Cities and Towns in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky

Founded in 1798, Muhlenberg County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Muhlenberg County was formed from Christian County and Logan County. The city of Greenville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 177, Muhlenberg County has a population of 30,694 and area of 475 square miles (1,230 km²).

List of all cities in Muhlenberg County, KY alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Beech Creek, KY	42321	270
Beechmont, KY	42323	270
Belton, KY	42324	270
Bremen, KY	42325	270
Browder, KY	42326	270
Central City, KY	42330	270
Cleaton, KY	42332	270
Drakesboro, KY	42326	270
	42337	270
Dunmor, KY	42339	270
Graham, KY	42344	270
Greenville, KY	42345	270
Penrod, KY	42339	270
Powderly, KY	42367	270
South Carrollton, KY	42374	270

Major Cities and Towns in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky

Greenville

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 4.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,400 residents
• Zip Code: 42345
• Latitude: 37.2012° N
• Longitude: 87.1789° W

City Location and History:

Greenville, the county seat of Muhlenberg County, is located in the western part of Kentucky, about 90 miles southwest of Louisville. Established in 1799, Greenville was named after Revolutionary War hero General Nathanael Greene. The city became a vital center for commerce in the region, particularly due to its proximity to the Green River, which allowed for the transportation of goods. In the 19th century, coal mining became the backbone of the local economy, and Greenville thrived as a coal town. The railroad’s arrival further bolstered its importance, making it a hub for trade and industry. Today, Greenville is known for its picturesque downtown, featuring historical architecture and a rich heritage that reflects its role in Kentucky’s industrial history.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Greenville is served by Muhlenberg County High School, along with elementary and middle schools that provide education for the region. One of the city’s most prominent landmarks is the Muhlenberg County Courthouse, a historic structure that dominates the downtown square. The Veterans Plaza and the adjacent Everly Brothers Monument honor the city’s local heroes and its musical heritage, as the famous Everly Brothers were born in Muhlenberg County. The city also offers outdoor activities at Brizendine Brothers Nature Park and is home to Thistle Cottage, a historic house museum that showcases local history.

Central City

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 5.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,000 residents
• Zip Code: 42330
• Latitude: 37.2934° N
• Longitude: 87.1239° W

City Location and History:

Central City is located in the northern part of Muhlenberg County, near the Green River. The town was incorporated in 1873, originally named Morehead’s Horse Mill after its founder. It was renamed Central City to reflect its position as a central location along the Elizabethtown and Paducah Railroad. The city flourished as a coal-mining center, attracting workers and businesses throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries. As the coal industry grew, so did Central City, becoming one of the most populous areas in the county. While the decline of coal mining has slowed growth, Central City has maintained its relevance through efforts to diversify its economy, including tourism and local manufacturing.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Central City is home to Muhlenberg County West Campus, one of the main high schools in the county. The city is known for the Central City Convention Center, which hosts various events and serves as a recreational facility for the community. A major landmark is the Everly Brothers Monument, paying tribute to the town’s connection to Don and Phil Everly, pioneers of rock and roll music. Other points of interest include the nearby Green River Lake and Lu-Ray Park, where residents enjoy outdoor activities. Central City also hosts the annual Everly Brothers Homecoming Festival, which attracts fans of the musical duo from around the country.

Powderly

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 2.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 750 residents
• Zip Code: 42367
• Latitude: 37.2418° N
• Longitude: 87.1553° W

City Location and History:

Powderly is a small city located just south of Central City, named after labor leader Terence V. Powderly, who was a key figure in the Knights of Labor during the late 19th century. The city was established in the early 1900s, primarily as a coal mining town, much like many other communities in Muhlenberg County. Powderly’s economy was heavily reliant on the nearby mines, and it experienced rapid growth during the coal boom. However, the city’s population declined with the reduction in coal mining activity in the late 20th century. Despite this, Powderly has maintained its small-town charm and continues to serve as a quiet residential community within the county.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Powderly is served by schools in neighboring Central City and Greenville, including Muhlenberg County High School. The town is known for the Muhlenberg County Rail Trail, a scenic walking and biking path that follows the old railway line through the city and beyond. Powderly is also home to the Duncan Cultural Center Museum and Art Gallery, which provides insight into the local history and promotes the arts within the community. Additionally, nearby Lake Malone State Park offers residents and visitors recreational opportunities, including fishing, boating, and camping.

Drakesboro

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: 0.8 square miles
• Population: Approximately 500 residents
• Zip Code: 42337
• Latitude: 37.2208° N
• Longitude: 87.0489° W

City Location and History:

Drakesboro is a small city located in the eastern part of Muhlenberg County, known for its rich coal mining heritage. The town was incorporated in 1888 and named after early settler William Drake. Like many towns in the county, Drakesboro thrived during the peak of coal mining in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with numerous mines operating in and around the area. The Elizabethtown and Paducah Railroad played a crucial role in its development, allowing for the efficient transportation of coal. While the town’s population has decreased since the decline of coal mining, Drakesboro remains a close-knit community with deep historical roots.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Drakesboro’s educational needs are served by Muhlenberg County schools in nearby towns. The town is particularly proud of its musical heritage as the birthplace of the influential country and rockabilly singer Merle Travis. A monument dedicated to Travis stands in the town, and Drakesboro annually celebrates its connection to music with local events. Another key landmark is the Drakesboro Museum, which highlights the town’s coal mining history and local culture. The nearby Paradise Park offers a glimpse into the region’s natural beauty and is a popular spot for outdoor activities such as picnicking and hiking.

Beechmont

Area, Population, and Zip Codes:

• Area: Unincorporated community
• Population: Approximately 800 residents
• Zip Code: 42323
• Latitude: 37.2194° N
• Longitude: 87.0256° W

City Location and History:

Beechmont is an unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Muhlenberg County. The town was established in the late 19th century and grew alongside the coal mining industry, which dominated the local economy. Beechmont served as a residential area for miners working in nearby mines and quickly developed a reputation as a hard-working community. While coal mining is no longer the economic powerhouse it once was, Beechmont remains a quiet, rural area with a strong sense of history and community. Its location near the Green River and dense forests offers natural beauty and opportunities for outdoor recreation.

Major Schools and Landmarks:

Beechmont is served by schools in the broader Muhlenberg County School District, with nearby schools such as Muhlenberg South Elementary and Muhlenberg County High School. The community is known for its connection to the Green River, a historically significant waterway for commerce and transportation. Landmarks in Beechmont include several old coal mining sites and the Beechmont Community Center, which hosts events and activities for residents. The area’s rural setting also provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and enjoying nature, particularly along the banks of the Green River.