Cities and Towns in Carter County, Tennessee

Founded in 1796, Carter County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Carter County was formed from Washington County. The city of Elizabethton is the county seat. With FIPS code of 19, Carter County has a population of 56,134 and area of 341 square miles (883 km²).

List of all cities in Carter County, TN alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Elizabethton, TN	37643	423
	37644	423
Hampton, TN	37658	423
Milligan, TN	37682	423
Milligan College, TN	37682	423
Roan Mountain, TN	37687	423
Watauga, TN	37694	423

Carter County, Tennessee, located in the northeastern part of the state, encompasses several cities and towns, each with its own unique history and landmarks. Below is an overview of the major cities and towns within the county.

Elizabethton

Overview

• Area: Approximately 9.9 square miles
• Population: 14,546 (2020 census)
• ZIP Codes: 37643, 37644
• Coordinates: 36.3484° N latitude, 82.2107° W longitude

Location and History

Elizabethton, the county seat of Carter County, is situated at the confluence of the Watauga and Doe Rivers. Established in 1799, the city was named in honor of Elizabeth MacLin Carter, the wife of General Landon Carter, after whom the county is named. Elizabethton holds significant historical importance as the site of the Watauga Association, formed in 1772, which is considered one of the first constitutional governments west of the Appalachian Mountains. The city also played a pivotal role during the American Revolutionary War, notably as the gathering point for the Overmountain Men in 1780 before their march to the Battle of Kings Mountain. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Elizabethton experienced industrial growth with the establishment of textile mills, contributing to its economic development.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Elizabethton is served by the Elizabethton City Schools system, which includes institutions such as Elizabethton High School. The city is home to several notable landmarks, including the historic Covered Bridge, constructed in 1882, which spans the Doe River and serves as a symbol of the city’s heritage. Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park commemorates the site of the Watauga Association and features a reconstruction of Fort Watauga, offering insights into the region’s colonial history. Additionally, the Carter Mansion, built in the late 18th century, stands as one of the oldest frame houses in Tennessee and reflects the early architectural style of the area.

Watauga

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.3 square miles
• Population: 403 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37694
• Coordinates: 36.3726° N latitude, 82.2915° W longitude

Location and History

Watauga is located in the northern part of Carter County, along the Watauga River. The town’s name is derived from the river, which in turn comes from a Cherokee word meaning “beautiful water.” Watauga’s history is closely linked to the early settlement of the region, with the Watauga Association forming nearby in the 18th century. The town developed as a small agricultural community and has maintained its rural character over the years. Its proximity to the river has historically provided opportunities for fishing and small-scale farming.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Watauga is served by the Carter County School District, with Hunter Elementary School being the nearest educational institution. The town’s primary landmark is the Watauga River, which offers opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and scenic views. The surrounding area features rolling hills and farmland, contributing to the town’s tranquil rural atmosphere. Additionally, the nearby Sycamore Shoals State Historic Park provides residents with access to historical reenactments and educational programs related to the region’s colonial past.

Roan Mountain

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.6 square miles
• Population: 1,360 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37687
• Coordinates: 36.1943° N latitude, 82.0701° W longitude

Location and History

Roan Mountain is an unincorporated community located in the southeastern part of Carter County, near the North Carolina border. The community is named after the nearby Roan Mountain, which stands at 6,285 feet and is renowned for its extensive rhododendron gardens. The area was originally inhabited by the Cherokee before European settlers arrived in the 18th century. Roan Mountain’s natural beauty attracted visitors, leading to the establishment of the Cloudland Hotel in the late 19th century, which catered to tourists seeking the cool mountain air. The community has since become a gateway for outdoor enthusiasts exploring the Appalachian Trail and the Cherokee National Forest.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Roan Mountain is served by the Carter County School District, with Cloudland High School and Cloudland Elementary School providing education to local students. The community is home to Roan Mountain State Park, which offers hiking trails, camping facilities, and access to the rhododendron gardens atop Roan Mountain. The park also features the historic Miller Farmstead, providing a glimpse into 19th-century mountain life. Additionally, the Appalachian Trail crosses through the area, attracting hikers from around the world to experience the scenic vistas and diverse flora of the region.

Hampton

Overview

• Area: Approximately 4.4 square miles
• Population: 2,100 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 37658
• Coordinates: 36.2893° N latitude, 82.1732° W longitude

Location and History

Hampton is situated in the central part of Carter County, along U.S. Route 321. The community developed in the 19th century as a stop along the East Tennessee and Western North Carolina Railroad, which facilitated the transport of timber and minerals from the surrounding mountains. Hampton’s location near the Doe River and its tributaries made it a suitable site for milling operations. Over time, the community grew as an agricultural and residential area, with its economy supported by local businesses and tourism related to nearby natural attractions.