Armagh City and District Council area covers approximately 260 Sq Miles and has a resident population of approximately 54,000. The District comprises of the City of Armagh and the local towns of Keady, Markethill, Tandragee and Richhill in addition to 13 villages and 22 hamlets.

Armagh City and District is famed in legend and lore as the seat of the Kings of Ulster and the site chosen by Saint Patrick to establish his church. The Archbishops of both the Roman Catholic and Church of Ireland reside in the City. Armagh has had a long reputation as an administrative and educational centre.

Armagh’s architectural rehabilitation during the 17th, 18th and 19th Centuries has conferred upon the City an almost unique character with a Georgian area of heritage importance and a range of international tourist attractions. The rural hinterland incorporates forest and conservation villages. Acres of orchards produce apple blossom attracting many visitors and this industry combines to fulfil the District’s reputation as the Orchard of Ireland.

While Armagh City and District has a rich cultural heritage, a vibrant arts infrastructure and a strong network of community groups, it continues to suffer from high levels of polarisation and a low sense of community pride and ownership. It has a low level of unemployment compared to the Northern Ireland average but the average weekly earnings is the 6th lowest of all Council areas in Northern Ireland.

Although Armagh has always been referred to as a city, City Status was officially conferred by the Queen in 1995. Armagh had a long reputation as an administrative centre and currently located in the City is the headquarters of the Southern Education and Library Board and the Southern Health Board. Armagh District Council was established in 1973 with the re-organisation of Local Government. The area covers Armagh City and a number of district towns and villages. There is an attractive rural hinterland which is primarily an agricultural community.

Armagh City and District Council continues to be the "Irresistible Focus" for all activity within the Public Sector - acting directly, representing interests, facilitating and advocating the needs and views of the City and District.