Cities and Towns in Sumter County, Georgia
Founded in 1831, Sumter County is one of 159 counties in the state of Georgia. Historically, Sumter County was formed from Lee County. The city of Americus is the county seat. With FIPS code of 261, Sumter County has a population of 29,283 and area of 485 square miles (1,256 km²).
List of all cities in Sumter County, GA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Americus, GA | 31709 | 229 |
| Americus, GA | 31719 | 229 |
| Andersonville, GA | 31711 | 229 |
| Cobb, GA | 31735 | 229 |
| De Soto, GA | 31743 | 229 |
| Leslie, GA | 31764 | 229 |
| Plains, GA | 31780 | 229 |
Major Cities and Towns in Sumter County, Georgia
Americus
Overview
Americus, the county seat of Sumter County, is a city with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Established in 1832, Americus quickly grew into a center of commerce and trade in southwest Georgia. The city was named by its founders, who sought to create a place of prosperity and growth. Americus played a significant role during the Civil War as a supply hub for the Confederacy and later became known for its contributions to the agricultural industry, particularly in cotton production. The city’s historic downtown district is filled with well-preserved Victorian-era buildings, showcasing its rich architectural heritage. Today, Americus is known for its strong community spirit, cultural events, and educational institutions, making it a key destination in the region.
Key Information
- Area: Approximately 11.2 square miles
- Population: Around 16,000 (latest census)
- Zip Codes: 31709, 31719
- Latitude: 32.0724° N
- Longitude: 84.2327° W
Schools and Landmarks
Americus is served by the Sumter County School District, with Americus-Sumter High School and Furlow Charter School among the primary educational institutions. The city is also home to Georgia Southwestern State University, a notable public university that contributes to the city’s vibrant academic environment. Significant landmarks in Americus include the historic Windsor Hotel, an iconic structure dating back to 1892 that has been restored to its former grandeur. Another key site is Habitat for Humanity’s Global Village & Discovery Center, which highlights the organization’s efforts in affordable housing worldwide. The city’s historic Rylander Theatre hosts a variety of performances and events, adding to the cultural richness of Americus.
Plains
Overview
Plains is a small town in Sumter County, best known as the hometown of former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Established in the 1880s, Plains grew as an agricultural community, with peanuts and cotton as the primary crops. The town’s history is closely tied to the Carter family, who have lived in the area for generations. Plains is a quintessential small Southern town, with a charming downtown area that has retained much of its historical character. The town gained national prominence when Jimmy Carter ran for president in 1976, and it remains a popular destination for those interested in his life and legacy. Plains offers a unique blend of history, agriculture, and Southern hospitality.
Key Information
- Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles
- Population: Around 600 (latest census)
- Zip Codes: 31780
- Latitude: 32.0340° N
- Longitude: 84.3930° W
Schools and Landmarks
Plains is part of the Sumter County School District, with students attending schools in nearby Americus. The town’s most famous landmark is the Jimmy Carter National Historic Site, which includes his boyhood home, high school, and campaign headquarters. The Plains Depot, where Carter launched his presidential campaign, is another key site, now serving as a museum. The town hosts an annual Peanut Festival, celebrating its agricultural heritage and drawing visitors from across the country. Plains is also known for its welcoming community and the opportunity to experience the history of one of America’s most beloved presidents in a small-town setting.
Leslie
Overview
Leslie is a small town in Sumter County with a rich agricultural history and a close-knit community. Founded in 1892, Leslie developed as a center for cotton production, benefiting from its location along the railroad, which provided a direct route for transporting goods to larger markets. The town was named after a prominent local family and quickly grew into a bustling agricultural hub. Although Leslie’s growth slowed in the mid-20th century, it has retained its historical charm, with several buildings in the downtown area reflecting its past prosperity. Today, Leslie is a quiet, rural town that offers a peaceful lifestyle with deep ties to its agricultural roots.
Key Information
- Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles
- Population: Around 400 (latest census)
- Zip Codes: 31764
- Latitude: 31.9552° N
- Longitude: 84.0866° W
Schools and Landmarks
Leslie is part of the Sumter County School District, with students typically attending schools in Americus. The town is home to the Georgia Rural Telephone Museum, one of the most significant landmarks in Leslie, which houses an extensive collection of antique telephones and telephone equipment, showcasing the history of telecommunications in rural America. The Leslie United Methodist Church, a historic structure that has been a central part of the community for over a century, is another key landmark. The town’s annual Fall Festival celebrates its agricultural heritage and provides an opportunity for the community to come together in celebration of its history and culture.
Map of Cities in Sumter County, GA
