Floyd County, Georgia

Floyd County, Georgia is a county located in the northwestern part of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 United States Census, the population was 98,498. The county seat is Rome, which is also the largest city in the county. Floyd County is part of the Rome, GA Metropolitan Statistical Area.

History

Floyd County was established on December 3, 1832, by an act of the Georgia General Assembly and was created from land that was part of Cherokee County at the time. The county is named after John Floyd, a United States Congressman and an American general in the Creek War. The area was originally inhabited by the Cherokee people until their forced removal in the 1830s.

Geography

According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 518 square miles, of which 510 square miles is land and 8.4 square miles (1.6%) is water. Floyd County is situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and features a variety of natural landscapes, including rivers, forests, and hills. The Oostanaula River and the Etowah River meet in Rome to form the Coosa River, which is a significant waterway in the county.

Adjacent counties

• Chattooga County (north)
• Gordon County (east)
• Bartow County (southeast)
• Polk County (south)
• Cherokee County, Alabama (west)

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, there were 98,498 people residing in the county. The racial makeup of the county was predominantly White, with significant African American, Hispanic or Latino, and Asian communities. The economy of Floyd County is diverse, with major sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and retail.

Government and politics

Floyd County operates under a commission-manager form of government, with a board of commissioners elected by the citizens. The county is known for its conservative political leanings, with a majority of voters supporting Republican candidates in national, state, and local elections.

Education

The Floyd County School District serves the educational needs of the county's children and young adults. The district includes several elementary, middle, and high schools. Higher education is represented by Berry College and Georgia Highlands College, both located in Rome.

Economy

The economy of Floyd County is supported by a mix of manufacturing, services, healthcare, and education. Major employers include the healthcare sector, with hospitals and medical centers providing a significant number of jobs. Manufacturing also plays a crucial role, with various companies operating in the county.

Culture and recreation

Floyd County offers a variety of cultural and recreational activities, including parks, museums, and historical sites. The Chieftains Museum and the Rome Area History Museum are notable cultural institutions. Outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating are popular among residents and visitors, thanks to the county's natural landscapes and waterways.

Transportation

Major highways such as the U.S. Route 27 and U.S. Route 411 run through Floyd County, providing easy access to neighboring counties and states. The county also has a small airport, Richard B. Russell Airport, which serves general aviation.