Cities and Towns in Columbus County, North Carolina

Founded in 1808, Columbus County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Columbus County was formed from Bladen County and Brunswick County. The city of Whiteville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 47, Columbus County has a population of 50,092 and area of 954 square miles (2,471 km²).

List of all cities in Columbus County, NC alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Acme, NC	28456	910
Bolton, NC	28423	910
Brunswick, NC	28424	910
Cerro Gordo, NC	28430	910
Chadbourn, NC	28431	910
Clarendon, NC	28432	910
Delco, NC	28436	910
Evergreen, NC	28438	910
Fair Bluff, NC	28439	910
Hallsboro, NC	28442	910
Lake Waccamaw, NC	28450	910
Nakina, NC	28455	910
Riegelwood, NC	28456	910
Tabor City, NC	28463	910
Whiteville, NC	28472	910

Major Cities and Towns in Columbus County, North Carolina

Whiteville

Overview

• Area: Approximately 5.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 5,400 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 28472
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.3382° N, 78.7036° W

Location and History

Whiteville, the county seat of Columbus County, is centrally located in southeastern North Carolina. Established in 1810 on land donated by James B. White, after whom the town is named, Whiteville has served as the administrative and economic hub of the county. The town’s development was significantly influenced by its strategic position at the crossroads of major highways, facilitating trade and travel. Over the years, Whiteville has maintained its charm, with a downtown area that reflects its rich history and community spirit.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Educational institutions in Whiteville include Whiteville High School, Central Middle School, and Edgewood Elementary School, all part of the Whiteville City Schools system. Notable landmarks encompass the Columbus County Courthouse, a historic building constructed in 1915, and the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences at Whiteville, offering educational exhibits and programs. The Vineland Station Railroad Depot, restored to its former glory, serves as a venue for community events and reflects the town’s railroad heritage.

Tabor City

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.6 square miles
• Population: Approximately 4,000 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 28463
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.1485° N, 78.8745° W

Location and History

Tabor City is situated in the southern part of Columbus County, near the South Carolina border. Incorporated in 1905, the town earned the nickname “Yam Capital of the World” due to its significant sweet potato production. Tabor City’s agricultural roots have played a central role in its economy and cultural identity. The town is also known for its commitment to civil rights, with the Tabor City Tribune receiving a Pulitzer Prize in 1953 for its courageous stand against the Ku Klux Klan.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Tabor City is home to South Columbus High School, Tabor City Middle School, and Tabor City Elementary School, all part of the Columbus County Schools system. Prominent landmarks include the Ritz Center, a restored theater hosting various cultural events, and the Tabor City Museum, which preserves the town’s rich history. The annual North Carolina Yam Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with parades, music, and local cuisine.

Chadbourn

Overview

• Area: Approximately 2.4 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,800 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 28431
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.3218° N, 78.8261° W

Location and History

Chadbourn is located in the western part of Columbus County. Established in the late 19th century, the town became known as the “Strawberry Capital of the World” due to its prolific strawberry production. The arrival of the railroad facilitated the transport of strawberries and other goods, contributing to Chadbourn’s growth and prosperity. The town’s history is celebrated annually during the North Carolina Strawberry Festival, one of the state’s oldest agricultural festivals.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Educational institutions in Chadbourn include West Columbus High School and Chadbourn Elementary School, both part of the Columbus County Schools system. Notable landmarks encompass the Chadbourn Depot Museum, preserving the town’s railroad heritage, and the Strawberry Festival Grounds, hosting various events throughout the year. The town’s parks and recreational facilities provide residents with opportunities for sports and community gatherings.

Lake Waccamaw

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 1,500 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 28450
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.3191° N, 78.5003° W

Location and History

Lake Waccamaw is a town located on the northern shore of Lake Waccamaw, one of the largest natural freshwater lakes in the state. The area has been inhabited for centuries, with the Waccamaw Siouan tribe being the original inhabitants. The town was incorporated in 1911 and has since been a popular destination for recreation and relaxation. The unique ecology of the lake, including several endemic species, has attracted naturalists and researchers over the years.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Lake Waccamaw is served by East Columbus High School and Hallsboro-Artesia Elementary School, both part of the Columbus County Schools system. Prominent landmarks include Lake Waccamaw State Park, offering trails, camping, and educational programs about the lake’s natural history. The Waccamaw Siouan Tribal Grounds, located nearby, provide cultural insights into the heritage of the Waccamaw Siouan people. The town’s waterfront areas offer boating, fishing, and picnicking opportunities for residents and visitors.

Fair Bluff

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 900 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 28439
• Latitude and Longitude: 34.3107° N, 79.0378° W

Location and History

Fair Bluff is located in the southwestern part of Columbus County, along the Lumber River. Incorporated in 1873, the town developed as a trading center due to its river access, facilitating the transport of goods.