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.

Counties in Missouri

List of All Counties in Missouri

  1. Adair County, Missouri
  2. Andrew County, Missouri
  3. Atchison County, Missouri
  4. Audrain County, Missouri
  5. Barry County, Missouri
  6. Barton County, Missouri
  7. Bates County, Missouri
  8. Benton County, Missouri
  9. Bollinger County, Missouri
  10. Boone County, Missouri
  11. Buchanan County, Missouri
  12. Butler County, Missouri
  13. Caldwell County, Missouri
  14. Callaway County, Missouri
  15. Camden County, Missouri
  16. Cape Girardeau County, Missouri
  17. Carroll County, Missouri
  18. Carter County, Missouri
  19. Cass County, Missouri
  20. Cedar County, Missouri
  21. Chariton County, Missouri
  22. Christian County, Missouri
  23. Clark County, Missouri
  24. Clay County, Missouri
  25. Clinton County, Missouri
  26. Cole County, Missouri
  27. Cooper County, Missouri
  28. Crawford County, Missouri
  29. Dade County, Missouri
  30. Dallas County, Missouri
  31. Daviess County, Missouri
  32. DeKalb County, Missouri
  33. Dent County, Missouri
  34. Douglas County, Missouri
  35. Dunklin County, Missouri
  36. Franklin County, Missouri
  37. Gasconade County, Missouri
  38. Gentry County, Missouri
  39. Greene County, Missouri
  40. Grundy County, Missouri
  41. Harrison County, Missouri
  42. Henry County, Missouri
  43. Hickory County, Missouri
  44. Holt County, Missouri
  45. Howard County, Missouri
  46. Howell County, Missouri
  47. Iron County, Missouri
  48. Jackson County, Missouri
  49. Jasper County, Missouri
  50. Jefferson County, Missouri
  51. Johnson County, Missouri
  52. Knox County, Missouri
  53. Laclede County, Missouri
  54. Lafayette County, Missouri
  55. Lawrence County, Missouri
  56. Lewis County, Missouri
  57. Lincoln County, Missouri
  58. Linn County, Missouri
  59. Livingston County, Missouri
  60. Macon County, Missouri
  61. Madison County, Missouri
  62. Maries County, Missouri
  63. Marion County, Missouri
  64. McDonald County, Missouri
  65. Mercer County, Missouri
  66. Miller County, Missouri
  67. Mississippi County, Missouri
  68. Moniteau County, Missouri
  69. Monroe County, Missouri
  70. Montgomery County, Missouri
  71. Morgan County, Missouri
  72. New Madrid County, Missouri
  73. Newton County, Missouri
  74. Nodaway County, Missouri
  75. Oregon County, Missouri
  76. Osage County, Missouri
  77. Ozark County, Missouri
  78. Pemiscot County, Missouri
  79. Perry County, Missouri
  80. Pettis County, Missouri
  81. Phelps County, Missouri
  82. Pike County, Missouri
  83. Platte County, Missouri
  84. Polk County, Missouri
  85. Pulaski County, Missouri
  86. Putnam County, Missouri
  87. Ralls County, Missouri
  88. Randolph County, Missouri
  89. Ray County, Missouri
  90. Reynolds County, Missouri
  91. Ripley County, Missouri
  92. Saint Charles County, Missouri
  93. Saint Clair County, Missouri
  94. Saint Francois County, Missouri
  95. Saint Louis County, Missouri
  96. Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri
  97. Saline County, Missouri
  98. Schuyler County, Missouri
  99. Scotland County, Missouri
  100. Scott County, Missouri
  101. Shannon County, Missouri
  102. Shelby County, Missouri
  103. Stoddard County, Missouri
  104. Stone County, Missouri
  105. Sullivan County, Missouri
  106. Taney County, Missouri
  107. Texas County, Missouri
  108. Vernon County, Missouri
  109. Warren County, Missouri
  110. Washington County, Missouri
  111. Wayne County, Missouri
  112. Webster County, Missouri
  113. Worth County, Missouri
  114. 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