Cities and Towns in Wayne County, North Carolina
Founded in 1779, Wayne County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Wayne County was formed from Dobbs County. The city of Goldsboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 191, Wayne County has a population of 116,835 and area of 557 square miles (1,443 km²).
List of all cities in Wayne County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Dudley, NC | 28333 | 919/984 |
| Eureka, NC | 27830 | 919/984 |
| Fremont, NC | 27830 | 919/984 |
| Goldsboro, NC | 27530 | 919/984 |
| 27531 | 919/984 | |
| 27532 | 919/984 | |
| 27533 | 919/984 | |
| 27534 | 919/984 | |
| Mount Olive, NC | 28365 | 919/984 |
| Patetown, NC | 27530 | 919/984 |
| Pikeville, NC | 27863 | 919/984 |
| Seven Springs, NC | 28578 | 252 |
| Seymour Johnson A F B, NC | 27531 | 919/984 |
| Walnut Creek, NC | 27530 | 919/984 |
| Webtown, NC | 27530 | 919/984 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wayne County, North Carolina
Goldsboro
Overview
- Area: Approximately 29.5 square miles (76.4 km²)
- Population: 33,657 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 27530, 27531, 27532, 27533, 27534
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.3849° N, 77.9928° W
Location and History
Goldsboro, the county seat of Wayne County, is situated in the eastern part of North Carolina, approximately 55 miles southeast of Raleigh. Established in 1847, the city was named after Major Matthew T. Goldsborough, an assistant engineer for the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad. The arrival of the railroad significantly contributed to Goldsboro’s growth, transforming it into a vital transportation hub. During the Civil War, the city played a strategic role due to its railroad connections. In the 20th century, the establishment of Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in 1942 further boosted the local economy and population. Today, Goldsboro blends its rich history with modern development, serving as a center for commerce, education, and culture in the region.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Goldsboro is home to several educational institutions, including Wayne Community College, which offers a range of programs for higher education. The city is served by the Wayne County Public Schools system, with Goldsboro High School being a notable institution. Landmarks in Goldsboro include the historic Paramount Theatre, a restored 19th-century venue hosting various performances and events. The Wayne County Museum provides insights into the area’s history, while the Cliffs of the Neuse State Park, located nearby, offers hiking trails and scenic views along the Neuse River. Additionally, the annual North Carolina Pickle Festival, held in nearby Mount Olive, attracts visitors to the region, celebrating the local pickle industry.
Mount Olive
Overview
- Area: Approximately 2.7 square miles (7.0 km²)
- Population: 4,589 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28365
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.1960° N, 78.0661° W
Location and History
Mount Olive is located in the southern part of Wayne County, near the Duplin County line. Incorporated in 1870, the town’s name is believed to be derived from the biblical Mount of Olives. The arrival of the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad spurred its early growth, establishing Mount Olive as a trading center for agricultural products, particularly pickles and cucumbers. In 1926, the Mount Olive Pickle Company was founded, becoming a significant contributor to the local economy and earning the town recognition as the “Pickle Capital of the World.” Today, Mount Olive maintains its small-town charm while continuing to celebrate its agricultural heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Mount Olive is home to the University of Mount Olive, a private liberal arts institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs. The town is served by the Wayne County Public Schools system, with Carver Elementary School and Mount Olive Middle School serving local students. Notable landmarks include the Mount Olive Pickle Company, which offers tours showcasing its production process. The annual North Carolina Pickle Festival celebrates the town’s pickle industry with events, food, and entertainment, drawing visitors from across the state. Additionally, the Southern Bank Auditorium hosts various cultural and community events throughout the year.
Fremont
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.1 square miles (2.8 km²)
- Population: 1,255 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 27830
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.5407° N, 77.9753° W
Location and History
Fremont is situated in the northern part of Wayne County, approximately 12 miles north of Goldsboro. The town was originally known as Nahunta but was renamed Fremont in 1869 in honor of General John C. Frémont, an explorer and military officer. The establishment of the Atlantic Coast Line Railroad contributed to Fremont’s development as an agricultural and trading center. The town’s economy has historically been based on farming, with tobacco and cotton as primary crops. Fremont’s rich history is reflected in its preserved architecture and community traditions.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Fremont is served by the Wayne County Public Schools system, with Fremont STARS Elementary School providing education for younger students. The town’s historic district features several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. The Fremont Historical Museum offers exhibits on local history, including artifacts from the town’s early days. Additionally, the annual Daffodil Festival celebrates the arrival of spring with parades, crafts, and entertainment, fostering community spirit and attracting visitors to the area.
Pikeville
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.0 square mile (2.6 km²)
- Population: 678 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 27863
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.4971° N, 77.9814° W
Location and History
Pikeville is located in the northern part of Wayne County, approximately 10 miles north of Goldsboro. The town was incorporated in 1875 and named after the Pike family, early settlers in the area. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century facilitated Pikeville’s growth as an agricultural community, with tobacco and cotton as key crops. Over the years, Pikeville has maintained its rural character, with a close-knit community and a focus on preserving its heritage.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Pikeville is part of the Wayne County Public Schools system, with Northeast Elementary School serving local students. The town is home to several historic sites, including the Pikeville Historic District, which features buildings reflecting late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. The Charles B. Aycock Birthplace State Historic Site, located nearby, preserves the boyhood home of North Carolina’s 50th governor and offers insights into rural life in the 19th century. Additionally, the town hosts community events throughout the year, fostering a strong sense of community among residents.
Seven Springs
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.2 square miles (0.5 km²)
- Population: 110 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 28578
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.2243° N, 77.8503° W
Location and History
Seven Springs is a small town located in the southeastern part of Wayne County, along the banks of the Neuse River. Incorporated in 1881, the town was named for the seven mineral springs in the area, which were believed to have healing properties. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Seven Springs became a popular resort destination, attracting visitors seeking the therapeutic benefits of the springs. The town’s economy was also supported by agriculture and river trade. Although the resort era has passed, Seven Springs retains its historical charm and scenic beauty.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Seven Springs is served by the Wayne County Public Schools system, with students attending schools in nearby communities.
