Cities and Towns in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Founded in 1869, Tangipahoa Parish is one of 64 parishes in the state of Louisiana. Historically, Tangipahoa Parish was formed from parts of Livingston Parish, St. Helena Parish, St. Tammany Parish and Washington Parish. The city of Amite City is the parish seat. With FIPS code of 105, Tangipahoa Parish has a population of 135,217 and area of 823 square miles (2,132 km²).

List of all cities in Tangipahoa Parish, LA alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Akers, LA 70421 985
Amite, LA 70422 985
Arcola, LA 70456 985
Fluker, LA 70436 985
Grangeville, LA 70422 985
Hammond, LA 70401 985
70402 985
70403 985
70404 985
Hillsdale, LA 70422 985
Husser, LA 70442 985
Independence, LA 70443 985
Kentwood, LA 70444 985
Loranger, LA 70446 985
Montpelier, LA 70422 985
Natalbany, LA 70451 985
New Zion, LA 70444 985
Ponchatoula, LA 70454 985
Robert, LA 70455 985
Roseland, LA 70456 985
Slu, LA 70402 985
Southeastern Louisiana University, LA 70402 985
Springcreek, LA 70444 985
Sunnyhill, LA 70444 985
Tangipahoa, LA 70465 985
Tickfaw, LA 70466 985

Major Cities and Towns in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana

Hammond

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 14.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 21,359 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 70401, 70403
  • Latitude: 30.5044° N
  • Longitude: 90.4629° W

Location and History

Hammond is the largest city in Tangipahoa Parish, located in southeastern Louisiana. Positioned at the crossroads of Interstates 12 and 55, Hammond is a vital transportation hub and the economic center of the parish. The city was founded in the early 19th century by Peter Hammond, a Swedish immigrant, and initially developed as a timber and railroad town. The arrival of the Illinois Central Railroad in the late 19th century helped the city flourish as a major distribution center for strawberries and other agricultural products, giving it the nickname “Strawberry Capital of the World.” Today, Hammond has a diversified economy with roots in education, transportation, and healthcare.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Hammond is home to Southeastern Louisiana University, a key institution for higher education in the region, and Hammond High Magnet School. Major landmarks include the Louisiana Children’s Discovery Center, which offers educational exhibits for families, and the Tangipahoa African American Heritage Museum. The downtown area is known for its historic architecture, boutiques, and restaurants, reflecting its rich cultural heritage. The annual Hammond Smokin’ BBQ Challenge and the Southeastern Louisiana University Strawberry Jubilee are two popular events that celebrate the city’s past. Additionally, the proximity to the Tickfaw State Park provides outdoor recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Amite City

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 3.9 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,141 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 70422
  • Latitude: 30.7310° N
  • Longitude: 90.5093° W

Location and History

Amite City is the parish seat of Tangipahoa Parish, located in the northern part of the parish along Interstate 55. The town was founded in the mid-19th century as a railroad stop and quickly grew into a center for trade and agriculture, particularly in cotton and dairy farming. Amite City has a rich Civil War history, serving as a supply depot for Confederate forces. The name “Amite” is derived from the French word for “friendship,” which reflects the town’s welcoming atmosphere. Today, Amite City is known for its friendly, small-town charm and historical significance.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Amite City is served by Amite High Magnet School and Oak Forest Academy, a private K-12 school. The town’s key landmarks include the Tangipahoa Parish Courthouse, an architectural icon in the center of downtown, and the Florida Parishes Arena, which hosts livestock shows, rodeos, and community events. The annual Oyster Festival, held each March, celebrates Louisiana’s seafood heritage with food, music, and parades. Nearby attractions include the Camp Moore Confederate Museum, which preserves artifacts from the Civil War era, offering insight into the town’s historic past.

Ponchatoula

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 4.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 7,791 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 70454
  • Latitude: 30.4385° N
  • Longitude: 90.4417° W

Location and History

Ponchatoula is a historic town located just south of Hammond in Tangipahoa Parish. It was established in 1861, and its name is derived from the Choctaw words “pashi” and “itula,” meaning “falling hair” or “hanging moss,” a nod to the moss-draped trees common in the area. Ponchatoula is known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World,” and its economy historically revolved around strawberry farming and lumber. The town has grown into a vibrant cultural and commercial center, attracting visitors with its antique shops, art galleries, and festivals.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ponchatoula is served by Ponchatoula High School and D.C. Reeves Elementary School. A major landmark is the Collinswood Museum, which houses artifacts and exhibits on the town’s history and local culture. Ponchatoula is also famous for its annual Strawberry Festival, one of Louisiana’s largest free festivals, which celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with food, crafts, and live entertainment. The town’s historic district is home to charming shops, restaurants, and the iconic “Old Hardhide,” a live alligator on display in the town square. The scenic Joyce Wildlife Management Area, located nearby, offers hiking and wildlife-watching opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

Independence

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.3 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 1,845 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 70443
  • Latitude: 30.6355° N
  • Longitude: 90.5051° W

Location and History

Independence is a small town located in the northern part of Tangipahoa Parish, along U.S. Highway 51. It was founded in the late 19th century by Italian immigrants and quickly became a thriving agricultural community known for its vineyards, vegetable farms, and strawberry fields. The town’s Italian heritage is still prominent today, reflected in its architecture, festivals, and cuisine. Independence has retained its small-town feel while preserving its cultural roots, making it a unique and vibrant community in the parish.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Independence High School and Mater Dolorosa Catholic School are the primary educational institutions serving the town. One of the key landmarks in Independence is the Independence Italian Cultural Museum, which showcases the history and contributions of Italian immigrants in the area. The annual Independence Sicilian Heritage Festival celebrates the town’s cultural legacy with food, music, and traditional Sicilian dances. The nearby Camp Moore, the site of a Confederate training camp during the Civil War, is also a significant historical site. Independence’s strong sense of community and cultural pride make it a unique destination within Tangipahoa Parish.

Kentwood

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 7.0 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 2,198 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 70444
  • Latitude: 30.9391° N
  • Longitude: 90.5085° W

Location and History

Kentwood is located in the northernmost part of Tangipahoa Parish, near the Mississippi state line. Founded in 1889, Kentwood originally developed as a railroad town and grew as an agricultural center, particularly known for dairy farming. It is also famous as the birthplace of pop star Britney Spears, which has brought the town international recognition. Kentwood remains a rural community with a strong agricultural base, though it has also embraced its musical heritage and small-town charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Kentwood High Magnet School and O.W. Dillon Elementary are the main educational institutions in the town. Major landmarks in Kentwood include the Kentwood Historical and Cultural Museum, which highlights the town’s agricultural history, railroad roots, and the life of Britney Spears. The Spears family home is a popular attraction for fans visiting the town. Kentwood hosts the annual Dairy Festival, which celebrates the area’s dairy farming heritage with parades, food, and live entertainment. The town is also located near the Tangipahoa River, offering opportunities for fishing and outdoor recreation.

Tickfaw

Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude

  • Area: 2.2 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 666 (2020 census)
  • Zip Codes: 70466
  • Latitude: 30.5835° N
  • Longitude: 90.4874° W

Location and History

Tickfaw is a small village located in central Tangipahoa Parish, just north of Hammond. The town’s name comes from the Choctaw word “tiakfoha,” meaning “pine rest,” reflecting the area’s wooded landscape. Established in the early 20th century as a rural farming community, Tickfaw grew around the railroad and agricultural industries, particularly strawberry farming and dairy production. The village has maintained its rural character and close-knit community, offering a peaceful lifestyle amidst the natural beauty of southern Louisiana.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tickfaw is served by nearby schools, including Independence High School and Champ Cooper Elementary. The Tickfaw State Park, located just outside the village, is the town’s most significant landmark, offering opportunities for hiking, fishing, camping, and canoeing in the park’s scenic wetlands. The park also features a nature center with exhibits on the region’s flora and fauna. Tickfaw hosts community events throughout the year, including local farmers’ markets and festivals that celebrate the area’s agricultural heritage. The village’s quiet, rural atmosphere and natural beauty make it a hidden gem in Tangipahoa Parish.