List of Counties in Missouri
Missouri has 114 counties plus the independent city of St. Louis. The most populous counties are St. Louis County, Jackson County (Kansas City), St. Charles County, St. Louis City, Greene County (Springfield), Clay County, Jefferson County, Boone County (Columbia), Jasper County, and Franklin County. St. Louis County is the most populous, and the city of St. Louis is independent of it. Jackson County, home to Kansas City, is also highly populous and serves as a key economic center.
List of All Counties in Missouri
- Adair County, Missouri
- Andrew County, Missouri
- Atchison County, Missouri
- Audrain County, Missouri
- Barry County, Missouri
- Barton County, Missouri
- Bates County, Missouri
- Benton County, Missouri
- Bollinger County, Missouri
- Boone County, Missouri
- Buchanan County, Missouri
- Butler County, Missouri
- Caldwell County, Missouri
- Callaway County, Missouri
- Camden County, Missouri
- Cape Girardeau County, Missouri
- Carroll County, Missouri
- Carter County, Missouri
- Cass County, Missouri
- Cedar County, Missouri
- Chariton County, Missouri
- Christian County, Missouri
- Clark County, Missouri
- Clay County, Missouri
- Clinton County, Missouri
- Cole County, Missouri
- Cooper County, Missouri
- Crawford County, Missouri
- Dade County, Missouri
- Dallas County, Missouri
- Daviess County, Missouri
- DeKalb County, Missouri
- Dent County, Missouri
- Douglas County, Missouri
- Dunklin County, Missouri
- Franklin County, Missouri
- Gasconade County, Missouri
- Gentry County, Missouri
- Greene County, Missouri
- Grundy County, Missouri
- Harrison County, Missouri
- Henry County, Missouri
- Hickory County, Missouri
- Holt County, Missouri
- Howard County, Missouri
- Howell County, Missouri
- Iron County, Missouri
- Jackson County, Missouri
- Jasper County, Missouri
- Jefferson County, Missouri
- Johnson County, Missouri
- Knox County, Missouri
- Laclede County, Missouri
- Lafayette County, Missouri
- Lawrence County, Missouri
- Lewis County, Missouri
- Lincoln County, Missouri
- Linn County, Missouri
- Livingston County, Missouri
- Macon County, Missouri
- Madison County, Missouri
- Maries County, Missouri
- Marion County, Missouri
- McDonald County, Missouri
- Mercer County, Missouri
- Miller County, Missouri
- Mississippi County, Missouri
- Moniteau County, Missouri
- Monroe County, Missouri
- Montgomery County, Missouri
- Morgan County, Missouri
- New Madrid County, Missouri
- Newton County, Missouri
- Nodaway County, Missouri
- Oregon County, Missouri
- Osage County, Missouri
- Ozark County, Missouri
- Pemiscot County, Missouri
- Perry County, Missouri
- Pettis County, Missouri
- Phelps County, Missouri
- Pike County, Missouri
- Platte County, Missouri
- Polk County, Missouri
- Pulaski County, Missouri
- Putnam County, Missouri
- Ralls County, Missouri
- Randolph County, Missouri
- Ray County, Missouri
- Reynolds County, Missouri
- Ripley County, Missouri
- Saint Charles County, Missouri
- Saint Clair County, Missouri
- Saint Francois County, Missouri
- Saint Louis County, Missouri
- Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri
- Saline County, Missouri
- Schuyler County, Missouri
- Scotland County, Missouri
- Scott County, Missouri
- Shannon County, Missouri
- Shelby County, Missouri
- Stoddard County, Missouri
- Stone County, Missouri
- Sullivan County, Missouri
- Taney County, Missouri
- Texas County, Missouri
- Vernon County, Missouri
- Warren County, Missouri
- Washington County, Missouri
- Wayne County, Missouri
- Webster County, Missouri
- Worth County, Missouri
- Wright County, Missouri
1. Texas County
Overview
Texas County is the largest county by land area in Missouri, located in the south-central part of the state. It is bordered by Phelps County to the north and Howell County to the south. The county seat is Houston, a small town known for its rural charm and close proximity to the Mark Twain National Forest, which covers large portions of the county. Texas County’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with cattle farming and logging being significant industries. Established in 1845, the county was named in solidarity with the Republic of Texas, which had gained independence from Mexico in 1836. Its rural landscape, rolling hills, and rivers make it a haven for outdoor activities such as hunting, fishing, and hiking.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 25,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Houston
- Major Airports: Rolla National Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: US-63, MO-17, MO-32
2. St. Louis County
Overview
St. Louis County is located in eastern Missouri and is part of the St. Louis metropolitan area. It is bordered by the city of St. Louis to the east and Franklin County to the west. The county seat is Clayton, a major financial and administrative center within the metropolitan region. St. Louis County is the most populous county in Missouri and has a diverse economy driven by healthcare, education, finance, and manufacturing. The county is home to several major corporations and universities, including Washington University in St. Louis. Established in 1812, St. Louis County has a rich history tied to the early settlement of the Midwest and its role as a gateway to the West.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 1 million (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Clayton
- Major Airports: St. Louis Lambert International Airport
- Major Highways: I-70, I-64, I-44, I-270, I-170
3. Jackson County
Overview
Jackson County is located in western Missouri and is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area. It is bordered by Johnson County, Kansas, to the west and Cass County to the south. The county seat is shared between Independence, a historic city closely associated with President Harry S. Truman, and Kansas City, Missouri’s largest city. Jackson County has a diverse economy, with key industries including manufacturing, healthcare, transportation, and finance. Kansas City is known for its jazz music, barbecue, and thriving arts scene. Established in 1826, Jackson County was named after President Andrew Jackson, and it has grown into a major urban and economic center in the Midwest.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 725,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Independence and Kansas City (shared)
- Major Airports: Kansas City International Airport
- Major Highways: I-70, I-435, I-470, US-24, US-40
4. Greene County
Overview
Greene County is located in southwestern Missouri and is home to Springfield, the third-largest city in the state and the county seat. It is bordered by Webster County to the east and Christian County to the south. Greene County is an economic hub for the region, with a diverse economy that includes healthcare, education, manufacturing, and retail. Springfield is home to Missouri State University, which is a significant contributor to the local economy. Established in 1833, Greene County was named after Revolutionary War hero General Nathanael Greene. The county has experienced steady growth and is a key cultural and economic center in southern Missouri.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 300,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Springfield
- Major Airports: Springfield-Branson National Airport
- Major Highways: I-44, US-60, US-65
5. Taney County
Overview
Taney County is located in southern Missouri, bordered by Arkansas to the south and Christian County to the north. The county seat is Forsyth, though Branson is the largest city and one of the most famous tourist destinations in the state. Taney County’s economy is heavily dependent on tourism, with Branson attracting millions of visitors annually to its entertainment theaters, lakes, and outdoor activities. The area is also known for Table Rock Lake and the scenic Ozark Mountains. Established in 1837, Taney County was named after Roger B. Taney, the Chief Justice of the United States at the time. The county has transformed from a rural area to a major tourist hub over the past century.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 58,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Forsyth
- Major Airports: Branson Airport
- Major Highways: US-65, MO-76, MO-160
6. Boone County
Overview
Boone County is located in central Missouri, bordered by Callaway County to the east and Howard County to the north. The county seat is Columbia, a vibrant city known for being home to the University of Missouri. Boone County’s economy is centered around education, healthcare, and government, with Columbia serving as a regional center for these sectors. The presence of the University of Missouri brings a dynamic cultural and academic atmosphere to the area. Established in 1820, Boone County was named after the famous frontiersman Daniel Boone, and its rich history includes being a key location for Missouri’s early settlement and agricultural development.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 190,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Columbia
- Major Airports: Columbia Regional Airport
- Major Highways: I-70, US-63, MO-163
7. Franklin County
Overview
Franklin County is located in east-central Missouri, bordered by St. Louis County to the northeast and Gasconade County to the west. The county seat is Union, a small town known for its historic courthouse and role as a regional hub. Franklin County is a mix of rural farmland and small towns, with a strong agricultural base, particularly in crops and livestock. The county’s economy also includes manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Established in 1818, the county was named after Benjamin Franklin. Over the years, Franklin County has maintained its rural character while benefiting from its proximity to the St. Louis metropolitan area.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 104,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Union
- Major Airports: St. Louis Lambert International Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: I-44, US-50, MO-100
8. Clay County
Overview
Clay County is located in western Missouri, just north of Kansas City and bordered by the Missouri River to the south. The county seat is Liberty, a historic town known for its connection to the Civil War and the outlaw Jesse James. Clay County is part of the Kansas City metropolitan area and has a diverse economy that includes healthcare, manufacturing, and retail. Liberty is home to William Jewell College, and the county has seen significant growth due to suburban expansion. Established in 1822, Clay County was named after Henry Clay, a prominent U.S. senator and statesman. The county has a rich historical legacy tied to early Missouri settlement and frontier life.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 260,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Liberty
- Major Airports: Kansas City International Airport
- Major Highways: I-35, US-69, MO-152
9. Jasper County
Overview
Jasper County is located in southwestern Missouri, bordered by Newton County to the south and Barton County to the north. The county seat is shared between Carthage and Joplin, with Joplin serving as the economic center of the region. Jasper County has a diverse economy, with key sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail. Joplin is known for its history in the mining industry, particularly lead and zinc, and today it serves as a regional hub for commerce and transportation. Established in 1841, Jasper County was named after William Jasper, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. The area’s historical significance also includes its connection to Route 66, which passes through the county.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 125,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Carthage and Joplin (shared)
- Major Airports: Joplin Regional Airport
- Major Highways: I-44, US-71, MO-66
10. Jefferson County
Overview
Jefferson County is located in eastern Missouri, bordered by St. Louis County to the north and the Mississippi River to the east. The county seat is Hillsboro, a small town known for its historic buildings and rural setting. Jefferson County is part of the St. Louis metropolitan area and has experienced significant suburban growth, with much of the population living in the northern part of the county. The economy is based on healthcare, retail, and manufacturing, with many residents commuting to St. Louis for work. Established in 1818, Jefferson County was named after President Thomas Jefferson, and its history is tied to early Missouri settlement and agriculture.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 230,000 (2023 estimate)
- County Seat: Hillsboro
- Major Airports: St. Louis Lambert International Airport (nearby)
- Major Highways: I-55, US-61, MO-21