Cities and Towns in Durham County, North Carolina
Founded in 1881, Durham County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Durham County was formed from Orange County and Wake County. The city of Durham is the county seat. With FIPS code of 63, Durham County has a population of 326,126 and area of 298 square miles (772 km²).
List of all cities in Durham County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bahama, NC | 27503 | 919/984 |
| Duke, NC | 27708 | 919/984 |
| Duke Medical Center, NC | 27710 | 919/984 |
| Duke University, NC | 27708 | 919/984 |
| Durham, NC | 27701 | 919/984 |
| 27702 | 919/984 | |
| 27703 | 919/984 | |
| 27704 | 919/984 | |
| 27705 | 919/984 | |
| 27706 | 919/984 | |
| 27707 | 919/984 | |
| 27708 | 919/984 | |
| 27709 | 919/984 | |
| 27710 | 919/984 | |
| 27711 | 919/984 | |
| 27712 | 919/984 | |
| 27713 | 919/984 | |
| 27715 | 919/984 | |
| 27717 | 919/984 | |
| 27722 | 919/984 | |
| East Durham, NC | 27701 | 919/984 |
| 27703 | 919/984 | |
| East P A, NC | 27711 | 919/984 |
| Eno Valley, NC | 27712 | 919/984 |
| North Durham, NC | 27712 | 919/984 |
| Research Triangle Park, NC | 27709 | 919/984 |
| 27711 | 919/984 | |
| Rougemont, NC | 27572 | 919/984 |
| Shannon Plaza, NC | 27707 | 919/984 |
Major Cities and Towns in Durham County, North Carolina
Durham
Overview
- Area: Approximately 112.6 square miles
- Population: Approximately 283,506 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 27701, 27703, 27704, 27705, 27707, 27709, 27712, 27713
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.9940° N, 78.8986° W
Location and History
Durham, the county seat of Durham County, is situated in the east-central part of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, along the Eno River. The city was incorporated in 1869, following the establishment of a railway station named after Dr. Bartlett Durham, who donated land for its construction. Durham’s growth accelerated with the rise of the tobacco industry, notably through the American Tobacco Company, and later expanded into textiles and education. The city is a cornerstone of the Research Triangle, alongside Raleigh and Chapel Hill, fostering a robust economy centered on research, technology, and higher education.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Durham is home to prestigious educational institutions, including Duke University and North Carolina Central University, both contributing significantly to the city’s cultural and academic landscape. Notable landmarks encompass the historic American Tobacco Campus, now a mixed-use development featuring offices, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The Durham Performing Arts Center hosts a variety of performances, enhancing the city’s vibrant arts scene. Additionally, the Museum of Life and Science offers interactive exhibits and outdoor exhibits, appealing to visitors of all ages. The city’s rich history is also reflected in the Hayti Heritage Center, celebrating Durham’s African American heritage and the historic Hayti community.
Gorman
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,100 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27704
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.0340° N, 78.8200° W
Location and History
Gorman is an unincorporated community located in the northeastern part of Durham County, near the intersection of U.S. Route 70 and Interstate 85. The area developed as a rural community with a history rooted in agriculture and small-scale industry. Over time, Gorman has maintained its rural character while experiencing gradual residential growth due to its proximity to the city of Durham.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Educational needs in Gorman are served by the Durham Public Schools system, with nearby schools including Merrick-Moore Elementary School and Neal Middle School. A notable landmark in the area is the Gorman Baptist Church, established in the early 20th century, serving as a center for community gatherings and worship. The community’s location provides residents with convenient access to the amenities and employment opportunities in the greater Durham area, while retaining a quieter, suburban atmosphere.
Bahama
Overview
- Area: Approximately 3.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,030 (2022 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27503
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.1940° N, 78.8880° W
Location and History
Bahama is an unincorporated community located in the northern part of Durham County. The name “Bahama” is derived from the first letters of three local families’ surnames: Ball, Harris, and Mangum. The area has a rich history, with roots in agriculture and milling, and has maintained its rural charm over the years. Bahama’s location offers residents a peaceful environment while being within a reasonable distance from the urban amenities of Durham.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Bahama is served by the Durham Public Schools system, with Mangum Elementary School located within the community. A significant landmark in the area is the historic Stagville Plantation, one of the largest plantations in North Carolina before the Civil War, now a state historic site offering tours and educational programs. The nearby Little River Regional Park provides opportunities for hiking, picnicking, and nature observation, contributing to the community’s appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.
Rougemont
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,000 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 27572
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.2210° N, 78.9190° W
Location and History
Rougemont is an unincorporated community located in the northernmost part of Durham County, extending into Person and Orange counties. The community’s name is of French origin, meaning “Red Mountain,” likely referring to the area’s red clay soil and rolling hills. Historically, Rougemont has been a rural community with a focus on agriculture and small-scale farming. In recent years, it has attracted residents seeking a rural lifestyle within commuting distance to larger urban centers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Educational services in Rougemont are provided by the Durham Public Schools system, with students attending schools in nearby communities. A notable landmark in the area is Lake Michie, a reservoir offering fishing, boating, and scenic views, serving as a recreational resource for residents. The community also features several historic churches and family farms, reflecting its agricultural heritage and close-knit community atmosphere.
