Cities and Towns in Johnston County, North Carolina

Founded in 1746, Johnston County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Johnston County was formed from Craven County. The city of Smithfield is the county seat. With FIPS code of 101, Johnston County has a population of 226,504 and area of 796 square miles (2,062 km²).

List of all cities in Johnston County, NC alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Archers Lodge, NC	27520	919/984
Bagley, NC	27542	919/984
Benson, NC	27504	919/984
Clayton, NC	27520	919/984
	27527	919/984
	27528	919/984
Four Oaks, NC	27524	919/984
Kenly, NC	27542	919/984
Micro, NC	27555	919/984
Pine Level, NC	27568	919/984
Princeton, NC	27569	919/984
Selma, NC	27576	919/984
Smithfield, NC	27577	919/984
Whitley Heights, NC	27520	919/984
Wilsons Mills, NC	27593	919/984

Major Cities and Towns in Johnston County, North Carolina

Smithfield

Overview

• Area: Approximately 14.68 square miles
• Population: Approximately 24,972 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 27577
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.5084° N, 78.3397° W

Location and History

Smithfield, the county seat of Johnston County, is centrally located in North Carolina, approximately 30 miles southeast of Raleigh. Established in 1777, the town was named after John Smith, an early settler and landowner. Its strategic position along the Neuse River facilitated trade and transportation, contributing to its growth as a commercial hub. During the Civil War, Smithfield served as a temporary capital for North Carolina when Union forces threatened Raleigh. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the town became a center for agriculture and manufacturing, bolstering its economic development. Today, Smithfield blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities, offering a vibrant community for residents and visitors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Smithfield is home to several educational institutions, including Smithfield-Selma High School and Johnston Community College, providing comprehensive education to the local community. The town boasts several landmarks that reflect its rich heritage. The Ava Gardner Museum celebrates the life and career of the Hollywood actress who was born nearby. The Johnston County Heritage Center preserves the history and culture of the area through exhibits and archives. Additionally, the Neuse Little Theatre offers a variety of performances, contributing to Smithfield’s appeal as a destination for arts and culture enthusiasts.

Clayton

Overview

• Area: Approximately 13.5 square miles
• Population: Approximately 46,478 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Codes: 27520, 27527, 27528
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.6507° N, 78.4564° W

Location and History

Clayton is located in the northwestern part of Johnston County, about 15 miles southeast of Raleigh. The town was incorporated in 1869 and was named after a local landowner, John Clayton. Its development was closely tied to the expansion of the North Carolina Railroad, which facilitated trade and transportation. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Clayton became a center for cotton and tobacco production, bolstering its economic growth. Over time, the town has evolved into a thriving suburb of Raleigh, experiencing significant residential and commercial development while maintaining its small-town charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Clayton is served by educational institutions such as Clayton High School and East Clayton Elementary School, providing quality education to the local community. The town features several landmarks that highlight its heritage. The Clayton Center, housed in a historic school building, serves as a performing arts venue and community center. The historic downtown area offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries, reflecting the town’s vibrant community life. Additionally, the annual Clayton Harvest Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural roots with parades, music, and local crafts, contributing to Clayton’s appeal as a destination for cultural events.

Selma

Overview

• Area: Approximately 5.2 square miles
• Population: Approximately 17,568 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 27576
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.5368° N, 78.2844° W

Location and History

Selma is situated in the northeastern part of Johnston County, at the intersection of Interstate 95 and U.S. Highway 70. The town was incorporated in 1873 and developed as a railroad town, serving as a key junction for the North Carolina Railroad. Its strategic location made it a hub for commerce and transportation, attracting businesses and settlers. In the early 20th century, Selma became known for its vibrant downtown area, featuring a variety of shops and services. Over time, the town has preserved its historical character while embracing modern development, offering a blend of history and contemporary amenities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Selma is home to educational institutions such as Selma Elementary School and Smithfield-Selma High School, serving the educational needs of the community. The town boasts several landmarks that reflect its rich heritage. The Selma Union Depot, built in 1924, now serves as a visitor center and museum, showcasing the town’s railroad history. The Rudy Theatre hosts live music and entertainment, contributing to Selma’s cultural scene. Additionally, the annual Selma Railroad Days Festival celebrates the town’s history with parades, crafts, and performances, attracting visitors from across the region.

Benson

Overview

• Area: Approximately 2.1 square miles
• Population: Approximately 16,613 (2024 estimate)
• ZIP Code: 27504
• Latitude and Longitude: 35.3821° N, 78.5483° W

Location and History

Benson is located in the southern part of Johnston County, near the intersection of Interstates 95 and 40. The town was incorporated in 1887 and was named after Alfred Monroe Benson, who donated land for the establishment of the town. Its development was closely tied to agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, which played a significant role in its economy. In the early 20th century, Benson became known for its annual Mule Days festival, celebrating the town’s agricultural heritage. Over time, the town has maintained its rural charm while experiencing growth and development, offering a welcoming community for residents and visitors.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Benson is served by educational institutions such as Benson Elementary School and South Johnston High School, providing quality education to the local community. The town features several landmarks that highlight its heritage.