Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Georgia

Founded in 1821, Monroe County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Monroe County was formed from Creek Cession of 1821. The city of Forsyth is the county seat. With FIPS code of 207, Monroe County has a population of 28,712 and area of 396 square miles (1,026 km²).

List of all cities in Monroe County, GA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Bolingbroke, GA 31004 478
Culloden, GA 31016 478
Forsyth, GA 31029 478
Juliette, GA 31046 478
Smarr, GA 31086 478

Major Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Georgia

Forsyth

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 5.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,530 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 31029
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.0376° N, 83.9385° W

Location and History

Forsyth is the county seat of Monroe County, located in central Georgia. The city was founded in 1823 and named after John Forsyth, a former governor of Georgia and U.S. Secretary of State. Forsyth developed as a key trading center due to its strategic location along major transportation routes, including the Old Federal Road and later the railroad. The city’s growth was further boosted by its position as a center for cotton trade in the 19th century. Forsyth has retained much of its historic charm, with a well-preserved downtown area featuring antebellum homes, historic churches, and the Monroe County Courthouse. The city is known for its strong sense of community and its commitment to preserving its rich history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Forsyth is served by the Monroe County School District, with Mary Persons High School being the primary educational institution. The school offers a range of academic programs and extracurricular activities, including strong athletics and arts programs. Major landmarks in Forsyth include the historic Monroe County Courthouse, built in 1896 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The courthouse is a focal point of the city and a symbol of its long history as the county seat. The Forsyth Commercial Historic District features a variety of shops, restaurants, and historic buildings, creating a vibrant downtown atmosphere. The city is also home to the Tift College campus, now part of Mercer University, which adds to the city’s educational and cultural offerings. Forsyth’s annual Forsythia Festival celebrates the community’s spirit with parades, arts and crafts, and entertainment.

Culloden

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: 0.8 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 175 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Codes: 31016
  • Latitude and Longitude: 32.8665° N, 84.0969° W

Location and History

Culloden is a small town in Monroe County, located in the southern part of the county. The town was incorporated in 1887 and was named after the Battle of Culloden, reflecting the Scottish heritage of its early settlers. Culloden developed as an agricultural community, with cotton being the primary crop during its early years. The town’s location on the stagecoach route between Macon and Columbus made it a key stop for travelers and contributed to its growth in the 19th century. Culloden has maintained its small-town charm, with a focus on preserving its historic buildings and rural character. The town’s history is reflected in its quiet streets and well-preserved homes, many of which date back to the 19th century.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Culloden is part of the Monroe County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Forsyth, including Mary Persons High School. The town does not have its own high school but is served by the district’s schools. Major landmarks in Culloden include the Culloden City Hall, housed in a historic building that has served as the center of local government for over a century. The town is also home to several historic churches, including the Culloden Primitive Baptist Church, which has been a central part of the community since the 19th century. The surrounding rural landscape offers opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Culloden’s annual May Day Festival celebrates the town’s history and community spirit with food, music, and family-friendly activities.

Juliette

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: Not officially defined as a separate area
  • Population: Part of the unincorporated population of Monroe County
  • Zip Codes: 31046
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.1118° N, 83.8049° W

Location and History

Juliette is an unincorporated community in Monroe County, known for its historic charm and its connection to the 1991 film Fried Green Tomatoes. The town was originally established as a mill town in the 19th century, with the Juliette Milling Company being a major employer. Juliette’s location along the Ocmulgee River provided the necessary water power for the mill, contributing to the town’s growth. In the early 20th century, the town experienced a decline as the mill closed and residents moved away. However, Juliette was revitalized in the 1990s after being used as the filming location for Fried Green Tomatoes, which brought new attention and visitors to the area. Today, Juliette is known for its historic buildings, scenic beauty, and Southern hospitality.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Juliette is part of the Monroe County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Forsyth, including Mary Persons High School. The community does not have its own high school but is served by the district’s schools. Major landmarks in Juliette include the Whistle Stop Cafe, the iconic restaurant featured in Fried Green Tomatoes, which continues to serve visitors and locals alike. The Juliette Historic District features several well-preserved buildings from the 19th and early 20th centuries, including the old mill and various shops and homes. The nearby Lake Juliette, created by the construction of the Juliette Dam, offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and picnicking, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The town’s annual Fried Green Tomatoes Festival celebrates Juliette’s unique history and draws visitors from across the region.

Smarr

Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates

  • Area: Not officially defined as a separate area
  • Population: Part of the unincorporated population of Monroe County
  • Zip Codes: 31029
  • Latitude and Longitude: 33.0890° N, 83.9363° W

Location and History

Smarr is a small, unincorporated community in Monroe County, located just north of Forsyth. The community was named after the Smarr family, who were early settlers in the area. Smarr developed as a rural farming community, with its economy historically centered on agriculture, particularly cotton and livestock. The town’s proximity to Forsyth and the railroad made it an important local center for trade and transportation in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Although Smarr has remained small, it has maintained a strong sense of community and connection to its agricultural roots. The community is known for its peaceful, rural atmosphere and its close-knit residents.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Smarr is part of the Monroe County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Forsyth, including Mary Persons High School. The community itself does not have major educational institutions but is within easy reach of the county’s schools. Major landmarks in Smarr include several historic homes and churches that reflect the community’s rural heritage. The surrounding countryside offers scenic views of farmland, forests, and rolling hills, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and horseback riding. The community’s history is celebrated through local events and gatherings, often centered around the agricultural calendar and the seasons. Smarr’s quiet charm and proximity to Forsyth make it an attractive place for those seeking a rural lifestyle with access to modern amenities.

Map of Cities in Monroe County, GA

Map of Cities in Monroe County, GA