Wharton County, Texas
Wharton County lies in the coastal plains of Southeast Texas, about an hour southwest of Houston. Agriculture is a major part of life here, with wide rice fields and open pastures where cattle roam.
The Colorado River runs through the county, helping nourish the rich farmland. Wharton, the county seat, has a charming downtown filled with historic buildings, while El Campo is the largest city in the county.
Oil and gas have also contributed to the local economy, but farming remains the heart of Wharton County. The people are friendly and down-to-earth, and the area is known for its tasty BBQ and Tex-Mex flavors. It’s classic Southeast Texas country.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Wharton County |
| County Seat | Wharton |
| Population | Approximately 41,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Wharton, El Campo, Lane City, Newgulf |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 59, U.S. Highway 90 |
| FIPS Code | 48-481 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,092 square miles (1,082 sq mi land, 10 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Austin County (North), Fort Bend County (Northeast), Brazoria County (East), Matagorda County (Southeast), Jackson County (Southwest), Colorado County (Northwest) |
| Time Zone | Central Time Zone (CST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 29°18’N, 96°06’W |
| Etymology | Named after William Harris Wharton and John Austin Wharton |
| Major Landmarks | Big Tree Park, El Campo Museum |
