Cities and Towns in Jackson County, North Carolina

Founded in 1851, Jackson County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Jackson County was formed from Haywood County and Macon County. The city of Sylva is the county seat. With FIPS code of 99, Jackson County has a population of 43,410 and area of 494 square miles (1,279 km²).

List of all cities in Jackson County, NC alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Balsam, NC	28707	828
Cashiers, NC	28717	828
Cullowhee, NC	28723	828
Dillsboro, NC	28725	828
East Laport, NC	28723	828
Erastus, NC	28723	828
Glenville, NC	28736	828
Norton, NC	28723	828
Speedwell, NC	28723	828
Sylva, NC	28779	828
Tuckasegee, NC	28783	828
Webster, NC	28788	828
Whittier, NC	28789	828

Major Cities and Towns in Jackson County, North Carolina

Sylva

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 2,700 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28779
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.3732° N, 83.2254° W

Location and History

Sylva, the county seat of Jackson County, is nestled in the heart of the Great Smoky Mountains in western North Carolina. Established in the late 19th century, the town was named after William D. Sylva, a Danish handyman who was a friend of General E. R. Hampton, an early settler. Sylva’s growth was significantly influenced by the arrival of the railroad in the 1880s, which spurred economic development and population growth. In 1913, Sylva became the county seat, replacing Webster, due to its more central location and better transportation links. The town has preserved much of its historical charm, with a vibrant downtown area featuring a mix of historic buildings and modern establishments.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Sylva is home to several educational institutions, including Smoky Mountain High School and Southwestern Community College, providing comprehensive education to the local community. The town boasts several landmarks that reflect its rich heritage. The Jackson County Courthouse, built in 1914, is a prominent feature atop a hill overlooking Main Street and now houses the Jackson County Public Library. The historic downtown area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, reflecting the town’s vibrant community life. Additionally, the annual Greening Up the Mountains festival celebrates the arrival of spring with local arts, crafts, and music, contributing to Sylva’s appeal as a destination for cultural events.

Dillsboro

Overview

• Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 250 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28725
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.3726° N, 83.2532° W

Location and History

Dillsboro is a small town located just west of Sylva, along the Tuckasegee River. Founded in the 1880s by Thomas Dills, the town quickly became a hub for the railroad and commerce in the region. Its strategic location along the river and the railroad made it a key point for trade and transportation. Over time, Dillsboro developed into a charming town known for its arts and crafts, attracting visitors seeking a quaint mountain experience. The town has preserved much of its historical character, with many buildings dating back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Dillsboro is served by educational institutions in the surrounding areas, as it does not have its own schools. The town features several landmarks that highlight its heritage. The Dillsboro Depot, built in 1889, now serves as a visitor center and museum, showcasing the town’s railroad history. The historic downtown area offers a variety of shops, galleries, and restaurants, many housed in buildings that reflect the town’s rich history. Additionally, the annual Dillsboro Lights and Luminaries festival transforms the town into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors from across the region.

Webster

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 400 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28788
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.3487° N, 83.2201° W

Location and History

Webster is a small town located southeast of Sylva, near the Tuckasegee River. Established in 1851, it served as the original county seat of Jackson County until 1913, when the seat was moved to Sylva. The town was named after Daniel Webster, a prominent American statesman. Webster’s early development was closely tied to its role as the county seat, with the courthouse and other government buildings serving as central features. After the county seat moved, Webster retained its small-town charm and historical significance, with several buildings reflecting its 19th-century origins.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Webster is served by educational institutions in the surrounding areas, as it does not have its own schools. The town features several landmarks that reflect its heritage. The Webster Rock School, built in 1936, is a historic building that now serves as a community center. The town’s historic district includes several buildings that showcase architectural styles from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Additionally, the nearby Tuckasegee River offers opportunities for fishing and boating, contributing to Webster’s appeal as a peaceful rural community with a rich history.

Cullowhee

Overview

• Area: Approximately 3.3 square miles
• Population: Approximately 6,200 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28723
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.3137° N, 83.1765° W

Location and History

Cullowhee is an unincorporated community located south of Sylva, along the Tuckasegee River. The name “Cullowhee” is derived from the Cherokee word “Joolth-cullah-wee,” meaning “Valley of the Lilies.” The area has a rich Native American history, with the Cherokee people inhabiting the region for centuries. In 1889, the Cullowhee Academy was established, which later evolved into Western Carolina University (WCU). The presence of the university has been a significant factor in the community’s development, influencing its culture and economy. Cullowhee has grown alongside the university, offering a blend of educational opportunities and natural beauty.