Introduction
Missouri, a U.S state located in the Midwest, is divided into 114 counties and one independent city. The independent city, St. Louis, is considered on its own, separate from any county. Let's look closely at the geographical breakdown of Missouri's counties and some fascinating facts about them.
Geographical Distribution of Counties in Missouri
Missouri is characterized by varied geography. The state is topographically diverse and its county division reflects this beautifully.
Each of Missouri's 114 counties spread across the plains, lowlands, and highlands, each contributing uniquely to the state's overall geographic profile.
In the north of Missouri lies the Dissected Till Plains known for its fertile soil. This is home to counties like Adair, Andrew, and Atchison.
To the south of Missouri are the Ozark Mountains, characterized by highlands and valleys. Counties here include Barry, Barton, and Benton.
Top County Features in Missouri
Certain counties in Missouri stand out due to unique geographical features.
Boone County, home to Columbia, boasts a combination of plains, forests, and rolling hills.
Shannon County, on the other hand, is known for its hills and beautiful springs. It is the least densely populated county in Missouri.
Cole County, home to Jefferson City (the state capital), is flourishing with river bluffs and fertile plains.
Missouri's Population Distribution across Counties
St. Louis County is the most populous county in Missouri, housing almost one million residents. Jackson County comes close, with Kansas City as its major city.
On the contrary, Worth County is the least populous county in Missouri with a population of just over 2,000 residents.
FAQs
What is the largest county in Missouri?
Texas County is the largest county in Missouri, spreading over 1179 square miles.
Which is the smallest county in Missouri?
St. Louis city, although not technically a county, is considered the smallest county-level division in Missouri.
Which Missouri county is the richest?
Platte County, due to its proximity to Kansas City, carries the highest median income amongst Missouri counties.
What county is Jefferson City, MO in?
Jefferson City, which is the capital of Missouri, is located in Cole County.
