Cities and Towns in Polk County, Tennessee

Founded in 1839, Polk County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Polk County was formed from McMinn and Bradley counties. The city of Benton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 139, Polk County has a population of 17,776 and area of 435 square miles (1,127 km²).

List of all cities in Polk County, TN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Benton, TN	37307	423
Conasauga, TN	37316	423
Copperhill, TN	37317	423
Delano, TN	37325	423
Ducktown, TN	37326	423
Farner, TN	37333	423
Ocoee, TN	37361	423
Old Fort, TN	37362	423
Postelle, TN	37317	423
Reliance, TN	37369	423
Turtletown, TN	37391	423

Major Cities and Towns in Polk County, Tennessee

Benton, Tennessee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,700
• Zip Codes: 37307
• Latitude: 35.1692° N
• Longitude: 84.6025° W

Location and History

Benton is the county seat of Polk County and is located in the southeastern part of Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The town is approximately 15 miles northwest of the Georgia state line and about 40 miles north of Chattanooga. Benton was first settled in the early 19th century and was incorporated in 1838. The town’s early economy was based on agriculture, particularly corn, cotton, and tobacco. Its strategic location along the Hiwassee River facilitated transportation and trade, which contributed to its growth during the 19th century.

Benton’s history is also tied to its role in the Civil War, as the region saw various skirmishes and military activity due to its proximity to important transportation routes. The town grew in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with the construction of railroads and improvements in infrastructure. Today, Benton retains much of its small-town charm, with a downtown area that reflects its historic roots. The town serves as the administrative center for Polk County and is a hub for local government services.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Benton is served by the Polk County School District, with Polk County High School providing secondary education. The town also has Benton Elementary School, which serves younger students. One of the town’s landmarks is the historic Polk County Courthouse, which has stood as a symbol of Benton’s importance as the county seat for over a century. Additionally, the town features the Benton City Park, which offers picnic areas, sports fields, and walking trails for residents and visitors. The nearby Hiwassee River provides outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, kayaking, and wildlife watching. Benton is also near the Cherokee National Forest, which offers a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the Appalachian region. The town’s blend of natural beauty, history, and small-town charm makes it an attractive place for residents and tourists alike.

Copperhill, Tennessee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 400
• Zip Codes: 37317
• Latitude: 34.9897° N
• Longitude: 84.3701° W

Location and History

Copperhill is located in the far northeastern corner of Polk County, near the Georgia state line. The town sits along the Toccoa River, which marks the border between Tennessee and Georgia. Founded in the early 20th century, Copperhill was historically known for its copper mining industry, which gave the town its name. The area saw a boom in the late 1800s and early 1900s, as copper was mined extensively in the region, contributing to the economic growth of the town. The mining industry also attracted workers from around the country, transforming the small settlement into a thriving community.

By the mid-20th century, however, the copper industry declined, and Copperhill experienced economic downturns as mines were closed and the population began to decrease. Today, Copperhill is a quiet, rural community that serves as a gateway to the beautiful Toccoa River and surrounding mountainous terrain. Though small, Copperhill retains its historic identity as a former mining town and is now known for its natural beauty and proximity to outdoor recreation opportunities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Copperhill is served by the Polk County School District, with Copperhill Elementary School providing educational services for younger students. The town’s landmarks include the historic Copperhill Depot, which once served as a hub for the mining industry and has been preserved as a museum showcasing the town’s history. The Toccoa River, which runs through Copperhill, is a major attraction for visitors, offering fishing, boating, and scenic views. The town also sits near the Ocoee River, which is known for white-water rafting and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Copperhill is located near the Cherokee National Forest, which provides a wealth of opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife watching. The town’s blend of history, outdoor activities, and natural beauty makes it a unique destination for those looking to experience a quieter, more rural lifestyle.

Ocoee, Tennessee

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 3.0 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,500
• Zip Codes: 37361
• Latitude: 35.0139° N
• Longitude: 84.7025° W

Location and History

Ocoee is a small town located in the southern part of Polk County, near the Ocoee River, which is famous for its white-water rapids. The town is about 20 miles northeast of Cleveland, Tennessee, and roughly 40 miles from Chattanooga. Ocoee was originally settled in the early 19th century, with its economy rooted in agriculture, particularly farming and timber. The town played a significant role in the Civil War, as it was a location for skirmishes and military movements due to its proximity to transportation routes.

The 20th century saw the town shift toward a more industrial focus, particularly with the development of hydroelectric power, thanks to the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA). The construction of the Ocoee River dams in the mid-1900s altered the region’s landscape and economy, and the town’s focus shifted toward tourism and outdoor recreation. Today, Ocoee is known for its scenic beauty, its role in white-water rafting, and its proximity to the Cherokee National Forest, drawing tourists seeking adventure and relaxation in the Appalachian foothills.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ocoee is served by the Polk County School District, with Ocoee Elementary School and Polk County Middle School providing educational services. Older students attend Polk County High School in Benton. The town is known for its proximity to the Ocoee River, which attracts many visitors for white-water rafting, kayaking, and tubing. The Ocoee River played a major role in the 1996 Summer Olympics, when it hosted the white-water slalom events. The town is also near the Cherokee National Forest, offering visitors access to miles of hiking trails, fishing spots, and camping grounds. The nearby Ocoee River Gorge, with its dramatic cliffs and vibrant fall foliage, is a scenic landmark. The Ocoee Scenic Byway, which runs along the river, offers breathtaking views and attracts tourists year-round. Ocoee’s small-town charm, combined with its natural beauty and outdoor activities, makes it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.