Cities and Towns in Moniteau County, Missouri

Founded in 1845, Moniteau County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Moniteau County was formed from Cole and Morgan counties. The city of California is the county seat. With FIPS code of 135, Moniteau County has a population of 15,484 and area of 417 square miles (1,080 km²).

List of all cities in Moniteau County, MO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
California, MO	65018	573
	65042	660
Cedron, MO	65046	660
Clarksburg, MO	65025	573
Fortuna, MO	65034	660
High Point, MO	65042	660
Jamestown, MO	65046	660
Kliever, MO	65018	573
Latham, MO	65050	660
Lupus, MO	65046	660
Mc Girk, MO	65055	573
Sandy Hook, MO	65046	660
Tipton, MO	65081	660

Major Cities and Towns in Moniteau County, Missouri

California

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 4.11 sq mi
• Population: 4,340 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 65018
• Latitude: 38.6025° N
• Longitude: 92.4607° W

Location and History

California, located in the heart of Moniteau County, Missouri, was founded in 1836 and named after California, the U.S. state that was in the midst of the Gold Rush at the time. It serves as the county seat, making it the central hub for government and commerce in the region. The town developed rapidly in the 19th century due to its strategic location along the Missouri River, which facilitated transportation and trade. In the early years, California’s economy was driven by agriculture and river trade. As the railroad expanded into the area in the late 1800s, California continued to grow as a trade and shipping center for agricultural products. Over the years, the town has become a key center for the surrounding rural communities, offering both agricultural and retail opportunities. Today, California maintains its rural charm with a strong focus on community and family, along with some local industries, such as manufacturing and agriculture.

Major Schools and Landmarks

California is served by the California R-I School District, which includes California High School and California Middle School. The district is known for its academic programs and extracurricular activities. The city is home to several historical landmarks, including the Moniteau County Courthouse, a beautiful brick building that serves as the center of the county’s judicial system. Nearby, the California City Park offers residents and visitors a space for outdoor recreation, including playgrounds, sports fields, and walking trails. The city also hosts annual events, such as the California Autumn Festival, which showcases local arts, crafts, and food. Agriculture continues to be an important part of the area, with the surrounding farmland playing a key role in the local economy. The local historical society also maintains several exhibits that highlight the area’s past, including its early settler history and Civil War-era stories.

Tipton

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.52 sq mi
• Population: 3,358 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 65081
• Latitude: 38.6045° N
• Longitude: 92.7649° W

Location and History

Tipton, Missouri, located in the southeastern part of Moniteau County, was founded in 1856 and was named after the local Tipton family. The town developed rapidly during the 19th century, particularly after the arrival of the railroad, which connected it to larger cities like Jefferson City and St. Louis. The railroad played a crucial role in the town’s economy, boosting its agricultural trade and establishing Tipton as a shipping point for livestock, grain, and other goods. During the Civil War, the town was a key location for local Confederate sympathizers, and the area saw some skirmishes between Union and Confederate forces. After the war, Tipton’s growth continued with the establishment of various businesses, including agricultural industries, banks, and retail outlets. Today, Tipton remains a small, close-knit community with strong agricultural ties and a rural, family-friendly environment. Its central location within Moniteau County makes it a key center for the county’s commerce and services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tipton is served by the Tipton R-VI School District, which includes Tipton High School and Tipton Middle School. The district is known for its strong academics and its focus on sports and extracurricular activities, with Tipton High being a major center for both. The town also boasts a number of historical landmarks, such as the Tipton Depot, which is a preserved train station from the railroad era. The Tipton City Park offers recreational facilities, including picnic areas, walking trails, and sports fields, making it a popular gathering spot for local families. Additionally, the town celebrates its agricultural heritage through various community events like the Tipton Rodeo, which highlights the area’s farming and ranching traditions. The town also has a local museum that showcases the history of Tipton and the surrounding area, with exhibits that feature the town’s development from the mid-1800s to the present day. Tipton’s welcoming, small-town atmosphere and its rural charm make it a quiet, yet active, part of Moniteau County.

Jamestown

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.42 sq mi
• Population: 200 (2020 Census)
• Zip Code: 65046
• Latitude: 38.7854° N
• Longitude: 92.7952° W

Location and History

Jamestown, located in the northeastern part of Moniteau County, is one of the smallest towns in the area, with a population that hovers around 200 residents. The town was founded in the mid-1800s and was originally a stopover for travelers moving through the region. Over time, it became a center for local agriculture, particularly corn and tobacco farming, as well as a small trading hub for the surrounding rural areas. The town’s location, situated along a network of county roads, made it a key point for those traveling through the county. Jamestown has always remained a rural, tight-knit community, with agriculture remaining its primary economic focus. Like many small towns, its population has remained relatively stable over the years, and its small size has fostered a deep sense of community among residents. Despite its size, Jamestown has preserved much of its historic charm, including several old homes and buildings that date back to the late 1800s.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Jamestown is part of the Jamestown R-I School District, which provides elementary and high school education to the children in this rural area. While the town itself is quite small, Jamestown’s proximity to larger communities like California and Tipton allows students to access more educational resources and activities. The town itself does not have many major landmarks but is known for its scenic rural surroundings and quiet atmosphere. The Salt Creek, which runs near Jamestown, is a popular spot for fishing and wildlife watching. The town is also close to the Moniteau County Fairgrounds in California, where residents can enjoy county fairs and agricultural exhibitions. Many of the town’s older homes and historical structures are still standing, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. Jamestown’s close-knit community is celebrated through local events, potlucks, and the strong ties between its families, which have made this rural town a beloved place to live.