Cities and Towns in Simpson County, Kentucky
Founded in 1819, Simpson County is one of 120 counties in the state of Kentucky. Historically, Simpson County was formed from Allen County, Logan County and Warren County. The city of Franklin is the county seat. With FIPS code of 213, Simpson County has a population of 19,718 and area of 236 square miles (611 km²).
List of all cities in Simpson County, KY alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Franklin, KY | 42134 | 270 |
| 42135 | 270 |
Major Cities and Towns in Simpson County, Kentucky
Franklin
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: 13.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 9,000 (as of the 2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 42134
- Latitude: 36.7244° N
- Longitude: 86.5777° W
Location and History
Franklin is the county seat and largest city in Simpson County, located in south-central Kentucky near the Tennessee border. The city was established in 1820 and named after Benjamin Franklin. Franklin grew as an agricultural center, thanks to the rich farmland in the surrounding area. By the late 19th century, Franklin became a hub for tobacco production, and the Louisville and Nashville Railroad helped facilitate trade and travel. The city’s proximity to Nashville, Tennessee, just 45 minutes to the south, has also contributed to its growth over time. Franklin retains a small-town charm while serving as a regional center for business and culture, making it an important part of Simpson County’s economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Franklin is served by the Simpson County School District, including Franklin-Simpson High School, Franklin-Simpson Middle School, and Simpson Elementary School. The city’s downtown area features historic landmarks such as the Simpson County Courthouse, built in the late 19th century, and the Simpson County Archives and Museum, which preserves local history. One of the most notable attractions is the Octagon Hall Museum, a historic home built in 1847, now serving as a Civil War and paranormal museum. Franklin is also home to the Kentucky Downs Racetrack, a popular venue for horse racing enthusiasts. Additionally, the annual Simpson County Fair and the Tobacco Festival celebrate the city’s agricultural heritage.
Woodburn
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42170
- Latitude: 36.8369° N
- Longitude: 86.5317° W
Location and History
Woodburn is a small, unincorporated community located in northern Simpson County, close to the Warren County line. The town developed in the mid-19th century, primarily as a railroad stop along the Louisville and Nashville Railroad. Woodburn quickly grew into an agricultural community, with tobacco farming being the primary economic activity in the area. The town’s proximity to Bowling Green and Franklin made it an ideal location for shipping goods and agricultural products. Though small, Woodburn has retained much of its historical character, with many of its 19th-century buildings still standing today. Over time, the town has become a quiet residential community with deep ties to its agricultural past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Woodburn is served by Simpson County Schools, with students attending schools in nearby Franklin. One of the town’s key landmarks is the historic Woodburn Baptist Church, which has been a community gathering place since the late 1800s. The area is known for its picturesque countryside, with rolling fields of tobacco and corn that reflect its agricultural roots. The town is also located near the Mammoth Cave National Park, offering outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and cave tours. Residents of Woodburn enjoy the tranquility of rural life while being close to the amenities of larger nearby cities like Franklin and Bowling Green.
Middleton
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42134 (shares with Franklin)
- Latitude: 36.7111° N
- Longitude: 86.5114° W
Location and History
Middleton is a small, unincorporated community located southeast of Franklin in Simpson County. The community developed in the early 19th century as a farming settlement, with its residents primarily engaged in tobacco farming, livestock raising, and small-scale trade. Although Middleton has remained small and rural, it has benefited from its proximity to Franklin, offering residents access to both rural tranquility and the conveniences of a larger town. The community has retained its agricultural heritage, with many farms passed down through generations, and continues to be an integral part of Simpson County’s rural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students in Middleton attend Simpson County Schools, including Franklin-Simpson High School in nearby Franklin. While Middleton does not have large landmarks, it is home to several historic farms and churches that reflect its deep-rooted agricultural and religious traditions. The countryside around Middleton offers scenic drives through rolling farmland, dotted with barns and pastures. The community is also located near the Red River, providing opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and kayaking. Middleton’s quiet, rural atmosphere makes it an ideal place for those seeking a peaceful life connected to nature and farming traditions.
Gold City
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42134 (shares with Franklin)
- Latitude: 36.6298° N
- Longitude: 86.5253° W
Location and History
Gold City is a small, unincorporated community located in the southern part of Simpson County, near the Tennessee border. The town’s name is thought to derive from a local legend involving the discovery of gold in the area during the 19th century, although no significant gold deposits were ever confirmed. Gold City developed primarily as a farming community, with residents focusing on tobacco, corn, and livestock farming. The town’s rural location and rich agricultural land made it an important part of Simpson County’s farming economy. Today, Gold City remains a quiet, close-knit community with a strong connection to its agricultural past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gold City is part of the Simpson County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Franklin. The community is known for its scenic countryside, characterized by rolling farmland and historic homesteads that have been in families for generations. Gold City is also close to the Kentucky-Tennessee state line, providing easy access to attractions and amenities in both states. Local churches and farms serve as important landmarks, reflecting the area’s rural character and deep community ties. Gold City offers a peaceful, rural lifestyle, making it a charming place for those seeking a slower pace of life connected to the land.
Prices Mill
Area, Population, and Geographic Information
- Area: N/A (Unincorporated community)
- Population: Approximate population not available (Unincorporated)
- ZIP Code: 42134 (shares with Franklin)
- Latitude: 36.6822° N
- Longitude: 86.5842° W
Location and History
Prices Mill is a historic, unincorporated community located northwest of Franklin in Simpson County. The community takes its name from an old gristmill that once operated along the banks of the nearby Drakes Creek. Founded in the early 1800s, Prices Mill became an important local center for milling grain and producing flour for the surrounding agricultural community. The town’s location along Drakes Creek allowed farmers to easily transport their goods to nearby markets. Although the mill no longer operates, the community remains a small agricultural area, with many residents engaged in farming and raising livestock.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Students in Prices Mill attend schools in the Simpson County School District, including Franklin-Simpson High School in Franklin. One of the key historical landmarks is the site of the old Prices Mill, which played a vital role in the town’s early economy. The nearby Drakes Creek provides opportunities for fishing and kayaking, while the surrounding farmland offers scenic views of rural Kentucky. Prices Mill is also close to the Franklin Historic District, allowing residents to enjoy the history and culture of the larger nearby town. The community’s peaceful setting and rich agricultural heritage continue to define Prices Mill’s identity within Simpson County.
