Butler County covers nearly 700 square miles and is home to nearly 41,000 people (Census 2000 data). The cities and towns of Butler County include Fisk, Neelyville, Poplar Bluff and Qulin. While Poplar Bluff, the county seat, has a population of 16,651, the remaining towns each have less than 500 residents.

Poplar Bluff stands out as the region’s center of commerce and industry. This vibrant community continues to serve as the backbone of Butler County’s prosperous trade center. Among Butler County’s major employers are Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center, Briggs & Stratton Corporation, Gates Rubber and Rowe Furniture Corporation.

Butler County, MO residents also have the burgeoning business markets of Branson, MO, St. Louis, MO, Little Rock, A R and Memphis, TN within a reasonable driving distance. Regional transportation options include Poplar Bluff Municipal Airport, commercial rail service and several easily accessible highways. County residents have an average commute time of only 20 minutes.

The quality of life in Butler County is unparalleled in the region. Local children have seven top-notch public and several private schools from which to choose, while Three Rivers Community College provides adult residents with quality higher education. Residents can also earn degrees through the University of Missouri Extension Program. Residents have a wide array of living amenities at their disposal and enjoy the lowest property taxes of all 114 MO counties. The Butler County area also has excellent healthcare provided by several clinics and three hospitals.

Popular Bluff’s brick lined streets and inviting ambiance contributes to making it the area’s center of entertainment. The new Black River Coliseum is always buzzing with activity that ranges from concerts to trade shows, while celebrations such as the Black River Festival and the Butler County Fair bring residents and visitors together throughout the year. The Hargrove Bridge, one of several historic bridges in the area, hangs majestically over the lovely Black River. In addition to the Black River, the Little Black and St. Francis rivers, provide virtually limitless potential for outdoor recreation. The Mark Twain National Forest and Wappapello Lake are other fine sources of family-friendly fun.