Cities and Towns in Burke County, North Carolina
Founded in 1777, Burke County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Burke County was formed from Rowan County. The city of Morganton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 23, Burke County has a population of 87,611 and area of 515 square miles (1,334 km²).
List of all cities in Burke County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Bridgewater, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Brindle Town, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Burkemont, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Calvin, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Connellys Springs, NC | 28612 | 828 |
| Drexel, NC | 28619 | 828 |
| Enola, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Glen Alpine, NC | 28628 | 828 |
| Hildebran, NC | 28637 | 828 |
| Icard, NC | 28666 | 828 |
| Jonas Ridge, NC | 28641 | 828 |
| Joy, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Linville Falls, NC | 28647 | 828 |
| Morganton, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| 28680 | 828 | |
| Oak Hill, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Petersburg, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Pleasant Grove, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Rutherford College, NC | 28671 | 828 |
| Rutherfrd Col, NC | 28671 | 828 |
| Sunnyside, NC | 28655 | 828 |
| Valdese, NC | 28690 | 828 |
Major Cities and Towns in Burke County, North Carolina
Morganton
Overview
- Area: Approximately 19.24 square miles (49.84 km²)
- Population: 17,474 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 28655, 28680
- Coordinates: 35.7451° N latitude, 81.6848° W longitude
Location and History
Morganton, the county seat of Burke County, is situated in the Catawba River valley in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 1777 and incorporated in 1784, it was named after Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan. The area has a rich history, with indigenous peoples inhabiting the region long before European settlers arrived. Notably, the site of Joara, a significant Native American settlement, is near present-day Morganton. Over the centuries, Morganton has evolved into a hub for commerce and culture in western North Carolina.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Morganton is home to several educational institutions, including Western Piedmont Community College and the North Carolina School for the Deaf. Prominent landmarks include the Historic Burke County Courthouse, a symbol of the county’s judicial heritage, and the Catawba Meadows Park, offering recreational facilities along the Catawba River. The city also hosts the annual Morganton Festival, celebrating local arts, crafts, and music.
Valdese
Overview
- Area: Approximately 7.87 square miles (20.39 km²)
- Population: 4,689 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28690
- Coordinates: 35.7426° N latitude, 81.5623° W longitude
Location and History
Valdese is located in eastern Burke County, bordered to the east by Rutherford College. Established in 1893 by Waldensian immigrants from Northern Italy, the town was incorporated in 1920. These settlers brought with them a rich cultural heritage, which continues to influence the town’s character. Valdese’s history is celebrated through various cultural events and institutions that honor its unique origins.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Educational facilities in Valdese include Valdese Elementary School and Heritage Middle School. Significant landmarks encompass the Waldensian Presbyterian Church, reflecting the town’s founding heritage, and the Old Rock School, a historic building now serving as a community center. The Trail of Faith, an outdoor museum, offers insights into the Waldensian settlers’ journey and settlement in the area.
Rutherford College
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.30 square miles (5.95 km²)
- Population: 1,226 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28671
- Coordinates: 35.7479° N latitude, 81.5351° W longitude
Location and History
Rutherford College is situated in eastern Burke County, bordered by Valdese to the west and Connelly Springs to the east. The town derives its name from the Rutherford College that operated there from the 1850s until the 1930s. The college’s presence significantly influenced the town’s development, fostering a community centered around education and learning. Incorporated in 1977, Rutherford College continues to honor its educational roots.
Major Schools and Landmarks
While the original Rutherford College institution no longer exists, the town’s educational legacy is preserved through local schools such as Rutherford College Elementary School. Landmarks include the historic Rutherford College campus site, now occupied by Valdese General Hospital, and various historical markers that commemorate the town’s rich educational history.
Hildebran
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.83 square miles (7.33 km²)
- Population: 1,679 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28637
- Coordinates: 35.7104° N latitude, 81.4198° W longitude
Location and History
Hildebran is located in eastern Burke County, with its southeastern border adjoining Catawba County. The town’s name is believed to honor Solomon and Jacob Hildebrand, early landowners in the area. Incorporated in 1899, Hildebran has a history rooted in agriculture and industry, contributing to the region’s economic development over the years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Educational institutions in Hildebran include Hildebran Elementary School, serving the local community. Notable landmarks encompass the Parkhurst Municipal Complex, which houses the town’s administrative offices and community facilities. The town also features several parks and recreational areas, providing residents with spaces for leisure and community events.
