Cities and Towns in Buncombe County, North Carolina
Founded in 1791, Buncombe County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Buncombe County was formed from Burke County and Rutherford County. The city of Asheville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 21, Buncombe County has a population of 271,534 and area of 660 square miles (1,709 km²).
List of all cities in Buncombe County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alexander, NC | 28701 | 828 |
| Arden, NC | 28704 | 828 |
| Asheville, NC | 28801 | 828 |
| 28802 | 828 | |
| 28803 | 828 | |
| 28804 | 828 | |
| 28805 | 828 | |
| 28806 | 828 | |
| 28810 | 828 | |
| 28813 | 828 | |
| 28814 | 828 | |
| 28815 | 828 | |
| 28816 | 828 | |
| Barnardsville, NC | 28709 | 828 |
| Biltmor, NC | 28813 | 828 |
| Biltmore Forest, NC | 28803 | 828 |
| Biltmore Lake, NC | 28715 | 828 |
| Black Mountain, NC | 28711 | 828 |
| Candler, NC | 28715 | 828 |
| Enka, NC | 28728 | 828 |
| Enka Village, NC | 28728 | 828 |
| Fairview, NC | 28730 | 828 |
| Grace Station, NC | 28814 | 828 |
| Leicester, NC | 28748 | 828 |
| Montreat, NC | 28757 | 828 |
| Oak Park, NC | 28704 | 828 |
| Oteen Station, NC | 28815 | 828 |
| Ridgecrest, NC | 28770 | 828 |
| Royal Pines, NC | 28704 | 828 |
| Skyland, NC | 28776 | 828 |
| Swannanoa, NC | 28778 | 828 |
| Weaverville, NC | 28787 | 828 |
| West Asheville, NC | 28816 | 828 |
| West Haven, NC | 28704 | 828 |
| Woodfin, NC | 28804 | 828 |
Major Cities and Towns in Buncombe County, North Carolina
Buncombe County, located in the western region of North Carolina, encompasses several cities and towns, each with its own unique history, educational institutions, and landmarks. Below is an overview of the major municipalities within the county.
Asheville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 45.3 square miles (117.3 km²)
- Population: 94,589 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Codes: 28801, 28803, 28804, 28805, 28806
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.5951° N, 82.5515° W
Location and History
Asheville, the county seat of Buncombe County, is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains at the confluence of the French Broad and Swannanoa Rivers. Established in 1797 and named after North Carolina Governor Samuel Ashe, the city has evolved from a modest frontier settlement into a vibrant urban center. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred economic growth, attracting industries and tourism. Asheville’s rich history includes its role as a retreat for notable figures and its resilience during the Great Depression, exemplified by the construction of the Blue Ridge Parkway. Today, Asheville is renowned for its eclectic arts scene, historic architecture, and as a gateway to the Appalachian Mountains.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Asheville is home to several educational institutions, including the University of North Carolina at Asheville, a public liberal arts university, and Asheville High School, known for its historic campus. Notable landmarks include the Biltmore Estate, the largest privately-owned house in the U.S., and the Basilica of Saint Lawrence, featuring unique architectural design. The River Arts District showcases a vibrant community of artists and studios. Additionally, the annual Bele Chere Festival, though discontinued in 2013, was once the largest free festival in the Southeast, reflecting the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Weaverville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 3.8 square miles (9.8 km²)
- Population: 4,000 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 28787
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.6971° N, 82.5607° W
Location and History
Weaverville is located approximately 9 miles north of Asheville, offering a small-town atmosphere with proximity to urban amenities. Chartered in 1875 and named after Michael Montraville Weaver, who donated land for the town, Weaverville sits along the Dry Ridge, a name given by Indigenous peoples for its relatively arid conditions. The Treaty of Holston in 1786 opened the area for settlement, attracting families such as the Weavers, Alexanders, Gudgers, and Pattons. Weaverville College, established in 1873, played a significant role in the town’s development before merging with other institutions to form Brevard College. Today, Weaverville maintains its historic charm, with a vibrant downtown and a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Weaverville is served by North Buncombe High School and Weaverville Elementary School, providing education to the town’s youth. Notable landmarks include the Vance Birthplace, a state historic site preserving the birthplace of North Carolina Governor Zebulon B. Vance. The town’s Main Street features a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries housed in preserved historic buildings. The annual Weaverville Art Safari, a self-guided studio tour, showcases the work of local artists and reflects the town’s rich cultural heritage.
Black Mountain
Overview
- Area: Approximately 6.7 square miles (17.4 km²)
- Population: 8,426 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 28711
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.6179° N, 82.3212° W
Location and History
Black Mountain is situated 15 miles east of Asheville, nestled in the Swannanoa Valley. Incorporated in 1893, the town derives its name from the Black Mountain range, part of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century transformed Black Mountain into a popular resort destination, attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the mountain air. The town’s history is intertwined with the arts, notably through the presence of Black Mountain College, an experimental institution that operated from 1933 to 1957 and attracted influential artists and thinkers. Today, Black Mountain is known for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and as a gateway to the Blue Ridge Parkway.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Black Mountain is home to Black Mountain Primary School and Charles D. Owen High School, serving the educational needs of the community. Notable landmarks include the Swannanoa Valley Museum, which offers exhibits on local history and culture. Lake Tomahawk Park provides recreational facilities and hosts community events. The annual Sourwood Festival celebrates local culture with music, food, and crafts, drawing visitors from across the region. Additionally, the nearby Montreat Conference Center, associated with the Presbyterian Church, offers spiritual retreats and educational programs.
Biltmore Forest
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.9 square miles (7.5 km²)
- Population: 1,343 (2020 Census)
- ZIP Code: 28803
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.5415° N, 82.5421° W
Location and History
Biltmore Forest is an affluent town located immediately south of Asheville. Incorporated in 1923, the town was developed on land originally part of the Biltmore Estate, the expansive property of George Washington Vanderbilt II. Designed as a planned residential community, Biltmore Forest features winding roads, large lots, and lush landscapes, reflecting the influence of Frederick Law Olm.