Cities and Towns in Shelby County, Kentucky
Founded in 1792, Shelby County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Shelby County was formed from Jefferson County. The city of Shelbyville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 211, Shelby County has a population of 48,461 and area of 384 square miles (995 km²).
List of all cities in Shelby County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bagdad, KY | 40003 | 502 |
| Finchville, KY | 40022 | 502 |
| Shelbyville, KY | 40065 | 502 |
| 40066 | 502 | |
| Simpsonville, KY | 40067 | 502 |
| Waddy, KY | 40076 | 502 |
Major Cities and Towns in Shelby County, Kentucky
Shelbyville
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 8.7 square miles
- Population: Approximately 16,500 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40065
- Latitude: 38.2117° N
- Longitude: 85.2232° W
Location and History
Shelbyville, the county seat of Shelby County, is located in north-central Kentucky, about halfway between Louisville and Lexington. Established in 1792 and named after Kentucky’s first governor, Isaac Shelby, the town quickly became a regional hub for agriculture and trade, particularly focused on hemp, tobacco, and livestock. Shelbyville’s location along U.S. Route 60 contributed to its development as a key economic and transportation center in the 19th and 20th centuries. Over the years, the city has maintained its historic charm while growing into a vibrant community known for its scenic landscapes, horse farms, and small-town atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shelbyville is served by Shelby County Public Schools, including Shelby County High School and Martha Layne Collins High School. One of the city’s most prominent landmarks is the Shelby County Courthouse, a historic structure in the heart of downtown. The historic district also features well-preserved 19th-century architecture, with buildings such as the Wakefield-Scearce Galleries, which now serve as a fine art and antiques gallery. Shelbyville is renowned for its thoroughbred horse farms, with many visitors drawn to see the horses and the surrounding rural beauty. The city also hosts the Shelbyville Horse Show, one of the state’s premier equestrian events, celebrating Kentucky’s horse heritage.
Simpsonville
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 1.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 2,900 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 40067
- Latitude: 38.2223° N
- Longitude: 85.3524° W
Location and History
Simpsonville, located in western Shelby County, was founded in 1816 and named after early settler Moses Simpson. Known as the “American Saddlebred Horse Capital of the World,” the town has long been associated with horse breeding and agriculture. Throughout the 19th century, Simpsonville served as a vital stagecoach stop along the Louisville-Lexington Turnpike, contributing to its growth as a transportation and trade center. Simpsonville remained a small farming community for much of its history, but in recent years it has experienced growth due to its proximity to Louisville and the development of the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, a major retail destination.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Simpsonville is part of the Shelby County Public Schools system, with students attending nearby West Middle School and Collins High School. One of the town’s most iconic landmarks is the Simpsonville United Methodist Church, established in the early 1800s and still serving the community today. The town is also home to the Simpsonville Park and Recreation Complex, offering sports facilities and walking trails. The proximity to several horse farms reflects the community’s deep connection to the equine industry. Additionally, the Outlet Shoppes of the Bluegrass, located just outside the town, have become a major regional attraction, drawing visitors for shopping and dining.
Bagdad
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40003
- Latitude: 38.2609° N
- Longitude: 85.0407° W
Location and History
Bagdad is a small, unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Shelby County. The town was established in the early 1800s and is named after the famous city of Baghdad, though the reasons for this choice are not clear. Historically, Bagdad developed as a small agricultural community, with much of the surrounding land used for farming, especially tobacco and livestock. In the 20th century, Bagdad remained a tight-knit rural community, with many families engaged in farming or small-scale business. Although Bagdad is unincorporated and remains small in size, it has a long history connected to Kentucky’s agricultural economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students in Bagdad attend Shelby County Public Schools, primarily going to schools in nearby Shelbyville. The Bagdad Ruritan Club is a central community organization that holds various local events and activities, reflecting the town’s strong sense of community spirit. The nearby Bagdad Roller Mill, a historic landmark, has been in operation since the 1800s and serves as a reminder of the area’s agricultural past. The community is also located near scenic driving routes that take visitors through the rolling farmland of northern Shelby County, offering a glimpse of Kentucky’s picturesque rural landscapes.
Finchville
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40022
- Latitude: 38.1071° N
- Longitude: 85.3781° W
Location and History
Finchville is a rural, unincorporated community located in southeastern Shelby County, named after the Finch family, who were among the area’s early settlers. Established in the 19th century, Finchville grew as an agricultural settlement, with much of its economy based on farming, particularly tobacco and livestock. Finchville remained a small, close-knit farming community throughout the 20th century and has retained much of its rural character, with a focus on preserving its agricultural heritage. Despite its small size, Finchville is known for its scenic landscapes and traditional Kentucky countryside, making it a peaceful retreat for those seeking rural life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Finchville is served by the Shelby County Public School District, with students attending nearby schools in Shelbyville. A central landmark in the community is the Finchville Baptist Church, which has been a focal point of the community since the 1800s and continues to serve local families. The area is known for its equestrian farms, with many residents involved in horse breeding and training. The surrounding farmland offers picturesque views of Kentucky’s countryside, and Finchville hosts local events, including farm-to-table markets and harvest festivals that celebrate the area’s deep-rooted agricultural traditions.
Waddy
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 40076
- Latitude: 38.1198° N
- Longitude: 85.0541° W
Location and History
Waddy is a small, unincorporated community in eastern Shelby County, located near the Franklin and Anderson County borders. The town developed in the 19th century as a stop along the Louisville and Nashville Railroad, serving as a key point for transporting agricultural products such as tobacco and corn to larger markets. Waddy remained a small agricultural community throughout the 20th century, and today it retains its rural character, with farming and equine activities playing an important role in the local economy. Though small, Waddy has a strong community spirit and deep ties to its farming traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waddy is part of the Shelby County Public Schools system, with students attending schools in Shelbyville. The community is home to the historic Waddy Baptist Church, which has been a local gathering place for more than a century. Waddy’s location along scenic country roads makes it a popular spot for travelers seeking a peaceful drive through Kentucky’s farmland. The town hosts community events, including local church gatherings and seasonal fairs, which bring residents together and celebrate the rural lifestyle that defines the area. Waddy’s quiet, agricultural setting offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to experience Kentucky’s countryside.
