Cities and Towns in Alamance County, North Carolina
Founded in 1849, Alamance County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Alamance County was formed from Orange County. The city of Graham is the county seat. With FIPS code of 1, Alamance County has a population of 173,877 and area of 435 square miles (1,127 km²).
List of all cities in Alamance County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alamance, NC | 27201 | 336 |
| Altamahaw, NC | 27202 | 336 |
| BURL, NC | 27215 | 336 |
| Burlington, NC | 27215 | 336 |
| 27216 | 336 | |
| 27217 | 336 | |
| Elon, NC | 27244 | 336 |
| Elon College, NC | 27244 | 336 |
| Glen Raven, NC | 27215 | 336 |
| Graham, NC | 27253 | 336 |
| Green Level, NC | 27217 | 336 |
| Haw River, NC | 27258 | 336 |
| Mebane, NC | 27302 | 919/984 |
| Ossipee, NC | 27244 | 336 |
| Rock Creek, NC | 27349 | 336 |
| Saxapahaw, NC | 27340 | 336 |
| Snow Camp, NC | 27349 | 336 |
| Stonycreek, NC | 27244 | 336 |
| Swepsonville, NC | 27359 | 336 |
Major Cities and Towns in Alamance County, North Carolina
Alamance County, located in North Carolina’s picturesque Piedmont region, is home to vibrant cities and towns that boast rich history, cultural landmarks, and thriving communities. Below is an in-depth look at the major municipalities.
Burlington
Overview
- Area: 31.82 square miles (82.41 km²)
- Population: 57,303 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 27215, 27216, 27217
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.0957° N, 79.4378° W
Location and History
Burlington, located in central Alamance County, is the largest city in the county and a pivotal economic hub. It was established in 1857 as “Company Shops,” serving as the headquarters for the North Carolina Railroad. Renamed Burlington in 1886, it transitioned from a railroad town to a textile manufacturing powerhouse during the early 20th century. Today, it is a city that combines modern amenities with its rich history. The city has evolved into a commercial center with strong ties to technology and healthcare industries.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Burlington hosts educational institutions like Walter M. Williams High School and Alamance Community College. Key landmarks include the historic Dentzel Carousel in City Park, the Paramount Theater, and the Burlington Arboretum, which offers a lush escape for nature enthusiasts. The Maynard Aquatic Center also provides recreational activities for the community.
Graham
Overview
- Area: 10.49 square miles (27.17 km²)
- Population: 17,157 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 27253
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.0685° N, 79.4000° W
Location and History
Graham, the county seat of Alamance County, is located just south of Burlington. Founded in 1849 and incorporated in 1851, the town was named after William A. Graham, a North Carolina governor and U.S. senator. Graham’s role in historical events like the Kirk-Holden War of the Reconstruction era adds a layer of historical intrigue. The Alamance County Courthouse, a centerpiece of downtown Graham, stands as a testament to the city’s historical significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Graham High School and Alamance Community College are prominent educational institutions in the city. The Graham Historic District showcases late 19th- and early 20th-century architecture, while Cedarock Park offers a combination of recreational facilities and preserved historic farm buildings, drawing visitors and locals alike.
Mebane
Overview
- Area: 11.17 square miles (28.94 km²)
- Population: 17,797 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 27302
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.0954° N, 79.2664° W
Location and History
Mebane, situated on the eastern edge of Alamance County, extends partly into Orange County. Originally established as “Mebanesville” in 1881, the name was shortened to Mebane in 1883 in honor of Brigadier General Alexander Mebane, a Revolutionary War officer. Mebane has experienced rapid population and economic growth in recent decades, attracting families and businesses with its small-town charm and proximity to larger urban centers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Eastern Alamance High School and South Mebane Elementary are key educational institutions. Mebane is known for its charming downtown area, which includes boutique shops and restaurants. The Tanger Outlets, a major shopping destination, draws visitors from across the region, while Lake Michael Park provides outdoor recreational opportunities.
Elon
Overview
- Area: 4.22 square miles (10.94 km²)
- Population: 11,336 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 27244
- Latitude and Longitude: 36.1024° N, 79.5114° W
Location and History
Elon, located northwest of Burlington, is synonymous with Elon University, which has been a defining feature of the town since its founding in 1881. Originally a railroad stop known as “Mill Point,” the town was incorporated in 1893 and later named Elon, derived from the Hebrew word for “oak.” The university’s growth has shaped the town’s economy and cultural atmosphere, transforming it into a vibrant community with a strong academic influence.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elon University is the heart of the town, offering diverse academic programs and serving as a cultural and economic driver. The Elon University Forest, a 56-acre nature preserve, provides a serene environment for educational and recreational activities. The town’s annual Dogwood Festival celebrates its community spirit with live entertainment, local crafts, and food vendors.
