Cities and Towns in Medina County, Texas
Founded in 1848, Medina County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Medina County was formed from Bexar County. The city of Hondo is the county seat. With FIPS code of 325, Medina County has a population of 51,981 and area of 1,328 square miles (3,440 km²).
List of all cities in Medina County, TX alphabetically
City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
Castroville, TX | 78009 | 830 |
78056 | 830 | |
D Hanis, TX | 78850 | 830 |
Devine, TX | 78016 | 830 |
Dunlay, TX | 78861 | 830 |
Hondo, TX | 78861 | 830 |
La Coste, TX | 78039 | 830 |
Mico, TX | 78056 | 830 |
Natalia, TX | 78059 | 830 |
Rio Medina, TX | 78066 | 830 |
Yancey, TX | 78886 | 830 |
Major Cities and Towns in Medina County, Texas
Medina County, located in South Central Texas, is home to several cities and towns that offer a mix of historical significance, natural beauty, and economic activity. The county is known for its agricultural roots, particularly in farming and ranching, as well as its proximity to San Antonio, which influences much of the region’s development. Below are the major cities and towns in Medina County.
Hondo
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 4.2 square miles
- Population: 9,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78861
- Latitude: 29.3551° N
- Longitude: 99.1394° W
City Location and History
Hondo is the county seat of Medina County, situated approximately 40 miles west of San Antonio. Founded in 1881, the town grew rapidly with the arrival of the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway, which helped connect Hondo to the larger markets in Texas. The town is named after the Hondo Creek, which runs through the area. “Hondo” is Spanish for “deep,” referencing the deep waters of the creek. During the early years of its establishment, Hondo was an important agricultural hub, with cotton, corn, and livestock farming serving as the foundation of its economy.
Hondo’s history is also intertwined with the military, as it was once a site for the construction of a U.S. Army fort during the Indian Wars in the late 1800s. In the 20th century, the town’s economy began to diversify, with the oil and gas industries making their presence known. Today, Hondo is a thriving small town that combines historical charm with modern amenities, making it a desirable place to live and visit.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hondo is served by the Hondo Independent School District (HISD), which includes Hondo High School, Hondo Middle School, and several elementary schools. HISD offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs, including athletics, fine arts, and career and technical education, serving students from Hondo and surrounding areas. The town is also home to a branch of the Southwest Texas Junior College, providing higher education opportunities for residents.
Among the city’s landmarks is the Medina County Courthouse, a historic building dating back to 1911 that remains the focal point of Hondo’s downtown. The Hondo City Park offers numerous recreational opportunities, including picnic areas, a swimming pool, and walking trails. The Hondo Museum, located in the heart of the town, showcases the area’s history and culture, with exhibits on the town’s founding, agriculture, and military history. Hondo is also known for its proximity to the Medina Lake, which provides a range of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and camping.
Devine
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: 4,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78016
- Latitude: 29.1334° N
- Longitude: 98.9052° W
City Location and History
Devine, located just 30 miles south of San Antonio, is one of Medina County’s most well-known towns. The city was founded in the late 1800s and named after the prominent local figure, Thomas Devine, a businessman who played a key role in the development of the town. Initially, Devine grew as a railroad stop and agricultural center, with cotton, grains, and livestock being key to its early economy. The arrival of the Southern Pacific Railroad in the late 1800s significantly contributed to the town’s growth, bringing new settlers and expanding the trade of local goods.
The early 20th century saw further development in the town with the introduction of the oil and gas industry, which boosted its economy. Devine’s small-town charm and proximity to San Antonio have made it an appealing place for families and commuters. Today, Devine retains its agricultural roots, with farming and ranching continuing to be major economic drivers, though the town has also diversified its economy with businesses, healthcare, and education.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Devine is served by the Devine Independent School District (DISD), which includes Devine High School, Devine Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs, including a variety of extracurricular opportunities in sports, arts, and vocational studies. Devine also offers specialized education in agriculture through the high school’s Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter, reflecting the area’s agricultural heritage.
Major landmarks in Devine include the historic Devine Depot, a train station built in the early 1900s that now serves as a museum dedicated to the town’s railroad history. The Medina County Fairgrounds hosts the annual Medina County Fair, a highlight of the community’s cultural calendar. For outdoor recreation, the nearby Medina Lake provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking, making it a popular destination for residents and visitors alike. Devine’s proximity to San Antonio also allows for easy access to big-city amenities while maintaining a quieter, small-town atmosphere.
Castroville
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.3 square miles
- Population: 3,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78009
- Latitude: 29.3583° N
- Longitude: 98.8833° W
City Location and History
Castroville, located 20 miles west of San Antonio, is often referred to as the “Little Alsace” due to its French heritage. The town was founded in 1844 by Henri Castro, a French empresario who brought settlers to the region from Alsace, France. Castroville was originally a part of the land granted to French settlers under the provisions of the Texas Republic, and it quickly grew into a farming and ranching community. The town’s French roots are evident in its architecture, cultural festivals, and even its local cuisine.
The town’s history is marked by its early role in the Texas Revolution, where the community supported the independence movement. Over the years, Castroville has maintained its small-town character, with agriculture, particularly the farming of crops like vegetables and grains, remaining an economic cornerstone. The town is also known for its role in the development of the railroad system in Medina County, which helped expand trade and commerce.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Castroville is part of the Medina Valley Independent School District, which includes Medina Valley High School, Castroville Elementary School, and other schools within the district. The district offers a variety of academic and extracurricular programs, including advanced placement courses, athletics, and fine arts. The school system is central to the community, with many students involved in local events and traditions.
Landmarks in Castroville include the historic Castroville Town Square, which features several 19th-century buildings, including the historic Alsatian Steeplechase Church and the home of Henri Castro. The town is also known for its charming “Old Town” area, where visitors can explore boutiques, cafes, and art galleries that showcase the town’s French heritage. The Castroville Regional Park is a popular location for outdoor activities, including picnicking, fishing, and hiking. Additionally, the town hosts several cultural events, including the Alsatian Festival, which celebrates its French roots with traditional music, food, and dances.
LaCoste
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 0.9 square miles
- Population: 1,500 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 78039
- Latitude: 29.3570° N
- Longitude: 98.8133° W
City Location and History
LaCoste is a small town located just southeast of Castroville, in the northern part of Medina County. Originally settled in the 1850s, the town was named after local landowner and businessman, Joseph LaCoste, who helped develop the area. In its early years, LaCoste was a hub for agriculture and served as a key stop for the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway. The town thrived on the cultivation of cotton, corn, and livestock, but like many rural towns in Texas, its growth slowed during the early 20th century.
Today, LaCoste remains a quiet, small town with a population that is primarily involved in agriculture, particularly the farming of crops and the raising of livestock. The town’s rural setting, combined with its proximity to San Antonio, makes it an appealing place for families seeking a slower pace of life while still being close to larger city amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
LaCoste is served by the Medina Valley Independent School District. Students in LaCoste attend schools in the district, including Medina Valley High School and the local elementary schools. The school system offers a variety of academic programs as well as extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and agriculture education.
Notable landmarks in LaCoste include the LaCoste City Park, which features a playground, picnic area, and sports facilities, making it a popular spot for local families. The town is also home to several historic buildings, including old ranching structures that reflect its agricultural history. Although LaCoste is small, it has a tight-knit community with events like the annual Medina County Fair, where local residents gather to celebrate the area’s agricultural traditions.