visitors for its outdoor activities. Additionally, the nearby Mark Twain National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and enjoying the Ozark landscape.

Noel

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.14 sq mi
• Population: 1,811 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 64854
• Latitude: 36.5701° N
• Longitude: 94.3875° W

Location and History

Noel is located along the Elk River in McDonald County, near the Missouri-Arkansas border, and is one of the most scenic towns in the region. The town was founded in the late 1800s and was named after an early settler, who gave the town its name in honor of his love for the Christmas holiday (“Noel” meaning Christmas in French). Noel grew rapidly during the late 19th century, initially as a trade center for the surrounding agricultural communities. In the 20th century, the town’s economy became more diversified, with timber, agriculture, and tourism becoming key drivers of local growth. The town’s proximity to the Elk River made it an attractive location for tourists seeking a peaceful retreat in the Ozarks. Today, Noel is known for its vibrant community and its rich cultural heritage, with a population that enjoys a mix of rural life and access to outdoor recreation. The town remains small but has preserved its historic charm and remains a close-knit community where residents celebrate local traditions and events.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Noel is served by the Noel R-4 School District, which includes Noel Elementary School and Noel High School. The district is known for its strong educational programs and offers a variety of extracurricular opportunities, including sports teams and music programs. One of Noel’s most notable landmarks is the historic Noel Train Depot, which was a vital part of the town’s growth during the early 20th century. The depot is still standing and has been restored, becoming a symbol of the town’s early days. Another significant landmark is the Elk River, which provides numerous outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, kayaking, and rafting. Noel is also located near the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, which draws tourists for its scenic beauty, offering opportunities for hiking, canoeing, and camping. The Noel Christmas Festival is another key local event, where the community celebrates the town’s namesake holiday with parades, decorations, and festivities. With its combination of outdoor beauty and small-town charm, Noel continues to be a beloved destination in the Ozarks.

Anderson

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.07 sq mi
• Population: 1,867 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 64831
• Latitude: 36.5569° N
• Longitude: 94.4687° W

Location and History

Anderson is situated in the southeastern part of McDonald County, Missouri, and serves as the largest town in the county after Pineville. Established in the 1870s, Anderson initially grew as a small farming community before becoming a significant regional trade center, especially after the completion of the railroad in the late 1800s. Like many other towns in southwest Missouri, Anderson was deeply influenced by the region’s agricultural economy, with crops such as corn and soybeans playing a major role in the local economy. In the 20th century, the town’s location near the Arkansas border allowed it to maintain strong economic and cultural ties to both Missouri and neighboring states. Today, Anderson serves as the commercial hub of McDonald County, providing services and retail opportunities to the surrounding rural areas. While the town has transitioned from an agricultural focus to a more diversified economy, agriculture continues to play an important role in the community.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Anderson is served by the McDonald County R-1 School District, which includes Anderson Elementary School and Anderson High School. The district offers a range of academic programs, with a focus on student achievement and preparing young people for success in both higher education and the workforce. One of Anderson’s prominent landmarks is the McDonald County Fairgrounds, which hosts the annual McDonald County Fair. This event features livestock shows, local artisans, food vendors, and entertainment for all ages. The fairgrounds also serve as a venue for other community events and festivals throughout the year. Another key feature of Anderson is the Ozark Highlands Nature Trail, which provides a scenic route through the Ozark Mountains and attracts outdoor enthusiasts from around the region. Anderson’s small but vibrant downtown area is also home to local shops and restaurants, making it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike. With its strong agricultural heritage, rich local culture, and beautiful natural surroundings, Anderson continues to serve as an important community in McDonald County.