Cities and Towns in Rankin County, Mississippi
Founded in 1828, Rankin County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Rankin County was formed from Hinds County. The city of Brandon is the county seat. With FIPS code of 121, Rankin County has a population of 158,096 and area of 775 square miles (2,007 km²).
List of all cities in Rankin County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Brandon, MS | 39042 | 601/769 |
| 39043 | 601/769 | |
| 39047 | 601/769 | |
| Florence, MS | 39073 | 601/769 |
| Flowood, MS | 39232 | 601/769 |
| Jackson, MS | 39208 | 601/769 |
| 39218 | 601/769 | |
| 39232 | 601/769 | |
| 39288 | 601/769 | |
| 39298 | 601/769 | |
| Pearl, MS | 39208 | 601/769 |
| Pearl, MS | 39288 | 601/769 |
| Pelahatchie, MS | 39145 | 601/769 |
| Piney Woods, MS | 39148 | 601/769 |
| Puckett, MS | 39151 | 601/769 |
| Reservoir, MS | 39042 | 601/769 |
| 39047 | 601/769 | |
| Richland, MS | 39218 | 601/769 |
| Sandhill, MS | 39161 | 601/769 |
| Star, MS | 39167 | 601/769 |
| Whitfield, MS | 39193 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Rankin County, Mississippi
Rankin County, located in central Mississippi, is part of the Jackson Metropolitan Statistical Area. Known for its rapid growth in the 21st century, Rankin County blends suburban developments with rural charm, offering a variety of amenities, historical landmarks, and a strong sense of community. Below are the major cities and towns in Rankin County, Mississippi, highlighting their geography, history, schools, and landmarks.
Brandon
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 19.8 square miles
- Population: 23,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39042
- Latitude: 32.2790° N
- Longitude: 90.0020° W
Location and History
Brandon is the largest city and the county seat of Rankin County, located just east of Jackson, the state capital. The city was incorporated in 1828 and was named after its first postmaster, William Brandon. Initially a small agricultural town, Brandon grew significantly in the 20th century due to its proximity to the capital city and the development of the railroad system. The establishment of U.S. Highway 80 and later Interstate 20 further spurred Brandon’s growth, making it an attractive location for families and businesses seeking a more suburban environment while still being close to Jackson. The city’s growth accelerated in the 1990s and 2000s, transforming it into a vibrant community with modern amenities and a thriving local economy. Despite this development, Brandon maintains its small-town charm, with historic buildings and a strong sense of community pride.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Brandon is served by the Rankin County School District, which includes Brandon High School, a prominent institution that offers a range of academic and extracurricular programs. Brandon Middle School and several elementary schools serve the area as well. Major landmarks in Brandon include the Brandon Amphitheater, an outdoor venue that hosts concerts and community events, and Brandon City Park, which offers picnic areas, sports fields, and walking trails. The Historic Brandon Depot is another key site, reflecting the city’s railroad heritage. The Brandon Library and nearby Ross Barnett Reservoir are popular attractions, with the reservoir offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor recreation. Brandon also hosts annual events like the Brandon Heritage Festival, celebrating the city’s rich history and sense of community.
Pearl
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 15.3 square miles
- Population: 26,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39208
- Latitude: 32.2845° N
- Longitude: 90.1508° W
Location and History
Pearl is a growing suburban city located just south of Jackson, along the Pearl River. Originally settled in the 19th century, the area was primarily rural and agricultural before the construction of the railroad in the early 20th century. The development of the area as a suburb of Jackson began in earnest after World War II, driven by its proximity to the state capital and the economic boom of the post-war era. In the 1980s, Pearl was officially incorporated as a city, and its growth exploded in the following decades as it became one of the fastest-growing communities in the Jackson metro area. Today, Pearl is known for its suburban charm, excellent schools, and being the location of several significant commercial developments, including shopping centers, dining establishments, and the Trustmark Park, home to the Mississippi Braves, a minor league baseball team.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Pearl is served by the Pearl Public School District, which includes Pearl High School, known for its strong academic and athletic programs. Pearl Junior High School and Pearl Lower Elementary are also key educational institutions in the city. Major landmarks in Pearl include Trustmark Park, which hosts the Mississippi Braves and is a popular venue for sports events and concerts. The Pearl River itself is a focal point for recreation, with opportunities for boating, fishing, and outdoor activities along its banks. The Pearl Community Center offers a variety of recreational programs and community events. The city also features the The Outlet Shops of Pearl, a major shopping center that attracts visitors from across the region. Pearl’s combination of suburban living, recreational facilities, and proximity to Jackson make it a desirable place to live and work.
Florence
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: 4,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39073
- Latitude: 32.2867° N
- Longitude: 90.2108° W
Location and History
Florence is a small town located in the southern part of Rankin County, approximately 10 miles southeast of Jackson. The town was established in the 19th century, with early settlers attracted by the area’s fertile land and proximity to the Pearl River. Incorporated in 1853, Florence remained a rural community for much of its history, with agriculture being the primary economic activity. The town’s proximity to Jackson allowed it to benefit from the metropolitan area’s growth, and Florence gradually transformed into a more suburban community. Today, Florence maintains its small-town character, with a focus on local businesses and family-oriented living, while also offering easy access to the larger city of Jackson.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Florence is served by the Rankin County School District, with Florence High School being the primary educational institution. The town has a number of elementary and middle schools that provide educational opportunities for local students. Florence is home to several local landmarks, including Florence City Park, which offers a walking track, playgrounds, and picnic areas for families to enjoy. The Florence Depot is a historical landmark, reflecting the town’s history as a stop along the railroad. Additionally, Lake Florence provides outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing and boating, making it a popular destination for residents. Florence is also known for its rural charm and tight-knit community, offering a slower pace of life compared to larger suburban areas.
Other Communities in Rankin County
Rankin County is also home to smaller towns and communities such as Pelahatchie, Sandhill, and Star, which offer rural living and are close to the metropolitan areas of Jackson and Flowood. Pelahatchie is known for its strong agricultural roots, while Sandhill and Star are more residential, with easy access to outdoor recreation and local parks.