Cities and Towns in Haywood County, North Carolina
Founded in 1808, Haywood County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Haywood County was formed from Buncombe County. The city of Waynesville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 87, Haywood County has a population of 62,476 and area of 555 square miles (1,437 km²).
List of all cities in Haywood County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Assembly, NC | 28745 | 828 |
| Canton, NC | 28716 | 828 |
| Clyde, NC | 28721 | 828 |
| Hazelwood, NC | 28738 | 828 |
| 28786 | 828 | |
| Lake Junaluska, NC | 28745 | 828 |
| Maggie Valley, NC | 28751 | 828 |
| Waynesville, NC | 28738 | 828 |
| 28785 | 828 | |
| 28786 | 828 |
Major Cities and Towns in Haywood County, North Carolina
Waynesville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 8.9 square miles
- Population: Approximately 10,000 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Codes: 28785, 28786
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.4887° N, 82.9887° W
Location and History
Waynesville, the largest town and county seat of Haywood County, is nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Founded in 1810 by Colonel Robert Love, a Revolutionary War soldier, the town was named in honor of General “Mad” Anthony Wayne. Waynesville’s strategic location along the Buncombe Turnpike facilitated its growth as a center for trade and travel in the 19th century. The arrival of the railroad in 1884 further spurred economic development, establishing Waynesville as a hub for agriculture, timber, and tourism. Today, the town seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities, offering a vibrant community atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Waynesville is served by the Haywood County Schools system, with notable institutions such as Tuscola High School and Waynesville Middle School. The town boasts several landmarks listed on the National Register of Historic Places, including the Waynesville Main Street Historic District, which features a collection of well-preserved buildings showcasing architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Museum of Haywood County History, located in the historic Shook-Smathers House, offers insights into the region’s past. Additionally, the nearby Blue Ridge Parkway and Great Smoky Mountains National Park provide residents and visitors with ample opportunities for outdoor recreation and scenic beauty.
Canton
Overview
- Area: Approximately 3.8 square miles
- Population: Approximately 4,200 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28716
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.5326° N, 82.8371° W
Location and History
Canton is situated along the Pigeon River in the eastern part of Haywood County. Established in 1889, the town was originally known as “Buford” but was renamed “Canton” in 1893 after Canton, Ohio, reflecting the influence of northern industrialists. The town’s growth was significantly influenced by the establishment of the Champion Fibre Company in 1906, which became one of the largest paper mills in the South. This industrial foundation earned Canton the nickname “Papertown.” Despite challenges over the years, including natural disasters and economic shifts, Canton has maintained its industrial heritage while fostering a strong sense of community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Canton is part of the Haywood County Schools system, with Pisgah High School and Canton Middle School serving the community. A notable landmark is the Canton Main Street Historic District, featuring early 20th-century commercial architecture that reflects the town’s industrial past. The Colonial Theatre, a restored historic venue, hosts various cultural events and performances. The annual Labor Day Festival, one of the oldest in the South, celebrates Canton’s rich history and community spirit with parades, music, and local crafts.
Clyde
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.87 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,368 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28721
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.5337° N, 82.9115° W
Location and History
Clyde is located in central Haywood County, along the banks of the Pigeon River. Founded in 1890, the town developed as a small agricultural community. In 1900, a tragic event occurred when George Ratliffe, an African-American man, was lynched in Clyde after being accused of a crime. This event is a somber part of the town’s history. Over the years, Clyde has faced challenges from natural disasters, including flooding from hurricanes, but has shown resilience in rebuilding and maintaining its close-knit community atmosphere.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Clyde is home to Haywood Community College, the county’s only institution of higher education, offering a range of programs and contributing to the local workforce. The town also has Haywood Early College High School, located on the college’s campus, providing advanced educational opportunities. A significant landmark is the Shook-Smathers House, believed to be the oldest standing frame-built house in Western North Carolina, now serving as the Museum of Haywood County History. The nearby Haywood Community College Arboretum offers a serene natural setting for education and recreation.
Maggie Valley
Overview
- Area: Approximately 3.2 square miles
- Population: Approximately 1,150 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28751
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.5165° N, 83.0946° W
Location and History
Maggie Valley is nestled in a picturesque valley in western Haywood County, surrounded by the Great Smoky Mountains. The town was named after Maggie Mae Setzer, the daughter of a local settler, and developed as a mountain retreat in the early 20th century. Its scenic beauty and cool mountain air attracted visitors seeking respite from the heat, leading to the establishment of numerous hotels, shops, and attractions. Tourism became the cornerstone of Maggie Valley’s economy, a trend that continues today as the town offers a blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Maggie Valley is served by the Haywood County Schools system, with Jonathan Valley Elementary School located nearby. A prominent landmark is the Wheels Through Time Museum, housing a vast collection of rare American motorcycles and automobiles, attracting enthusiasts from around the world.
