Cities and Towns in Pitt County, North Carolina

Founded in 1760, Pitt County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Pitt County was formed from Beaufort County. The city of Greenville is the county seat. With FIPS code of 147, Pitt County has a population of 172,169 and area of 655 square miles (1,696 km²).

List of all cities in Pitt County, NC alphabetically

City/Town Postal Code Area Code
Ayden, NC 28513 252
Bellarthur, NC 27811 252
Bethel, NC 27812 252
East Carolina University, NC 27834 252
Falkland, NC 27827 252
Farmville, NC 27828 252
Fountain, NC 27829 252
Greenville, NC 27833 252
27834 252
27835 252
27836 252
27858 252
Grifton, NC 28530 252
Grimesland, NC 27837 252
Pactolus, NC 27834 252
Simpson, NC 27879 252
Stokes, NC 27884 252
Winterville, NC 28590 252

Major Cities and Towns in Pitt County, North Carolina

Greenville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 35.4 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 90,000 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Codes: 27834, 27858
  • Latitude and Longitude: 35.6127° N, 77.3664° W

Location and History

Greenville, the county seat of Pitt County, is situated in the eastern part of North Carolina along the Tar River. Established in 1771 as Martinsborough, it was named after Josiah Martin, the last royal governor of North Carolina. In 1786, the town was renamed Greenville in honor of General Nathanael Greene, a hero of the American Revolutionary War. Initially, Greenville thrived as a river port and market center for tobacco and cotton. The arrival of the railroad in the 19th century further spurred economic growth, transforming the city into a hub for commerce and education. Today, Greenville is recognized for its vibrant cultural scene and as a center for education and healthcare.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Greenville is home to East Carolina University (ECU), one of the largest universities in North Carolina, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The city also hosts Pitt Community College, providing vocational and technical education. Notable landmarks include the Greenville Museum of Art, which showcases regional and national artworks, and the East Carolina Village of Yesteryear, a living history museum preserving the area’s heritage. The annual PirateFest celebrates the city’s connection to ECU’s Pirates, featuring music, arts, and cultural events. Additionally, the Town Common along the Tar River offers recreational spaces and hosts community events, reflecting Greenville’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty and fostering community engagement.

Winterville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 4.9 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 10,000 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Code: 28590
  • Latitude and Longitude: 35.5293° N, 77.4016° W

Location and History

Winterville is located just south of Greenville in Pitt County. The town was incorporated in 1897, deriving its name from John T. Winter, a prominent local figure who contributed to its early development. Initially, Winterville served as a trading center for the surrounding agricultural areas, with tobacco being a significant crop. The establishment of the Winterville Cotton Oil Company in the early 20th century marked the town’s industrial growth. Over the years, Winterville has evolved into a suburban community, balancing residential growth with the preservation of its small-town charm.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Winterville is served by educational institutions such as South Central High School and A.G. Cox Middle School, providing comprehensive education to the community. The town features several landmarks, including the Winterville Historical and Arts Society Museum, which preserves artifacts and exhibits related to the town’s history. The annual Winterville Watermelon Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with music, crafts, and local produce. Additionally, the Winterville Recreation Park offers facilities for sports and community gatherings, fostering a sense of community among residents.

Ayden

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 2.5 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 5,000 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Code: 28513
  • Latitude and Longitude: 35.4721° N, 77.4166° W

Location and History

Ayden is situated in the southern part of Pitt County. The town was incorporated in 1891 and is believed to have been named after a figure in the Bible, reflecting the religious heritage of its early settlers. Ayden developed as an agricultural community, with tobacco and cotton being primary crops. The arrival of the railroad facilitated trade and contributed to the town’s growth. Over time, Ayden has maintained its rural character while embracing modern developments.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ayden is home to educational institutions such as Ayden-Grifton High School and Ayden Middle School, serving the local student population. The town boasts several landmarks, including the Ayden Historic District, which showcases well-preserved architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The annual Ayden Collard Festival celebrates the town’s agricultural heritage with music, crafts, and local cuisine. Additionally, the Ayden District Park provides facilities for sports and community events, enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Farmville

Overview

  • Area: Approximately 3.1 square miles
  • Population: Approximately 4,500 (2020 census)
  • ZIP Code: 27828
  • Latitude and Longitude: 35.5957° N, 77.5858° W

Location and History

Farmville is located in the western part of Pitt County. The town was incorporated in 1872 and, as its name suggests, has deep agricultural roots. Farmville served as a market center for the surrounding farming communities, with tobacco being a significant crop. The town’s strategic location along major transportation routes facilitated trade and contributed to its growth. Over the years, Farmville has preserved its historical charm while adapting to modern developments.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Farmville is served by educational institutions such as Farmville Central High School and Farmville Middle School, providing education to the local community. The town features several landmarks, including the Farmville Historic District, which includes a variety of architectural styles from different periods. The annual Farmville Dogwood Festival celebrates the town’s heritage with music, crafts, and family-friendly activities. Additionally, the May Museum and Park offers insights into the town’s history and provides recreational spaces for residents and visitors.