Cities and Towns in Sharp County, Arkansas
Founded on July 18, 1868, Sharp County is one of 75 counties in the state of Arkansas. Historically, Sharp County was formed from Lawrence County. The city of Ash Flat is the county seat. With FIPS code of 135, Sharp County has a population of 17,622 and area of 606.35 square miles (1,570 km²).
List of all cities in Sharp County, AR alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Ash Flat, AR | 72513 | 870 |
| Cave City, AR | 72521 | 870 |
| Cherokee Village, AR | 72525 | 870 |
| 72529 | 870 | |
| Evening Shade, AR | 72532 | 870 |
| Hardy, AR | 72525 | 870 |
| 72529 | 870 | |
| 72542 | 870 | |
| Highland, AR | 72542 | 870 |
| Poughkeepsie, AR | 72569 | 870 |
| Sidney, AR | 72577 | 870 |
| Williford, AR | 72482 | 870 |
Major Cities and Towns in Sharp County, Arkansas
Cherokee Village
- Area: 20.8 square miles
- Population: 4,671 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 72529
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.2923° N, 91.5482° W
Location and History
Cherokee Village is a planned community located in the rolling hills of Sharp County, Arkansas. Established in 1954 by developer John A. Cooper, Cherokee Village was one of the first planned retirement communities in the United States. Originally designed as a resort community, it quickly gained popularity for its natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and serene environment. Cherokee Village is nestled among the Ozarks, with access to seven lakes, two 18-hole golf courses, and numerous parks, making it a desirable destination for retirees and families alike. The community has grown significantly since its inception, transitioning from a seasonal retreat to a thriving, year-round residential area. The town’s history is closely tied to the development of the tourism and retirement industries in Arkansas, and it remains a key part of the region’s identity.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cherokee Village is served by the Highland School District, with Highland High School being the primary educational institution for local students. The town is known for its extensive recreational amenities, including the two golf courses, seven lakes, and numerous parks that offer a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. Significant landmarks include the Cherokee Village South Golf Course and Lake Thunderbird, the largest of the community’s lakes. The town also has a number of community centers and clubs, fostering a strong sense of community among residents.
Ash Flat
- Area: 5.1 square miles
- Population: 1,082 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 72513
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.2317° N, 91.6127° W
Location and History
Ash Flat, the county seat of Sharp County, is centrally located at the crossroads of U.S. Highway 62/412 and U.S. Highway 167. Established in the mid-19th century, Ash Flat grew as a key trading center for the surrounding rural areas. The town was officially incorporated in 1966, and its selection as the county seat in 1967 helped to spur further development. Historically, Ash Flat has served as a hub for agriculture, with local farms producing a variety of crops and livestock. Over time, the town has diversified its economy, with retail, healthcare, and education becoming increasingly important. Ash Flat is known for its small-town charm and strong community spirit, which is reflected in the various events and festivals held throughout the year.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Ash Flat is also part of the Highland School District, with Highland Middle School and Highland High School serving the local community. The town is home to Ozarka College’s Ash Flat campus, providing higher education opportunities to residents of Sharp County and the surrounding region. Key landmarks include the Sharp County Courthouse and the Ash Flat Library, both central to the community’s daily life. The town also features several parks and recreational areas, with the nearby Spring River offering opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor activities. Ash Flat’s central location makes it a convenient base for exploring the natural beauty and attractions of Sharp County.
Highland
- Area: 8.0 square miles
- Population: 1,045 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 72542
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.2528° N, 91.5179° W
Location and History
Highland, located just south of Cherokee Village, is a small city in Sharp County known for its residential character and proximity to various recreational facilities. The city was developed primarily as a residential area to support the growing population of Cherokee Village and other nearby communities. Incorporated in 1998, Highland has since grown into a small but vibrant city that serves as a bedroom community for the surrounding region. The city’s growth has been closely linked to the expansion of Cherokee Village and Ash Flat, with many residents commuting to these nearby areas for work and shopping. Highland’s location near the Spring River and various lakes has made it an attractive place to live for those who enjoy outdoor activities and a peaceful, small-town lifestyle.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Highland is served by the Highland School District, which operates the main educational facilities for the city, including Highland High School and Highland Middle School. The city is known for its quiet, suburban atmosphere and access to nearby recreational areas, including the lakes and parks of Cherokee Village and the Spring River, which is popular for fishing and canoeing. Although Highland is primarily residential, its proximity to the amenities and attractions of Cherokee Village and Ash Flat means that residents can easily access a wide range of services and activities. The city’s central location and strong community make it a desirable place to live within Sharp County.
Cave City
- Area: 2.9 square miles
- Population: 1,869 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 72521
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.9415° N, 91.5482° W
Location and History
Cave City, located in the southern part of Sharp County, is known as the “Home of the World’s Sweetest Watermelons,” a title that reflects its long-standing tradition of watermelon farming. The town was established in the late 19th century and grew rapidly as a center for agriculture, particularly known for its watermelon crops, which are celebrated annually during the Cave City Watermelon Festival. The town’s name comes from the nearby Cave Creek, which runs through a large cave that was historically used as a shelter by Native Americans and early settlers. Today, Cave City is a small but thriving community that has managed to preserve its agricultural roots while also embracing modern developments. The town is a gateway to the scenic beauty of the Ozarks and is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cave City is served by the Cave City School District, which includes Cave City High School and Cave City Middle School. The town’s most notable landmark is the large cave from which it derives its name, located just outside the city limits. The annual Cave City Watermelon Festival is a major event that draws visitors from across the region, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, music, and of course, plenty of watermelon. Other significant landmarks include the historic downtown area, which features several buildings dating back to the early 20th century, and the nearby Spring River, which offers opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and other outdoor activities.
Hardy
- Area: 5.8 square miles
- Population: 772 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 72542
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.3150° N, 91.4751° W
Location and History
Hardy, situated along the banks of the Spring River, is one of Sharp County’s most charming and historically significant towns. Founded in the late 19th century, Hardy quickly became a popular stop along the railroad, attracting visitors with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The town is named after James Hardy, a prominent local landowner who played a key role in its early development. Throughout the 20th century, Hardy became known as a popular tourist destination, particularly for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of the Ozarks and the recreational opportunities offered by the Spring River. The town has preserved much of its historic character, with many of its original buildings still standing and in use today, contributing to its reputation as a quaint and picturesque community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hardy is part of the Highland School District, with students attending schools in nearby Highland. The town is famous for its historic Main Street, which is lined with antique shops, art galleries, and restaurants, all housed in beautifully preserved buildings from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Spring River, which runs through Hardy, is a major draw for tourists and residents alike, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and tubing. The town also hosts several festivals throughout the year, including the Hardy Homesteaders Day, which celebrates the town’s heritage with demonstrations, crafts, and traditional music. Hardy’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes it a unique and beloved part of Sharp County.
Map of Cities in Sharp County, AR
