Cities and Towns in Transylvania County, North Carolina
Founded in 1861, Transylvania County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Transylvania County was formed from Henderson County and Jackson County. The city of Brevard is the county seat. With FIPS code of 175, Transylvania County has a population of 33,165 and area of 381 square miles (987 km²).
List of all cities in Transylvania County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Balsam Grove, NC | 28708 | 828 |
| Brevard, NC | 28712 | 828 |
| Cedar Mountain, NC | 28718 | 828 |
| Lake Toxaway, NC | 28747 | 828 |
| Penrose, NC | 28766 | 828 |
| Pisgah Forest, NC | 28768 | 828 |
| Rosman, NC | 28772 | 828 |
| Sapphire, NC | 28774 | 828 |
Major Cities and Towns in Transylvania County, North Carolina
Brevard
Overview
- Area: Approximately 5.12 square miles (13.26 km²)
- Population: 7,651 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28712
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.2337° N, 82.7343° W
Location and History
Brevard, the county seat of Transylvania County, is nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina. Established in 1861, the city was named after Ephraim Brevard, a Revolutionary War figure. Brevard’s early economy was rooted in agriculture and timber, benefiting from its proximity to vast forested areas. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred growth, leading to the establishment of industries such as tanning and lumber mills. Over time, Brevard evolved into a cultural and educational hub, home to Brevard College and the renowned Brevard Music Center. Today, it is celebrated for its vibrant arts scene, outdoor recreational opportunities, and as a gateway to the Pisgah National Forest.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Brevard hosts several educational institutions, including Brevard College, a private liberal arts college known for its music and environmental studies programs. Brevard High School and Brevard Elementary School serve the local student population. The city is rich in landmarks, such as the historic Silvermont Mansion, a 33-room Colonial Revival home now serving as a community center. The Brevard Music Center, established in 1936, offers summer music festivals and educational programs, attracting artists and audiences nationwide. Additionally, Brevard is famed for its white squirrel population, celebrated annually during the White Squirrel Festival, reflecting the city’s unique charm and community spirit.
Rosman
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles (1.3 km²)
- Population: 723 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28772
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.1440° N, 82.8257° W
Location and History
Rosman is a small town located in the southwestern part of Transylvania County, near the headwaters of the French Broad River. Incorporated in 1901, the town was initially known as Toxaway Junction due to its proximity to the Lake Toxaway area. It was later renamed Rosman, a combination of the names of two local businessmen, Joseph Rosenthal and Morris Osmansky. The town’s early development was closely tied to the lumber industry, with several sawmills operating in the area. The establishment of the Transylvania Tanning Company in the early 20th century further contributed to its growth. Today, Rosman maintains its small-town charm, serving as a gateway to outdoor recreational activities in the surrounding forests and rivers.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Rosman is served by the Transylvania County Schools district, with Rosman High School and Rosman Middle School providing education to local students. The town is home to the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI), a former NASA facility now functioning as a research center and science camp, offering educational programs and public star-gazing events. The nearby Gorges State Park provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping, showcasing the region’s natural beauty. Additionally, the annual Rosman Heritage Day celebrates the town’s history and community spirit, featuring local crafts, music, and food.
Pisgah Forest
Overview
- Area: Approximately 5.0 square miles (12.9 km²)
- Population: 6,720 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28768
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.2765° N, 82.7087° W
Location and History
Pisgah Forest is an unincorporated community located northeast of Brevard, serving as the main entrance to the Pisgah National Forest. The area derives its name from Mount Pisgah, a prominent peak in the region. Historically, the community developed around the logging industry, with the establishment of the Pisgah National Forest in 1916 playing a significant role in its growth. The forest was one of the first national forests in the eastern United States, and the Cradle of Forestry, located within Pisgah Forest, commemorates the birthplace of forestry education in America. Today, Pisgah Forest is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to numerous trails, waterfalls, and recreational activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
While Pisgah Forest does not have its own schools, students in the area attend institutions within the Transylvania County Schools district, such as Brevard High School. The community is home to several notable landmarks, including the Cradle of Forestry in America, which features historic buildings, exhibits, and trails highlighting the history of forestry. The Pisgah Center for Wildlife Education offers educational programs and exhibits on local wildlife and habitats. Additionally, the nearby Looking Glass Falls and Sliding Rock are popular natural attractions, drawing visitors for their scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.
Lake Toxaway
Overview
- Area: Approximately 15.0 square miles (38.8 km²)
- Population: 2,269 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28747
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.1232° N, 82.9371° W
Location and History
Lake Toxaway is an unincorporated community centered around North Carolina’s largest private lake, also named Lake Toxaway. The area was developed in the early 20th century as a resort destination for affluent visitors, with the original lake created by damming the Toxaway River in 1903. The Toxaway Inn, a luxury hotel, attracted notable guests until the dam broke in 1916, draining the lake and leading to the area’s decline. In the 1960s, efforts to restore the lake were successful, and Lake Toxaway once again became a sought-after destination, known for its scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and upscale residential communities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Residents of Lake Toxaway are served by the Transylvania County Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby communities, such as Rosman High School. The area is home to several landmarks, including the Lake Toxaway Country Club, offering golf, tennis, and dining facilities. The nearby Gorges State Park provides extensive hiking trails, waterfalls, and camping sites, showcasing the region’s natural splendor. Additionally, the historic Toxaway Inn site remains a point of interest, with remnants of the original structure and interpretive markers detailing its storied past.
Cedar Mountain
Overview
- Area: Approximately 3.0 square miles (7.8 km²)
- Population: 562 (2024 estimate)
- ZIP Code: 28718
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.1565° N, 82.6265° W
Location and History
Cedar Mountain is an unincorporated community located southeast of Brevard, near the South Carolina border. The area is named after the abundance of cedar trees and its mountainous terrain. Historically, Cedar Mountain was a remote settlement, with residents relying on agriculture and timber for their livelihoods. The establishment of nearby DuPont State Recreational Forest has increased the area’s popularity, attracting visitors for its waterfalls, trails, and natural beauty.
