Cities and Towns in Runnels County, Texas

Founded in 1858, Runnels County is one of 254 counties in the state of Texas. Historically, Runnels County was formed from Bexar County and Travis County. The city of Ballinger is the county seat. With FIPS code of 399, Runnels County has a population of 9,943 and area of 1,054 square miles (2,730 km²).

List of all cities in Runnels County, TX alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Ballinger, TX	76821	325
Bethel, TX	76821	325
Blanton, TX	76821	325
Bradshaw, TX	79567	325
Crews, TX	79567	325
Drasco, TX	79567	325
Happy Valley, TX	79566	325
Hatchel, TX	79567	325
Miles, TX	76861	325
Norton, TX	76865	325
Pony, TX	76821	325
Pumphrey, TX	79567	325
Rowena, TX	76875	325
Shep, TX	79566	325
Wilmeth, TX	79567	325
Wingate, TX	79566	325
Winters, TX	79567	325

Major Cities and Towns in Runnels County, Texas

Ballinger

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 2.0 square miles
• Population: 4,100 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 76821
• Latitude: 31.7400° N
• Longitude: 99.9760° W

Location and History

Ballinger, the largest city and county seat of Runnels County, is located in central Texas, approximately 25 miles southeast of San Angelo. The town was founded in the late 19th century and was named after George W. Ballinger, a prominent land developer in the area. The arrival of the railroad in the 1880s was a pivotal moment in the town’s development, linking Ballinger to broader markets and contributing to its growth as a center for agriculture and trade. Initially, cotton, cattle, and crops such as wheat and corn were the backbone of the local economy. The early 20th century saw Ballinger continue to thrive, with several businesses and industries opening in the area. During the mid-1900s, the town saw a gradual shift away from agriculture toward a more diversified economy, but agriculture remains important to the area. Ballinger is known for its historic downtown area, with several preserved buildings reflecting its rich history. Over the years, the city has maintained a balance between modern development and small-town charm, providing a peaceful atmosphere for residents while still offering easy access to larger cities like San Angelo.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ballinger is served by the Ballinger Independent School District, which includes Ballinger High School, a key institution in the town offering a range of academic, athletic, and extracurricular opportunities. The city’s landmarks include the Runnels County Courthouse, a historic building that reflects the town’s role as the administrative center of the county. The courthouse, constructed in the early 20th century, serves as a central point for county government activities. Another significant landmark is the Ballinger Memorial Park, a large public space that offers residents and visitors a variety of recreational activities, including walking trails, sports fields, and picnic areas. The Ballinger City Pool is another popular destination during the summer months. Additionally, the historic downtown district features several preserved buildings, many of which date back to the late 1800s and early 1900s, showcasing the town’s rich heritage. Ballinger’s location along the Concho River also offers opportunities for outdoor activities, such as fishing and boating. The town is known for hosting community events, including the annual Ballinger Rodeo and the Runnels County Fair, both of which celebrate the region’s agricultural roots and provide entertainment for residents and visitors alike.

Miles

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.9 square miles
• Population: 900 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 76861
• Latitude: 31.4378° N
• Longitude: 99.9534° W

Location and History

Miles is a small town located in the northern part of Runnels County, about 15 miles north of Ballinger and 30 miles southeast of San Angelo. The town was established in the late 19th century as a railroad stop along the Santa Fe Railway. Like many small towns in Texas, Miles grew up around the railroad, which provided a critical link for farmers and ranchers to ship their goods to larger markets. The town was originally named “Miles Station” in honor of J.P. Miles, a railroad official, and it became a central point for local agriculture, including cotton and cattle farming. Over the years, Miles remained a small community, with a population that fluctuated with the boom and bust cycles of the local economy. Despite its size, Miles has retained a strong sense of community and a rural lifestyle, with most of its economy still rooted in farming and ranching. The town’s close proximity to larger cities like San Angelo has also allowed residents to enjoy the benefits of suburban life while maintaining a quieter, more rural existence.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Miles is served by the Miles Independent School District, which includes Miles High School, where students are offered a range of academic and extracurricular opportunities. The school district is a vital part of the community, serving as both an educational center and a social hub for the town’s residents. One of the key landmarks in Miles is the Miles Community Center, which hosts various events, including local festivals, social gatherings, and community meetings. The town is also home to several parks and recreational areas, including the Miles City Park, which offers outdoor amenities such as sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. Miles is surrounded by open agricultural land, and many of its residents are involved in farming and ranching. The town has several historic buildings, including old homes and churches that reflect its long history. In addition, Miles’ location near the Concho River offers opportunities for outdoor recreation, including fishing and boating. The town hosts the annual Miles Rodeo, a key event that celebrates its agricultural and ranching heritage, drawing visitors from surrounding communities. Despite its small size, Miles has maintained a strong sense of pride and community spirit, making it a beloved place for those who call it home.

Winchell

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 1.1 square miles
• Population: 150 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 76892
• Latitude: 31.6111° N
• Longitude: 99.6969° W

Location and History

Winchell is a tiny, rural community located in the southwestern part of Runnels County, approximately 15 miles west of Ballinger. The town was established in the early 1900s and has remained small throughout its history, with a population that has never exceeded a few hundred residents. Winchell’s economy has traditionally been rooted in agriculture, with farming and ranching being the primary sources of income for local families. The town was named after W.A. Winchell, a local businessman who played an important role in the town’s early development. The arrival of the railroad in the early 20th century briefly boosted the town’s economy, but it has remained primarily a quiet, rural community. Today, Winchell is known for its peaceful, country living, offering residents a chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape, including the nearby Colorado River. Despite its small size, Winchell has maintained a sense of community and continues to serve as a close-knit rural hub for those who prefer the slower pace of life found in small Texas towns.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Winchell is served by the Runnels Independent School District, with students attending schools in the nearby communities of Ballinger or other surrounding towns. Due to the small population, the community does not have its own school facilities but is still a part of the larger educational district. One of the primary landmarks in Winchell is the historic Winchell Cemetery, which serves as a testament to the town’s long history, with many of the town’s early settlers buried there. The town also features the Winchell Community Center, which hosts local events and serves as a gathering place for social functions and town meetings. The surrounding area is primarily agricultural, and the town’s rural setting offers ample opportunities for outdoor activities, including hunting, fishing, and hiking in the nearby landscapes. Winchell is also located near the Colorado River, where residents and visitors can enjoy fishing and boating. Although the town itself is small, Winchell’s connection to the land and its quiet, country atmosphere make it a special part of Runnels County, cherished by those who call it home.