Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Kentucky

Founded in 1820, Monroe County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Monroe County was formed from Barren County and Cumberland County. The city of Tompkinsville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 171, Monroe County has a population of 11,233 and area of 331 square miles (857 km²).

List of all cities in Monroe County, KY alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Boles, KY	42167	270
Bugtussle, KY	42140	270
Fleet, KY	42140	270
Flippin, KY	42167	270
Forkton, KY	42167	270
Fountain Run, KY	42133	270
Freetown, KY	42140	270
Gamaliel, KY	42140	270
Gum Tree, KY	42167	270
Hestand, KY	42151	270
Mount Hermon, KY	42157	270
Mud Lick, KY	42167	270
T Ville, KY	42167	270
Tompkinsville, KY	42167	270

Major Cities and Towns in Monroe County, Kentucky

Tompkinsville

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 3.7 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,300 residents
• Zip Code: 42167
• Latitude: 36.7023° N
• Longitude: 85.6914° W

City Location and History:

Tompkinsville, the county seat of Monroe County, is located in southern Kentucky, near the Tennessee border. Established in 1809, the town was named after Governor Caleb Tompkins of New York, honoring his support for the War of 1812. Tompkinsville is historically significant as the site of the first Confederate victory of the Civil War during the Battle of Tompkinsville in 1862. The town has long been a center for agriculture, with tobacco, corn, and livestock playing key roles in its economy. In the 20th century, the construction of Dale Hollow Lake nearby contributed to the region’s growth, bringing tourism and outdoor recreational activities. Today, Tompkinsville continues to embrace its historical roots while serving as the commercial and governmental hub of Monroe County.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Tompkinsville is home to Monroe County High School and Monroe County Middle School, which serve the educational needs of the area. One of the town’s most significant landmarks is Old Mulkey Meetinghouse State Historic Site, an 1804 log church that played a role in Kentucky’s early frontier history and religious movements. The town also boasts the Monroe County Courthouse, a centerpiece of the downtown area. Visitors and residents can enjoy the scenic beauty of nearby Dale Hollow Lake, which offers boating, fishing, and camping. The annual Monroe County Watermelon Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage and brings the community together for festivities each summer.

Fountain Run

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 0.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 200 residents
• Zip Code: 42133
• Latitude: 36.7222° N
• Longitude: 85.9575° W

City Location and History:

Fountain Run is a small town located in the western part of Monroe County, near the Barren River Lake and the border with Allen County. The town was founded in the early 19th century and originally called “Jamestown” before being renamed to reflect the local natural springs, or fountains, that run through the area. Historically, Fountain Run served as a local trading post for farmers in the surrounding agricultural region. The town has retained much of its rural charm and remains a tight-knit community. Fountain Run is known for its peaceful atmosphere, picturesque farmland, and proximity to outdoor recreation at Barren River Lake, making it an appealing location for residents and visitors seeking a rural lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Fountain Run is served by Monroe County schools, with students attending Monroe County High School and Monroe County Middle School in nearby Tompkinsville. The town’s most notable landmark is the Fountain Run Cemetery, which dates back to the town’s founding and includes graves from early settlers. Fountain Run is also close to Barren River Lake, where residents and visitors enjoy boating, fishing, and camping. Additionally, the town’s historic downtown area features several old general stores and homes that provide a glimpse into Fountain Run’s early days as a farming and trading community. Each year, the Fountain Run BBQ Festival draws locals and tourists alike for a weekend of food, music, and community spirit.

Gamaliel

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 1.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 400 residents
• Zip Code: 42140
• Latitude: 36.6378° N
• Longitude: 85.7911° W

City Location and History:

Gamaliel is a small town located in the southeastern part of Monroe County, near the Tennessee state line. Established in 1836, the town was named after the biblical figure Gamaliel, reflecting the religious influence of the early settlers. Gamaliel’s history is rooted in agriculture, with the surrounding farmlands producing tobacco, corn, and other crops. The town became a local trading post and developed a strong community spirit that persists today. Over the years, Gamaliel has remained a small, close-knit town where farming continues to play an essential role in the economy. The quiet rural setting and friendly atmosphere make Gamaliel a charming place to live or visit.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Gamaliel is home to Gamaliel Elementary School, which serves the town’s young students, while older students attend Monroe County High School in Tompkinsville. One of the key landmarks in the town is the Gamaliel United Methodist Church, a historical church that has been a center of community life for generations. The town also features Gamaliel Cemetery, where many of the town’s early settlers are buried. The nearby Cumberland River and Dale Hollow Lake offer residents and visitors opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. Gamaliel’s annual Fall Festival is a popular local event, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage with food, crafts, and entertainment.

Flippin

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 100 residents
• Zip Code: 42133
• Latitude: 36.7787° N
• Longitude: 85.9381° W

City Location and History:

Flippin is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Monroe County, near the border with Barren County. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after an early settler, the Flippin family, who were instrumental in the development of the local area. Flippin has historically been an agricultural community, with farming being the primary source of livelihood for its residents. The town is situated near the Barren River, which provided early settlers with fertile land for crops and livestock. Over time, Flippin has remained a quiet, rural community with a strong agricultural identity and a slow-paced lifestyle.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Flippin is part of the Monroe County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Tompkinsville and Fountain Run. The community is known for its rural landscape, with several historic farmhouses and barns reflecting its agricultural roots. Flippin is close to Barren River Lake, offering residents and visitors opportunities for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. The town’s most significant landmarks include local churches that have been central to community life for decades. Although small, Flippin’s peaceful atmosphere and proximity to natural attractions make it a pleasant place for those seeking rural living.