Cities and Towns in Polk County, Missouri

Founded in 1835, Polk County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Polk County was formed from Greene County. The city of Bolivar is the county seat. With FIPS code of 167, Polk County has a population of 32,043 and area of 637 square miles (1,650 km²).

List of all cities in Polk County, MO alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Aldrich, MO 65601 417
Bolivar, MO 65613 417
65727 417
Brighton, MO 65617 417
Cherokee Homestead Village, MO 65613 417
Dunnegan, MO 65640 417
Eudora, MO 65645 417
Fair Play, MO 65649 417
Flemington, MO 65650 417
Goodson, MO 65663 417
Half Way, MO 65663 417
Humansville, MO 65674 417
Morrisville, MO 65645 417
65710 417
Polk, MO 65727 417
Slagle, MO 65613 417

Major Cities and Towns in Polk County, Missouri

Bolivar

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 8.27 sq mi
  • Population: 10,400 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 65613
  • Latitude: 37.6187° N
  • Longitude: 93.4347° W

Location and History

Bolivar, the county seat of Polk County, is located in southwestern Missouri, about 35 miles north of Springfield. The town was founded in 1835 and named after the South American revolutionary leader, Simón Bolívar, who fought for independence from Spain. Bolivar’s early development was largely driven by its location along the Butterfield Overland Mail Route, which made it an important stop for mail and stagecoach traffic in the mid-19th century. During the Civil War, the town was strategically located and became a focal point for several skirmishes and troop movements. After the war, Bolivar experienced significant growth, fueled by the expansion of the railroad and the arrival of settlers drawn to the area’s fertile land for farming. As the population grew, so did the town’s infrastructure, and Bolivar became a key commercial center for the surrounding region. Today, Bolivar continues to thrive as a regional hub for commerce, education, and culture in Polk County. It remains an important agricultural center and also benefits from its proximity to Springfield and the Ozarks.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bolivar is served by the Bolivar R-I School District, which includes Bolivar High School, Bolivar Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs and a variety of extracurricular opportunities in sports, arts, and clubs. One of the town’s prominent landmarks is the Polk County Courthouse, a historic building that serves as a symbol of the town’s rich heritage. The courthouse is located in the center of the historic district and offers a glimpse into the area’s past. Another important site is the Southwest Baptist University (SBU), a private Christian university located in Bolivar. SBU is a significant educational institution and an important part of the community. Bolivar also has several parks and recreational areas, including the Bolivar City Park, which offers amenities such as playgrounds, walking trails, and sports facilities. The city’s location in the Ozarks allows residents and visitors to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping, making Bolivar an attractive place for nature lovers.

Humansville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.67 sq mi
  • Population: 850 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 65674
  • Latitude: 37.5794° N
  • Longitude: 93.4733° W

Location and History

Humansville is located in the eastern part of Polk County, Missouri, and has a history that dates back to the early 19th century. The town was founded in 1836 and named after its first postmaster, Jonathan Human. Humansville’s location along the route of the Butterfield Overland Mail Route made it an important stagecoach stop and center of commerce for the surrounding area. In the late 1800s, Humansville’s economy was largely based on agriculture, particularly the production of grains and livestock. The town’s growth was steady, with the arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century bringing increased trade and opportunities for local businesses. However, with the decline of the railroad and the rise of motorized transportation in the 20th century, Humansville’s growth slowed. Today, the town maintains a quiet, rural character and serves as a small, but important, community in Polk County. Agriculture continues to play a significant role in the local economy, and Humansville is known for its scenic beauty and rural charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Humansville is served by the Humansville R-IV School District, which includes Humansville High School, Humansville Middle School, and elementary schools. The district is known for its small, close-knit educational environment and offers a variety of sports and extracurricular activities. Despite its small size, the town has several important landmarks. The Humansville Courthouse, a historic building dating back to the 19th century, is an iconic symbol of the town’s heritage. The town also boasts the Humansville City Park, which provides outdoor recreational opportunities such as picnicking, walking, and sports activities. The surrounding countryside, with its rolling hills and farmland, is another natural landmark that draws visitors to the area. The town is known for its quiet, rural lifestyle and offers residents and visitors a chance to enjoy the beauty of Missouri’s Ozarks. The town also hosts various community events, such as the annual Humansville Rodeo, which celebrates the region’s agricultural heritage.

Fair Play

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.55 sq mi
  • Population: 470 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 65649
  • Latitude: 37.4844° N
  • Longitude: 93.4717° W

Location and History

Fair Play is a small town located in the southwestern part of Polk County, Missouri, approximately 15 miles south of Bolivar. It was established in the mid-19th century, with its name reflecting its origins as a fair and just community where settlers and tradespeople gathered. Fair Play grew slowly during its early years, primarily serving as an agricultural hub for the surrounding farms. The town’s economy has historically been based on farming, with local residents growing crops such as corn, soybeans, and wheat, and raising livestock. Over the years, Fair Play has remained a quiet rural community with a strong agricultural presence. The town was formally incorporated in 1870, and its population remained relatively small throughout the 20th century. Today, Fair Play is a peaceful, close-knit community that offers a quiet alternative to larger, more urbanized areas. The town retains much of its 19th-century charm, with historic homes and structures dotting the landscape.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Fair Play is served by the Fair Play R-II School District, which includes Fair Play High School and Fair Play Elementary School. The school district is known for its strong focus on education, providing students with opportunities to engage in extracurricular activities such as sports, music, and clubs. While Fair Play does not have many major commercial landmarks, the town’s location in the beautiful Ozarks makes it a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts. Nearby parks and natural areas offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping. Fair Play is also home to the Fair Play Community Center, which hosts local events and functions. The town’s agricultural heritage is reflected in local businesses and farms that produce crops and livestock for trade. The peaceful, rural atmosphere is a defining characteristic of Fair Play, and it remains an important part of Polk County’s agricultural landscape. The town’s strong sense of community and focus on rural life makes it an attractive place for those seeking a quieter way of life in Missouri’s Ozark region.

Morrisville

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

  • Area: 0.45 sq mi
  • Population: 250 (2020 Census)
  • Zip Code: 65710
  • Latitude: 37.2687° N
  • Longitude: 93.4082° W

Location and History

Morrisville is a small, rural community located in the eastern part of Polk County. The town was founded in the late 19th century and named after Morrisville, New York, the hometown of one of the town’s early settlers. Morrisville’s history has been shaped by its agricultural surroundings, and farming remains an integral part of the town’s economy. The town grew slowly during its early years, primarily serving as a gathering place for local farmers and tradespeople. While Morrisville experienced some growth in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, its small size and rural location have kept it from becoming a major commercial center. Today, Morrisville is a quiet town that retains much of its rural charm. The town’s economy continues to be based largely on agriculture, with many residents working in farming or related industries. It is a peaceful place for people looking for a slower pace of life in the Missouri Ozarks.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Morrisville is served by the Pleasant Hope R-VI School District, located in the nearby town of Pleasant Hope. Students from Morrisville attend schools in the district, including Pleasant Hope High School and Pleasant Hope Elementary School. The schools in the district are known for their academic programs and extracurricular activities. While Morrisville itself does not have major landmarks, its proximity to the Ozarks provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation. The town is located near several parks and natural areas that offer activities like hiking, fishing, and camping. Morrisville also boasts a number of historic buildings that reflect the town’s agricultural roots. The town’s rural location and its agricultural heritage are key aspects of Morrisville’s identity, making it an important part of Polk County’s countryside. The community remains tight-knit, and residents continue to support local events and businesses.