Cities and Towns in Smith County, Mississippi
Founded in 1833, Smith County is one of 82 counties in the state of Mississippi. Historically, Smith County was formed from Covington, Jones and Rankin Counties. The city of Raleigh is the county seat. With FIPS code of 129, Smith County has a population of 14,191 and area of 636 square miles (1,647 km²).
List of all cities in Smith County, MS alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Burns, MS | 39153 | 601/769 |
| Mize, MS | 39116 | 601/769 |
| Raleigh, MS | 39153 | 601/769 |
| Sylvarena, MS | 39153 | 601/769 |
| Taylorsville, MS | 39168 | 601/769 |
Major Cities and Towns in Smith County, Mississippi
Smith County is located in central Mississippi, known for its rural landscapes, agricultural traditions, and small-town charm. It includes a mix of historically significant towns and communities that reflect the county’s deep roots in farming and Southern culture. Below are the major cities and towns in Smith County, Mississippi, with details on their geography, history, schools, and landmarks.
Raleigh
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: 1,200 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39153
- Latitude: 31.7391° N
- Longitude: 89.4356° W
Location and History
Raleigh is the county seat of Smith County and is located in the western part of the county, along the strong agricultural corridor that runs through Mississippi. The town was founded in the mid-19th century and named after Raleigh, North Carolina, in tribute to the state of origin of many of the area’s early settlers. Raleigh was established as a small farming and trading community, and its development was spurred by its location along important regional roads, which made it an ideal center for trade and commerce. During the 19th century, Raleigh grew as a supply center for local farmers, and its proximity to the Pearl River allowed the town to serve as a port for transporting goods. The town’s history reflects its deep agricultural roots, and it has maintained a strong rural atmosphere. Raleigh also played an important role in the early education of Smith County residents, with the establishment of local schools in the late 1800s.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Raleigh is served by the Smith County School District, which includes Raleigh High School, one of the primary educational institutions in the area. The town also has several smaller schools, including Raleigh Elementary School. In addition to its schools, Raleigh is home to a number of historical and cultural landmarks, including the Smith County Courthouse, which serves as a hub for local government and is an architectural centerpiece in the town. The Raleigh City Park provides a local space for recreational activities, including sports fields, walking trails, and picnic areas. Raleigh is also known for its charming, historic downtown area, where visitors can explore antique shops and local businesses that reflect the town’s agricultural heritage. The Pearl River running nearby provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing and boating. With its blend of natural beauty and historical significance, Raleigh is the heart of Smith County, offering both residents and visitors a peaceful and historically rich community.
Mize
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.5 square miles
- Population: 800 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39116
- Latitude: 31.7122° N
- Longitude: 89.4379° W
Location and History
Mize is a small town located in the southeastern part of Smith County, approximately 15 miles southeast of Raleigh. It was founded in the early 20th century and named after an early settler, Mize, who established a farm in the area. Mize developed as a rural farming community, primarily focused on timber and agriculture. In the early years, the town was a stop for travelers on the old roads that connected the Mississippi Delta with other parts of the state. Like many towns in the Mississippi Pine Belt, Mize’s economy has traditionally relied on agriculture, specifically cotton and timber. Over time, Mize has remained a quiet, small town, serving as a center for local services and businesses that cater to the surrounding farming communities. Today, Mize is primarily a residential town, with a strong sense of local pride and community spirit.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Mize is served by the Mize School District, which includes Mize High School, where many local students complete their education. The town does not have as many large-scale landmarks as some of the county’s bigger cities, but it is home to Mize City Park, which offers space for outdoor activities like picnics, sports, and community gatherings. The town also hosts an annual Mize Homecoming Festival, which draws visitors from nearby communities and celebrates local history and culture. The town is surrounded by picturesque farmland and forests, making it an ideal location for nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring Mississippi’s rural beauty. While Mize is smaller and quieter than some of Smith County’s larger towns, it is a community that retains the traditions of agricultural life and offers a sense of belonging to its residents.
Mount Olive
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude:
- Area: 2.0 square miles
- Population: 1,100 (2020 Census)
- Zip Code: 39119
- Latitude: 31.7800° N
- Longitude: 89.6436° W
Location and History
Mount Olive is a small town located in the northern part of Smith County, near the border with Simpson County. The town was incorporated in the mid-19th century, and like many towns in Mississippi, its early history was centered around farming, with cotton and timber being primary sources of income for the region’s settlers. Mount Olive earned its name from the nearby hills, which were reminiscent of the biblical Mount Olives. The town grew as a center for local commerce and trade, and its position along several major roads made it a hub for travelers. While Mount Olive has remained a small town throughout its history, it has maintained its rural charm, with a close-knit community and a strong sense of local pride. Over the years, the town has seen gradual development and now serves as a residential community with a focus on small businesses and local services.
Schools and Major Landmarks
Mount Olive is served by the Mount Olive School District, which includes Mount Olive High School. The school system is one of the town’s primary institutions and a central point of pride for the community. Major landmarks in Mount Olive include the Mount Olive Methodist Church, which serves as a historical and religious center for the town. The Mount Olive Community Park is a local gathering spot, with sports facilities, walking trails, and playgrounds for families to enjoy. Mount Olive is also located near the Bienville National Forest, providing access to hiking, hunting, and outdoor recreation in a beautiful natural setting. The town hosts events such as the Mount Olive Christmas Parade and local festivals, which bring the community together and celebrate the traditions of rural Mississippi life. With its scenic surroundings and family-friendly atmosphere, Mount Olive remains a quintessential example of a small Southern town.
Other Communities in Smith County
In addition to Raleigh, Mize, and Mount Olive, Smith County includes smaller unincorporated communities and rural areas such as Hot Coffee, Red Dog, and Sylvarena, each contributing to the overall rural character of the county. These communities are primarily residential and agricultural, with strong ties to farming and natural resource industries. Smith County is defined by its peaceful rural setting, with abundant farmland, pine forests, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
