Cities in Houston County, AL
Houston County, located in the southeastern corner of Alabama, was established in 1903, making it one of the state’s youngest counties. The county is named after George S. Houston, a former governor of Alabama. Houston County’s economy historically revolved around agriculture, particularly cotton farming, but has since diversified into industries such as aerospace, healthcare, and retail. The city of Dothan, the county seat, is known as “The Peanut Capital of the World” and plays a central role in the region’s agricultural industry. Houston County also serves as a transportation and economic hub for southeastern Alabama, given its proximity to both Florida and Georgia.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 105,882 (2020 Census)
- County Seat: Dothan
- Number of Cities and Towns: 5 (Dothan, Ashford, Cottonwood, Gordon, and Webb)
List of Cities and Towns in Houston County, AL
Dothan
City Facts
- Area: 90.0 square miles
- Population: 71,072 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 31.2232° N
- Longitude: 85.3905° W
City Overview
Dothan, the largest city and county seat of Houston County, is situated in southeastern Alabama, near the borders of both Georgia and Florida. Originally a small community known as Poplar Head, the city was renamed Dothan in 1885. Throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dothan became a central hub for the region’s cotton industry. However, the boll weevil infestation in the early 1900s devastated cotton production, leading the city to shift its focus to peanut farming. Today, Dothan is known as “The Peanut Capital of the World,” and the city’s economy has expanded to include healthcare, retail, and technology sectors. Its location along major highways, including U.S. 231 and U.S. 84, makes it an important transportation hub.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Dothan is home to several notable landmarks, including the Dothan Opera House, a historic building from the early 20th century, and the Wiregrass Museum of Art, which features local and regional art exhibits. The National Peanut Festival, held annually, celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage. In terms of education, Dothan is served by the Dothan City Schools system, with notable institutions such as Dothan High School and Carver Magnet School. Higher education is offered at Wallace Community College. Dothan’s vibrant economy, cultural institutions, and festivals make it a dynamic and growing city.
Ashford
City Facts
- Area: 6.1 square miles
- Population: 2,148 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 31.1841° N
- Longitude: 85.2352° W
City Overview
Ashford is located in the eastern part of Houston County, about 12 miles from Dothan. The town was established in the late 19th century, with its development closely tied to the arrival of the railroad, which made it an important shipping point for local agricultural products. Initially a small farming community, Ashford has grown over the years while maintaining its rural character. The town’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, particularly cotton, peanuts, and timber. Today, Ashford serves as a bedroom community for Dothan, with many residents commuting to the larger city for work while enjoying the quieter, small-town atmosphere.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Ashford’s landmarks include the Ashford Depot, a historic train station that now serves as a community center, and several churches that date back to the town’s early days. The Ashford Depot offers a glimpse into the town’s past as a key railroad stop. Ashford Academy, a private school, and Ashford High School, part of the Houston County Schools system, provide educational opportunities for the town’s youth. With its blend of history and proximity to Dothan, Ashford remains an important part of Houston County’s fabric, offering a peaceful, rural lifestyle close to the amenities of a larger city.
Cottonwood
City Facts
- Area: 5.0 square miles
- Population: 1,256 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 31.0542° N
- Longitude: 85.3019° W
City Overview
Cottonwood is a small town in southern Houston County, located near the Alabama-Florida border. Established in the late 1800s, Cottonwood’s name reflects its early cotton-based economy. Like many towns in the region, it relied heavily on agriculture, with cotton and peanuts being the primary crops. Over time, Cottonwood has maintained its small-town charm, with agriculture still playing a significant role in the local economy, though many residents now commute to nearby Dothan for work. The town has a close-knit community and is known for its quiet, rural lifestyle.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Key landmarks in Cottonwood include the historic Cottonwood Presbyterian Church and several farms that highlight the town’s agricultural heritage. The town is served by Cottonwood High School, which is part of the Houston County Schools system and provides education from kindergarten through 12th grade. Cottonwood’s small-town feel, combined with its proximity to both Dothan and the Florida state line, makes it an appealing place for those seeking a rural lifestyle within reach of larger cities. The town’s agricultural roots remain an important part of its identity.
Gordon
City Facts
- Area: 3.1 square miles
- Population: 326 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 31.1402° N
- Longitude: 85.0920° W
City Overview
Gordon is a small town located in the southeastern corner of Houston County, near the Georgia and Florida state lines. Founded in the early 20th century, Gordon’s development was closely linked to the agricultural industry, particularly cotton and peanuts, as well as the lumber trade. Its location along the Chattahoochee River made it an important shipping point for agricultural and timber products. While the town remains small, Gordon’s history is deeply intertwined with the region’s agricultural and river-based economy. Today, the town continues to be a rural community, with much of its population involved in farming or commuting to nearby cities for work.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Gordon’s most notable landmark is its proximity to the Chattahoochee River, which offers recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and camping. The town is also home to several historical churches and small farms that reflect its agricultural past. The Gordon Elementary School, part of the Houston County Schools system, serves younger students in the area. Despite its small size, Gordon’s scenic location near the river and its quiet, rural lifestyle make it a unique part of Houston County’s landscape.
Webb
City Facts
- Area: 11.1 square miles
- Population: 1,019 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 31.2596° N
- Longitude: 85.2803° W
City Overview
Webb is a small town located northeast of Dothan, about 10 miles from the county seat. The town was established in the late 19th century and grew as an agricultural community. Cotton and peanuts have long been the primary crops in Webb, which shares the agricultural heritage of the surrounding region. Over the years, Webb has remained a small, close-knit town, with much of its economy still focused on farming and small businesses. Its location near Dothan allows residents to enjoy both the rural environment of Webb and the urban amenities of the larger city.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Webb is home to several historical buildings, including the Webb Baptist Church and other community landmarks that reflect its agricultural roots. The town also features local parks and recreational areas that serve as gathering spots for residents. Webb Elementary School, part of the Houston County Schools system, provides education for the town’s children, while older students typically attend high schools in Dothan. The town’s blend of rural life, historic buildings, and access to larger urban centers makes it an attractive place for those seeking a quieter, more rural lifestyle within reach of modern amenities.