Cities and Towns in Unicoi County, Tennessee
Founded in 1875, Unicoi County is one of 95 counties in the state of Tennessee. Historically, Unicoi County was formed from Washington and Carter County. The city of Erwin is the county seat. With FIPS code of 171, Unicoi County has a population of 17,698 and area of 186 square miles (482 km²).
List of all cities in Unicoi County, TN alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Erwin, TN | 37650 | 423 |
| Flag Pond, TN | 37657 | 423 |
| Unicoi, TN | 37692 | 423 |
Major Cities and Towns in Unicoi County, Tennessee
Erwin, Tennessee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 4.33 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 6,152
- Zip Code: 37650
- Latitude: 36.0785° N
- Longitude: 82.4060° W
City Location and History
Erwin is the county seat of Unicoi County, located in the northeastern part of Tennessee, near the border with North Carolina. The town is nestled in the beautiful Appalachian Mountains, with the Nolichucky River running through it. Erwin’s history dates back to the early 19th century when it was first settled as a part of the expansive Cherokee territory. Initially, the area was used for agriculture, particularly farming and livestock. However, the arrival of the railroad in the late 1800s marked a significant turning point for Erwin, as it became an important transportation hub. The town was officially incorporated in 1851 and quickly grew with the establishment of textile mills, which remained a staple industry throughout the 20th century. Over the years, Erwin developed a strong community identity, while its picturesque location in the Appalachian Mountains made it a center for outdoor recreation. The town also served as a key junction point for travelers heading through the Smoky Mountains and into North Carolina. Today, Erwin retains its historical roots while evolving into a small, thriving community known for its scenic beauty and access to outdoor activities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Erwin is served by the Unicoi County School District, which includes schools such as Erwin Elementary School, Unicoi County High School, and Unicoi Middle School. One of the town’s major landmarks is the Nolichucky River, which runs through Erwin and provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy nearby Rock Creek Park, which offers hiking trails, picnicking areas, and a beautiful natural setting. The Appalachian Trail passes through the region and is a major draw for hikers, as it offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Another significant landmark is the Erwin Depot, a historic railroad station that highlights the town’s importance as a transportation hub during the 19th and 20th centuries. Erwin is also known for its Unicoi County Courthouse, a historic building that reflects the town’s long history as the county seat. Erwin’s blend of natural beauty and rich history makes it a central point for visitors and residents alike.
Unicoi, Tennessee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 0.91 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 3,670
- Zip Code: 37692
- Latitude: 36.1182° N
- Longitude: 82.3153° W
City Location and History
Unicoi is a small town located in the central part of Unicoi County, Tennessee, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Its name is derived from the Cherokee word for “white,” likely referring to the white mist that often hangs over the area’s mountains. The town’s history is closely tied to its natural surroundings, particularly the rich forests and streams that once supported a thriving timber industry. Early settlers arrived in the area during the early 1800s, and Unicoi became an important agricultural center. In the 20th century, however, the town shifted away from agriculture to more service-oriented industries. Unicoi’s location along the U.S. Route 19E makes it an important transportation route, connecting nearby towns such as Erwin and Johnson City. While the town remains small, it has steadily grown due to its proximity to the larger metropolitan area of Johnson City. Unicoi continues to offer a peaceful rural lifestyle, with easy access to outdoor recreational activities, making it an appealing place for those seeking a quieter, slower pace of life.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Unicoi is served by the Unicoi County School District, which provides educational services through schools like Unicoi Elementary School and Unicoi County High School. The town’s proximity to Unicoi County Park is one of its main landmarks. The park is home to a variety of recreational facilities, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a serene lake that is ideal for fishing and canoeing. Unicoi’s Historic District also features several landmarks, including old homes and buildings that reflect the town’s early 20th-century charm. Nearby, visitors can explore the Cherokee National Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. Additionally, Unicoi is located near the famous Appalachian Trail, which runs through the region and offers some of the most breathtaking mountain views in the state. While small, Unicoi’s combination of natural beauty and outdoor opportunities makes it an attractive destination for residents and visitors looking to experience the Appalachian lifestyle.
Flag Pond, Tennessee
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude and Longitude
- Area: 1.39 square miles
- Population (2020 Census): 224
- Zip Code: 37657
- Latitude: 36.0302° N
- Longitude: 82.3814° W
City Location and History
Flag Pond is a rural community located in the southwestern part of Unicoi County, Tennessee. Situated in the Appalachian foothills, the town has a population of under 250 people, giving it a distinctly small-town feel. Flag Pond was originally settled by early European settlers in the early 1800s, and its name is believed to have been derived from a flagpole that once stood near the pond in the center of the town. The town has largely remained agricultural, with farming and timber providing the foundation for the local economy throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. Over the years, Flag Pond has maintained its rural charm, offering a quiet lifestyle and a close-knit community atmosphere. The area is known for its scenic beauty, with mountains surrounding the town and nearby waterways providing opportunities for outdoor recreation. While Flag Pond remains a quiet, rural area, it is located just a short drive from the larger towns of Erwin and Johnson City, allowing residents to enjoy the peace of country living with access to city amenities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Flag Pond falls under the Unicoi County School District, with local students attending nearby schools in Erwin or Unicoi. One of the town’s major attractions is the nearby Cherokee National Forest, which offers a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching. The Appalachian Trail, which passes through the surrounding mountains, is another significant landmark in the area, providing scenic vistas and hiking opportunities for visitors and outdoor enthusiasts. Flag Pond is also close to Nolichucky River, which flows nearby and is popular for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. For those interested in local history, the Erwin Depot and Unicoi County Historical Society in nearby Erwin offer insights into the region’s past, including its development during the railroad era. While Flag Pond itself remains a quiet and residential area, its proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities in the surrounding mountains makes it a peaceful haven for nature lovers.
