Cole County was organized in 1820. It is bordered by Callaway County to the north, Osage County to the east, Miller County to the east, Moniteau County to the south, and the Missouri River to the west. Jefferson City is the county seat and the state capital.

The county has a total area of 845 square miles and a population of approximately 255,000. The county is part of the Columbia, MO Metropolitan Statistical Area.

The county is governed by a three-member board of commissioners, elected for four-year terms. In addition, the Board of Commissioners appoints an administrator to serve as executive officer of the county.

Cole County is served by two school districts: Jefferson City Public Schools (JCPS) and Helias Catholic High School. Cole County also has two public two-year colleges: Lincoln University and Jefferson College.

Cole County has an array of attractions, including the Missouri State Capitol, the Mark Twain National Forest, Fort Leonard Wood, Holt's Summit, and nearby cities such as Springfield and St. Louis. Other attractions include the Missouri State Museum, the Cole County Historical Museum, the Cole County Fair, and various outdoor recreation opportunities along the Missouri River.

For the most up-to-date and in-depth information, please check the public records links below.