North Carolina Counties. List Alphabetically (and by Population)
How many counties are there in North Carolina? As of 2024, there are a total of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Among them, Chowan County is the oldest one (established in 1668) while Avery County is the youngest (established in 1911). With population of 1,034,290, Mecklenburg County is the most populated. The biggest county by land area is Dare County (4,046 km²) and the smallest is Clay County (572 km²).
Largest Counties in North Carolina
1. Robeson County
County Seat: Lumberton
- Area: 951 square miles
- Population: 116,530 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 910
- Latitude: 34.6278° N
- Longitude: 79.0175° W
Location and History
Robeson County is located in the southern part of North Carolina, bordering South Carolina. Established in 1787, the county is named after Colonel Thomas Robeson, a Revolutionary War hero. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, particularly as the home of the Lumbee Tribe, the largest Native American tribe east of the Mississippi River. The county’s history is deeply intertwined with the Lumbee people, who have lived in the area for centuries. Historically, the economy was based on agriculture, particularly tobacco, but has diversified over time.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 95 runs through Robeson County, making it a significant transportation hub in southeastern North Carolina. U.S. Routes 74 and 301 also traverse the county, providing additional connectivity. Lumberton, the county seat, is home to the North Carolina Indian Cultural Center, which celebrates the heritage of the state’s Native American communities. The Lumber River, a designated National Wild and Scenic River, offers recreational opportunities such as kayaking, fishing, and birdwatching. Additionally, the historic Proctor Law Building in downtown Lumberton is a notable landmark, reflecting the county’s long legal history.
2. Wake County
County Seat: Raleigh
- Area: 857 square miles
- Population: 1,129,410 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 919, 984
- Latitude: 35.7796° N
- Longitude: 78.6382° W
Location and History
Wake County is located in the central part of North Carolina and is home to Raleigh, the state capital. The county was established in 1771 and named after Margaret Wake, the wife of colonial Governor William Tryon. Wake County has a rich history, from its early days as a rural agricultural area to its transformation into a major urban and technological hub. The county is part of the Research Triangle, a globally recognized region for research and development, particularly in the fields of biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and information technology.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 40 and Interstate 440 (the Raleigh Beltline) are major highways that provide access to Wake County’s numerous communities and business centers. U.S. Routes 1 and 64 also serve the area. Major landmarks include the North Carolina State Capitol, a historic building in downtown Raleigh, and the Research Triangle Park, one of the largest research parks in the world. The county is also home to several prestigious universities, including North Carolina State University. Pullen Park in Raleigh, one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, and the North Carolina Museum of Art are other significant cultural and recreational attractions.
3. Mecklenburg County
County Seat: Charlotte
- Area: 546 square miles
- Population: 1,115,482 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 704, 980
- Latitude: 35.2271° N
- Longitude: 80.8431° W
Location and History
Mecklenburg County is located in the southern part of North Carolina, with Charlotte as its county seat and the largest city. Established in 1762, the county was named after Queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, the wife of King George III of England. The county has a deep historical connection to the American Revolution, with the “Mecklenburg Declaration of Independence” allegedly being signed here in 1775, a year before the national declaration. Over the years, Mecklenburg County has grown into the financial hub of the Southeast, with Charlotte being home to major banking institutions.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 77 and Interstate 85 are the primary highways passing through Mecklenburg County, providing connectivity to both regional and national destinations. U.S. Route 74 also serves the area. Charlotte is known for its impressive skyline, highlighted by the Bank of America Corporate Center and the Duke Energy Center. The NASCAR Hall of Fame, located in downtown Charlotte, is a significant landmark celebrating the county’s rich motorsports history. Another major landmark is Freedom Park, offering recreational activities and community events. The historic Latta Plantation and Nature Preserve provides insights into the county’s past and offers outdoor adventures.
4. Brunswick County
County Seat: Bolivia
- Area: 1,050 square miles
- Population: 136,693 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 910
- Latitude: 34.0657° N
- Longitude: 78.2232° W
Location and History
Brunswick County is located in southeastern North Carolina, along the Atlantic coast. It was formed in 1764 from parts of New Hanover and Bladen counties and named after the Duchy of Brunswick-Lüneburg, a British royal family possession. The county has a rich maritime history, with early settlements focused on fishing, shipbuilding, and trade. The coastal location has also made it a target during various wars, including the Revolutionary War and the Civil War, with several forts and historical sites dotting the landscape.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Route 17 is the main highway that runs through Brunswick County, connecting the various coastal towns and communities. The county is famous for its pristine beaches, including those on Oak Island, Holden Beach, and Sunset Beach, which attract tourists year-round. The historic town of Southport, known for its charming waterfront and maritime history, is a popular destination. The Brunswick Town/Fort Anderson State Historic Site offers a glimpse into the county’s colonial and Civil War past. Additionally, the county’s proximity to Wilmington and Myrtle Beach makes it a desirable location for both residents and visitors.
5. New Hanover County
County Seat: Wilmington
- Area: 328 square miles
- Population: 225,702 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 910
- Latitude: 34.2257° N
- Longitude: 77.9447° W
Location and History
New Hanover County is located in southeastern North Carolina, with Wilmington as its county seat and largest city. The county was established in 1729 and named after the House of Hanover, the ruling dynasty of Great Britain at the time. Wilmington played a significant role during the American Civil War as a major port for the Confederacy, and its historic downtown features many preserved 18th and 19th-century buildings. The county has a rich history of shipbuilding, trade, and later, film production, with Wilmington often referred to as “Hollywood East.”
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 40 terminates in Wilmington, making it a key route for access to the county. U.S. Routes 17, 74, and 421 also serve the area. The Battleship North Carolina, moored in Wilmington, is one of the most popular landmarks in the county, offering tours and a museum. The county is also known for its beautiful beaches, including Wrightsville Beach, Carolina Beach, and Kure Beach, which are major tourist attractions. The Airlie Gardens, with its historic landscapes and seasonal displays, and the Cape Fear Museum, showcasing regional history, are other significant landmarks.
6. Guilford County
County Seat: Greensboro
- Area: 658 square miles
- Population: 541,299 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 336, 743
- Latitude: 36.0726° N
- Longitude: 79.7920° W
Location and History
Guilford County is located in the central part of North Carolina, with Greensboro as its county seat. The county was established in 1771 and named after Francis North, the Earl of Guilford. Guilford County has a rich history, particularly in the context of the American Revolution, with the Battle of Guilford Courthouse being a significant event that contributed to the eventual British surrender at Yorktown. Over time, the county developed into a major manufacturing and transportation hub, particularly during the textile boom of the 19th and early 20th centuries.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 40 and Interstate 85 intersect in Guilford County, making it a critical transportation hub in the region. U.S. Routes 29 and 220 also serve the area. The Guilford Courthouse National Military Park is a major historical landmark, commemorating the pivotal Revolutionary War battle. The Greensboro Science Center, which includes a museum, zoo, and aquarium, is a popular destination for families. The county is also home to the International Civil Rights Center & Museum, located in the former Woolworth’s store where the famous 1960 sit-in occurred, marking a key moment in the Civil Rights Movement.
7. Iredell County
County Seat: Statesville
- Area: 597 square miles
- Population: 186,693 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 704, 980
- Latitude: 35.7826° N
- Longitude: 80.8873° W
Location and History
Iredell County is located in the central part of North Carolina, just north of Charlotte. It was established in 1788 and named after James Iredell, an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court. The county has a rich agricultural history, particularly in the production of tobacco and cotton. Over time, Iredell County has developed into a major transportation corridor, with its proximity to Charlotte contributing to its growth as a residential and business hub.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 77 and Interstate 40 intersect in Iredell County, making it a crucial transportation link for both regional and national travel. U.S. Route 21 also passes through the county. One of the most notable landmarks is Lake Norman, the largest man-made body of fresh water in North Carolina, which offers a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking. The Historic Downtown Statesville area features preserved 19th-century architecture and is home to various events, such as the annual Carolina BalloonFest, one of the oldest hot air balloon festivals in the United States.
8. Union County
County Seat: Monroe
- Area: 640 square miles
- Population: 239,859 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 704, 980
- Latitude: 34.9854° N
- Longitude: 80.5493° W
Location and History
Union County is located in the south-central part of North Carolina, bordering South Carolina. It was formed in 1842 from parts of Mecklenburg and Anson counties, and its name reflects a political compromise between local Whigs and Democrats. Historically, the county was primarily agricultural, with cotton and tobacco being the main crops. Over the years, Union County has experienced rapid suburban growth due to its proximity to Charlotte, becoming one of the fastest-growing counties in the state.
Major Highways and Landmarks
U.S. Routes 74 and 601 are the primary highways running through Union County, facilitating access to Monroe and surrounding areas. The county is known for its picturesque rural landscapes, which have attracted both residents and tourists. The historic Monroe Courthouse, a notable example of classical revival architecture, is a key landmark in the county seat. The Museum of the Waxhaws, located in the village of Waxhaw, offers insights into the local history and culture, particularly the life of Andrew Jackson, who was born nearby. The Cane Creek Park, with its large lake and recreational facilities, is another significant attraction in the county.
9. Forsyth County
County Seat: Winston-Salem
- Area: 413 square miles
- Population: 382,590 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 336, 743
- Latitude: 36.0999° N
- Longitude: 80.2442° W
Location and History
Forsyth County is located in the north-central part of North Carolina, with Winston-Salem as its county seat and largest city. The county was formed in 1849 from part of Stokes County and was named after Colonel Benjamin Forsyth, a North Carolinian who fought in the War of 1812. Forsyth County has a rich history in tobacco manufacturing, with Winston-Salem becoming a major center for the industry thanks to the establishment of the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company. The county’s history also includes a strong Moravian influence, particularly in the town of Salem, which later merged with Winston.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 40 and U.S. Route 421 are the major highways running through Forsyth County, providing crucial links to other parts of the state and region. One of the most notable landmarks is Old Salem, a living history museum that preserves the Moravian settlement of Salem and offers visitors a glimpse into 18th and 19th-century life. The Reynolda House Museum of American Art, housed in the former home of tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds, is another major cultural attraction. The county also hosts the Wake Forest University, one of the top private universities in the country.
10. Johnston County
County Seat: Smithfield
- Area: 796 square miles
- Population: 215,999 (as of 2020 census)
- Area Codes: 919, 984
- Latitude: 35.5084° N
- Longitude: 78.3399° W
Location and History
Johnston County is located in the eastern part of North Carolina, near the Research Triangle. It was established in 1746 and named after Gabriel Johnston, the royal governor of North Carolina from 1734 to 1752. The county has a long history tied to agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, and later became an important transportation hub due to its location along major highways and railroads. Over the years, Johnston County has experienced significant growth, becoming one of the fastest-growing counties in the state, thanks to its proximity to Raleigh.
Major Highways and Landmarks
Interstate 95 and Interstate 40 intersect in Johnston County, making it a key transportation corridor in the region. U.S. Routes 70 and 301 also serve the area. The county is home to the Ava Gardner Museum in Smithfield, dedicated to the life and career of the famous Hollywood actress who was born nearby. The Bentonville Battlefield, the site of the largest Civil War battle in North Carolina, is another significant historical landmark. The county also features the Clemmons Educational State Forest, offering hiking trails and educational programs on the local environment.
List of All Counties in North Carolina Alphabetically
Below please see all North Carolina counties which are listed in alphabetical order.
- Alamance County, NC
- Alexander County, NC
- Alleghany County, NC
- Anson County, NC
- Ashe County, NC
- Avery County, NC
- Beaufort County, NC
- Bertie County, NC
- Bladen County, NC
- Brunswick County, NC
- Buncombe County, NC
- Burke County, NC
- Cabarrus County, NC
- Caldwell County, NC
- Camden County, NC
- Carteret County, NC
- Caswell County, NC
- Catawba County, NC
- Chatham County, NC
- Cherokee County, NC
- Chowan County, NC
- Clay County, NC
- Cleveland County, NC
- Columbus County, NC
- Craven County, NC
- Cumberland County, NC
- Currituck County, NC
- Dare County, NC
- Davidson County, NC
- Davie County, NC
- Duplin County, NC
- Durham County, NC
- Edgecombe County, NC
- Forsyth County, NC
- Franklin County, NC
- Gaston County, NC
- Gates County, NC
- Graham County, NC
- Granville County, NC
- Greene County, NC
- Guilford County, NC
- Halifax County, NC
- Harnett County, NC
- Haywood County, NC
- Henderson County, NC
- Hertford County, NC
- Hoke County, NC
- Hyde County, NC
- Iredell County, NC
- Jackson County, NC
- Johnston County, NC
- Jones County, NC
- Lee County, NC
- Lenoir County, NC
- Lincoln County, NC
- Macon County, NC
- Madison County, NC
- Martin County, NC
- McDowell County, NC
- Mecklenburg County, NC
- Mitchell County, NC
- Montgomery County, NC
- Moore County, NC
- Nash County, NC
- New Hanover County, NC
- Northampton County, NC
- Onslow County, NC
- Orange County, NC
- Pamlico County, NC
- Pasquotank County, NC
- Pender County, NC
- Perquimans County, NC
- Person County, NC
- Pitt County, NC
- Polk County, NC
- Randolph County, NC
- Richmond County, NC
- Robeson County, NC
- Rockingham County, NC
- Rowan County, NC
- Rutherford County, NC
- Sampson County, NC
- Scotland County, NC
- Stanly County, NC
- Stokes County, NC
- Surry County, NC
- Swain County, NC
- Transylvania County, NC
- Tyrrell County, NC
- Union County, NC
- Vance County, NC
- Wake County, NC
- Warren County, NC
- Washington County, NC
- Watauga County, NC
- Wayne County, NC
- Wilkes County, NC
- Wilson County, NC
- Yadkin County, NC
- Yancey County, NC
Map of North Carolina Counties
