Cities and Towns in Taylor County, Florida
Founded in 1856, Taylor County is one of 67 counties in the state of Florida. Historically, Taylor County was formed from Madison. The city of Perry is the county seat. With FIPS code of 123, Taylor County has a population of 21,815 and area of 1,042 square miles (2,699 km²).
List of all cities in Taylor County, FL alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Jena, FL | 32359 | 352 |
| Perry, FL | 32347 | 850 |
| 32348 | 850 | |
| Salem, FL | 32356 | 850 |
| Shady Grove, FL | 32357 | 850 |
| Steinhatchee, FL | 32359 | 352 |
Major Cities and Towns in Taylor County, Florida
Perry
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 9.3 square miles
- Population: Approximately 7,000 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32347, 32348
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.1175° N, 83.5818° W
Location and History
Perry is the county seat and largest city in Taylor County, located in the Big Bend region of Florida. The city was established in the mid-19th century and was named after Madison Stark Perry, the fourth governor of Florida. Perry’s early economy was primarily based on agriculture and timber, with its forests being a significant source of lumber and naval stores. Over time, the city grew as a commercial hub for the surrounding rural areas, with the development of railroads further boosting its economic significance. Today, Perry retains its small-town charm while serving as a center for government, commerce, and community life in Taylor County.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Perry is served by the Taylor County School District, with Taylor County High School and Perry Primary School being key educational institutions. The city is also home to North Florida Community College’s Perry Center, which provides higher education and vocational training opportunities. Major landmarks in Perry include the Taylor County Historical Society Museum, which offers insights into the area’s rich history and cultural heritage. Forest Capital Museum State Park, located just outside the city, is another significant landmark, celebrating the region’s forestry industry with exhibits and events. Additionally, Perry is known for its annual Florida Forest Festival, which honors the county’s timber heritage with parades, contests, and other festivities.
Steinhatchee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 2.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,049 (2020 Census)
- Zip Codes: 32359
- Latitude and Longitude: 29.6729° N, 83.3854° W
Location and History
Steinhatchee is a small coastal community located at the mouth of the Steinhatchee River, on the Gulf of Mexico. The area has been inhabited for thousands of years, originally by Native American tribes, and later became a settlement for European explorers and settlers. Steinhatchee’s history is closely tied to the river and the Gulf, with fishing, crabbing, and oystering forming the backbone of the local economy. The town is known for its natural beauty, with the Steinhatchee River offering excellent opportunities for boating, fishing, and scalloping. Despite its small size, Steinhatchee has a rich cultural heritage and serves as a popular destination for those seeking a quiet, coastal retreat.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Steinhatchee is served by the Taylor County School District, with Steinhatchee School providing education for local children from pre-kindergarten through 8th grade. The town is also known for its close-knit community and local events that celebrate its maritime heritage. Major landmarks in Steinhatchee include the Steinhatchee Falls, the widest waterfall in Florida, which is a popular spot for picnicking and outdoor activities. The Steinhatchee River is another key landmark, offering a scenic backdrop for the town and serving as a hub for recreational activities. The nearby Gulf coastline is dotted with natural preserves and parks, making Steinhatchee a gateway to exploring Florida’s Big Bend region.
Shady Grove
Area, Population, Zip Codes, and Coordinates
- Area: 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 300 (estimated, not officially counted in recent census)
- Zip Codes: 32357
- Latitude and Longitude: 30.1921° N, 83.6026° W
Location and History
Shady Grove is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Taylor County. The town’s history is rooted in agriculture, with farming and timber playing a central role in its development. Shady Grove has remained largely rural and undeveloped, preserving much of its natural environment and traditional way of life. The community is known for its peaceful atmosphere and strong sense of community, with generations of families calling Shady Grove home. While it has not experienced the same level of growth as other areas in the county, Shady Grove remains an important part of Taylor County’s cultural and agricultural landscape.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Shady Grove is served by schools in nearby Perry, as it does not have its own public school system. The community is close-knit, with local churches and community centers playing a significant role in social life. Major landmarks in Shady Grove include several historic churches, such as Shady Grove Primitive Baptist Church, which has been a focal point of the community for over a century. The surrounding countryside offers opportunities for hunting, fishing, and exploring Florida’s natural beauty, with numerous creeks, forests, and wildlife areas in the vicinity. Shady Grove’s rural charm and slower pace of life make it a unique and cherished part of Taylor County.
Map of Cities in Taylor County, FL
