Cities and Towns in Stoddard County, Missouri

Founded in 1835, Stoddard County is one of 114 counties in the state of Missouri. Historically, Stoddard County was formed from New Madrid County. The city of Bloomfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 207, Stoddard County has a population of 28,479 and area of 827 square miles (2,142 km²).

List of all cities in Stoddard County, MO alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Acornridge, MO	63960	573
Advance, MO	63730	573
Asherville, MO	63960	573
Bell City, MO	63735	573
Bernie, MO	63822	573
Bloomfield, MO	63825	573
Brownwood, MO	63738	573
Dexter, MO	63841	573
Dudley, MO	63936	573
Essex, MO	63846	573
Grayridge, MO	63850	573
Greenbrier, MO	63730	573
Kinder, MO	63960	573
Puxico, MO	63960	573

Major Cities and Towns in Stoddard County, Missouri

Dexter

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 6.62 sq mi
• Population: 8,698 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 63841
• Latitude: 36.7836° N
• Longitude: 89.5837° W

Location and History

Dexter is the largest city and county seat of Stoddard County, located in southeastern Missouri. The town was established in 1873, and its strategic location along the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway played a key role in its development. Dexter’s early economy was centered around agriculture, particularly cotton farming, which was bolstered by the proximity of the St. Francis River. In the 20th century, the city became known as a regional hub for commerce, with a mix of farming, retail, and light industry. The construction of highways and improved infrastructure has helped Dexter maintain its position as a commercial and cultural center in the region. The town also played a role in the cotton industry until the mid-20th century, and agriculture remains an important aspect of its economy today. Dexter is known for its friendly, small-town atmosphere, and it offers a range of services to residents and visitors alike. With its historical roots, economic stability, and access to local rivers and lakes, Dexter is a key community in the southeastern part of the state.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Dexter is served by the Dexter R-XI School District, which includes Dexter High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its strong academic programs and sports teams. The city also features several community amenities, including the Dexter City Park, which offers picnic areas, sports fields, and playgrounds, making it a popular spot for family activities. The Stoddard County Courthouse, located in the heart of downtown Dexter, is a key historical landmark and a symbol of the city’s role as the county seat. Additionally, the city is home to the historic Colonial House, which provides a glimpse into the architectural style of the late 19th century. Dexter is also close to several natural attractions, including the St. Francis River and Lake Show-Me, where visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and hiking. The town hosts various community events throughout the year, including the Stoddard County Fair, which celebrates the area’s agricultural heritage. These landmarks and community spaces make Dexter an important cultural and recreational center in Stoddard County.

Advance

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.70 sq mi
• Population: 1,015 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 63730
• Latitude: 37.0526° N
• Longitude: 89.4560° W

Location and History

Advance is a small town located in the western part of Stoddard County, Missouri. The town was founded in the late 19th century, around the time the railroad was expanding into southeastern Missouri. Its name is believed to reflect the town’s location as an “advance” station along the railroad route. As with many towns in the region, Advance’s economy initially revolved around agriculture, particularly cotton and soybeans, as well as the timber industry, which was abundant in the surrounding forests. The town remained a small, quiet community for much of the 20th century, but it began to see growth after the construction of U.S. Highway 25, which connected Advance to nearby towns and cities. The town’s proximity to other agricultural centers, combined with its access to major highways, helped spur local development. Today, Advance remains a rural town, with farming and local businesses forming the backbone of its economy. The town’s rural charm and close-knit community make it a peaceful place to live while still offering access to nearby services and entertainment.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Advance is served by the Advance R-IV School District, which includes Advance High School, Middle School, and the elementary school. The school district is known for its strong athletic programs and commitment to community involvement. One of the town’s major landmarks is the historic Advance City Park, which provides a green space for residents to enjoy outdoor activities like picnicking, sports, and walking. The park also hosts local events and festivals throughout the year. Advance is surrounded by a picturesque landscape of rolling hills, farmland, and forests, which provides ample opportunities for outdoor recreation, such as hunting, fishing, and hiking. The town is also within a short driving distance of larger cities like Cape Girardeau, making it convenient for residents to access additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Local businesses in Advance provide essential services to the community, while the surrounding farmland remains an important part of the town’s economy.

Bernie

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.80 sq mi
• Population: 1,551 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 63822
• Latitude: 36.7032° N
• Longitude: 89.7794° W

Location and History

Bernie is a small town located in the southeastern corner of Stoddard County, Missouri. The town was established in the late 19th century and grew rapidly during the early 20th century due to its location along the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway. Like many communities in southeastern Missouri, Bernie’s economy has historically been centered around agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops like cotton, corn, and soybeans. The town also has a rich history tied to the timber industry, with lumber mills operating in the area during the early 1900s. Over the years, Bernie has remained a quiet, rural community, with farming continuing to be a vital part of its economy. The town’s small size and agricultural base have helped it maintain a slower-paced, tight-knit atmosphere that attracts those looking for a peaceful lifestyle. In recent decades, Bernie has also become more connected to the regional economy, with nearby communities like Dexter and Poplar Bluff offering expanded services and employment opportunities. Bernie remains a friendly and welcoming community that is proud of its agricultural heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Bernie is served by the Bernie R-XIII School District, which includes Bernie High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is known for its commitment to providing high-quality education to local students, as well as its sports programs. One of Bernie’s key landmarks is the historic downtown area, which features a number of early 20th-century buildings that reflect the town’s agricultural roots. The town is also home to several local parks and recreational facilities, where residents can enjoy outdoor activities like sports, walking, and community events. Bernie’s small-town atmosphere is enhanced by its friendly residents and local businesses, which serve the needs of the community. The town is also close to Lake Wappapello, which is a popular destination for fishing, boating, and camping. With its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and strong community spirit, Bernie is an appealing place for those seeking a rural lifestyle with access to outdoor recreation.

Puxico

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude

• Area: 0.64 sq mi
• Population: 1,374 (2020 Census)
• Zip Codes: 63960
• Latitude: 36.9029° N
• Longitude: 89.4210° W

Location and History

Puxico is a small town located in the northern part of Stoddard County, Missouri, near the intersection of U.S. Highways 51 and 60. The town was settled in the late 19th century, with early development fueled by the arrival of the railroad and the expansion of agriculture in the area. Puxico is named after a nearby creek, and it was initially a farming community that produced crops such as cotton, corn, and wheat. The town’s economy was further supported by local businesses and small industries that catered to the surrounding rural population. Puxico has remained a quiet, rural town, but it has experienced periods of growth as its proximity to larger cities like Poplar Bluff and Dexter makes it an appealing place for those seeking a slower-paced lifestyle with access to urban amenities. Today, Puxico continues to be an agricultural center, with many residents engaged in farming, and the town maintains a close-knit community atmosphere.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Puxico is served by the Puxico R-VIII School District, which includes Puxico High School, Middle School, and several elementary schools. The district is well-regarded for its educational programs and community involvement. Puxico’s main landmark is the Puxico City Park, which features a pavilion, picnic areas, and recreational facilities for local residents and visitors. The park is also a popular location for the town’s annual Puxico Homecoming Festival, which celebrates the town’s history and community spirit. The town is located near several outdoor recreational areas, including the Wappapello Lake, which offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping. Puxico’s small-town charm, combined with its proximity to regional recreational areas and larger cities, makes it an attractive place for those seeking a rural lifestyle with easy access to additional services and entertainment. Local businesses in Puxico provide essential services to the community, including grocery stores, restaurants, and specialty shops. The town also has a strong sense of community, with residents coming together to celebrate local traditions and maintain the town’s historical heritage.