Cities and Towns in Gaston County, North Carolina
Founded in 1846, Gaston County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Gaston County was formed from Lincoln County. The city of Gastonia is the county seat. With FIPS code of 71, Gaston County has a population of 230,856 and area of 364 square miles (943 km²).
List of all cities in Gaston County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Alexis, NC | 28006 | 704/980 |
| Belmont, NC | 28012 | 704/980 |
| Bessemer City, NC | 28016 | 704/980 |
| Boogertown, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| Catawba Heights, NC | 28012 | 704/980 |
| Cherryville, NC | 28021 | 704/980 |
| Cramerton, NC | 28032 | 704/980 |
| Crowders, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| Dallas, NC | 28034 | 704/980 |
| Flay, NC | 28021 | 704/980 |
| Gastonia, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| 28053 | 704/980 | |
| 28054 | 704/980 | |
| 28055 | 704/980 | |
| 28056 | 704/980 | |
| Groves, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| High Shoals, NC | 28077 | 704/980 |
| Lowell, NC | 28098 | 704/980 |
| Lowesville, NC | 28164 | 704/980 |
| Mc Adenville, NC | 28101 | 704/980 |
| Mount Holly, NC | 28120 | 704/980 |
| Pinkney, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| Ragan Village, NC | 28054 | 704/980 |
| Ranlo, NC | 28054 | 704/980 |
| Ridge, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| Smyre, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| South Gastonia, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
| Spencer Mountain, NC | 28054 | 704/980 |
| Stanley, NC | 28164 | 704/980 |
| Victory, NC | 28052 | 704/980 |
Major Cities and Towns in Gaston County, North Carolina
Gastonia
Overview
- Area: Approximately 51.99 square miles
- Population: Approximately 72,000 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Codes: 28052, 28054, 28056
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.2621° N, 81.1873° W
Location and History
Gastonia, the county seat of Gaston County, is situated in the southern Piedmont region of North Carolina, approximately 22 miles west of Charlotte. Established in the late 19th century, Gastonia’s growth was significantly influenced by the textile industry, becoming a prominent textile manufacturing hub in the early 20th century. The city’s development was further bolstered by the establishment of the Loray Mill, one of the largest textile mills in the South. Over time, Gastonia has diversified its economy, embracing sectors such as manufacturing, retail, and healthcare, while preserving its rich industrial heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gastonia is served by the Gaston County Schools system, with notable institutions including Ashbrook High School, Hunter Huss High School, and Gaston Early College High School. The city is home to several landmarks, such as the Schiele Museum of Natural History, offering exhibits on regional natural history and a planetarium. The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, located nearby, features expansive gardens and conservatories. Additionally, the historic Loray Mill has been revitalized into a mixed-use development, preserving its historical significance while providing residential and commercial spaces.
Belmont
Overview
- Area: Approximately 10.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 15,000 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28012
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.2429° N, 81.0376° W
Location and History
Belmont is located in the eastern part of Gaston County, bordered by the Catawba River to the east and south. Founded in the 1870s, the town was originally known as Garibaldi Station, later renamed Belmont, possibly in honor of August Belmont, a prominent New York banker. The town’s growth was closely tied to the textile industry, with the establishment of several mills in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Belmont Abbey, a Benedictine monastery and college founded in 1876, has been a significant cultural and educational influence in the area. Today, Belmont blends its historical charm with modern development, offering a vibrant downtown area and residential communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Belmont is home to Belmont Abbey College, a private liberal arts college with a rich history. The Gaston County Schools system serves the area, with South Point High School and Belmont Middle School being notable institutions. Landmarks include the historic Belmont Abbey Cathedral, a Gothic Revival structure listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden, located on the outskirts of Belmont, offers expansive gardens, fountains, and a conservatory, attracting visitors from across the region. The downtown area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural events, contributing to the town’s vibrant community life.
Mount Holly
Overview
- Area: Approximately 10.0 square miles
- Population: Approximately 16,000 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28120
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.2982° N, 81.0156° W
Location and History
Mount Holly is situated in the northeastern part of Gaston County, along the western bank of the Catawba River. The town’s origins date back to the early 19th century, with the establishment of the Mount Holly Cotton Mill in 1875 marking a significant point in its development. The mill was among the first in the region to utilize electric power, signaling the town’s early adoption of industrial advancements. Over the years, Mount Holly has evolved from a mill town into a suburban community, balancing residential growth with the preservation of its historical character.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Holly is served by the Gaston County Schools system, with East Gaston High School and Mount Holly Middle School being key educational institutions. A notable landmark is the Mount Holly Historic District, featuring a collection of buildings that reflect the town’s rich history and architectural heritage. The Catawba River provides opportunities for recreational activities such as boating and fishing, with the Tailrace Marina serving as a popular spot for water enthusiasts. The town also hosts annual events like the Mount Holly Arts and Music Festival, fostering a strong sense of community and cultural engagement.
Cherryville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 5.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,000 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28021
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.3785° N, 81.3781° W
Location and History
Cherryville is located in the western part of Gaston County, near the border with Cleveland County. The town was settled in the mid-18th century by German, Dutch, and Scots-Irish immigrants. Originally known as White Pine, it was renamed Cherryville in 1865, inspired by the cherry trees planted along the railroad tracks by a local resident. The arrival of the railroad spurred economic growth, with the establishment of textile mills and other industries. Cherryville has a rich cultural heritage, with traditions such as the New Year’s Shooters, a ceremonial firing of muskets to welcome the new year, reflecting its deep-rooted customs.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Cherryville High School and W.B. Beam Intermediate School are key educational institutions serving the community. The Cherryville Historical Museum offers insights into the town’s history, showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to its cultural and industrial past.