Maries County
countyMaries County is located in south-central Missouri. As of 2024, the county's population was estimated to be 8,506. The county is characterized by its rural nature and small communities, offering a slower pace of life. Maries County was organized in 1855 and named for the Maries River and Little Maries River. Agriculture and small businesses form the backbone of Maries County's economy. Key sectors include manufacturing, construction, and healthcare. The county government and schools are also significant employers. Maries County offers outdoor recreational opportunities, with access to the Gasconade River and several conservation areas. Its history is rooted in early settlement and the development of agriculture and local industries.
Maries County, Missouri
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 29-125
- Country
- United States
- County
- Maries County
- Region
- South Central Missouri
- Total Area
- 530 sq mi
- Land Area
- 527 sq mi
- Water Area
- 2.9 sq mi
- Latitude
- 38.18
- Longitude
- -91.92
- Climate
- Mild uplands of Central Missouri
- Notable Features
- Maries River · Little Maries River · Gasconade River
- Neighboring Areas
- Osage County · Gasconade County · Phelps County · Pulaski County · Miller County
- Population (2020)
- 8,432
- Est. Population (2024)
- 8,506
- Median Age
- 45.4
- Median Income
- $61,359
- Poverty Rate
- 14.9%
- Family Households
- 68.3%
- Owner-Occupied
- 77.9%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- 92.0% White, 5.0% Two or More Races, 1.9% Hispanic
- School Districts
- Maries County R-I School District · Maries County R-II School District
- Colleges & Universities
- University of Missouri Extension Center (Vienna)
- Founded
- 1855
- Named After
- The Maries River and Little Maries River
- Historical Significance
- Maries County was named for the Maries River and Little Maries River, the word 'Maries' being derived from the French word marais, which means 'marsh, lake, or pond'.
- Key Events
- Organized March 2, 1855