Cities and Towns in Wilson County, North Carolina
Founded in 1855, Wilson County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Wilson County was formed from Edgecombe County, Johnston County, Nash County, and Wayne County. The city of Wilson is the county seat. With FIPS code of 195, Wilson County has a population of 78,369 and area of 374 square miles (969 km²).
List of all cities in Wilson County, NC alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Black Creek, NC | 27813 | 252 |
| Elm City, NC | 27822 | 252 |
| Lucama, NC | 27851 | 252 |
| Saratoga, NC | 27873 | 252 |
| Sims, NC | 27880 | 252 |
| Stantonsburg, NC | 27883 | 252 |
| Wilson, NC | 27893 | 252 |
| 27894 | 919/984 | |
| 27895 | 252 | |
| 27896 | 252 |
Major Cities and Towns in Wilson County, North Carolina
Wilson
Overview
- Area: Approximately 29.5 square miles (76.4 km²)
- Population: 47,851 (2020 census)
- ZIP Codes: 27893, 27894, 27895, 27896
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.7213° N, 77.9155° W
Location and History
Wilson, the county seat of Wilson County, is situated in the eastern part of North Carolina. Established in 1849 and incorporated in 1855, the city was named after Colonel Louis D. Wilson, a state legislator and Mexican–American War hero. Initially, Wilson thrived as a tobacco market center, earning the nickname “The World’s Greatest Tobacco Market” in the early 20th century. Over time, the city’s economy diversified into manufacturing, education, and healthcare, contributing to its growth and development. Today, Wilson blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities, offering a vibrant community for residents and visitors alike.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Wilson is home to several educational institutions, including Barton College, a private liberal arts college founded in 1902. The Wilson County Schools district serves the area with numerous elementary, middle, and high schools. Notable landmarks include the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park, showcasing large kinetic sculptures that have become iconic to the city. The Imagination Station Science & History Museum offers interactive exhibits for all ages. Additionally, the historic downtown area features the Wilson Arts Center and the Edna Boykin Cultural Center, fostering a thriving arts scene within the community.
Elm City
Overview
- Area: Approximately 1.2 square miles (3.1 km²)
- Population: 1,298 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 27822
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.8071° N, 77.8625° W
Location and History
Elm City is located in the northern part of Wilson County. Originally known as Toisnot, the town was renamed Elm City in 1891 to reflect the abundance of elm trees in the area. Established in the late 19th century, Elm City developed as a railroad town, serving as a stop along the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad. This connection facilitated trade and contributed to the town’s growth. Over the years, Elm City has maintained its small-town charm, with a community centered around agriculture and local businesses.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Elm City is served by the Wilson County Schools district, with Elm City Elementary School providing education for younger students. The town’s historic district features several buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcasing architecture from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Elm City Railroad Depot, a restored historic site, reflects the town’s rich railroad heritage. Additionally, the annual Elm City Festival celebrates the community’s history and fosters local engagement.
Black Creek
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.5 square miles (1.3 km²)
- Population: 769 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 27813
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.6357° N, 77.9333° W
Location and History
Black Creek is a small town located in the southern part of Wilson County. Incorporated in 1870, the town was named after the nearby Black Creek, a tributary of the Contentnea Creek. Historically, Black Creek was an agricultural community, with farming being the primary occupation of its residents. The town’s development was closely tied to the surrounding rural landscape, and it has retained much of its historical character over the years.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Black Creek is part of the Wilson County Schools district, with students attending schools in nearby communities. The town features several historic homes and buildings that reflect its 19th-century origins. The Black Creek Rural Historic District encompasses a collection of structures that showcase the architectural styles and rural heritage of the area. The town’s annual events, such as community fairs and parades, highlight its close-knit community spirit and historical roots.
Lucama
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.8 square miles (2.1 km²)
- Population: 1,108 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 27851
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.6404° N, 78.0083° W
Location and History
Lucama is situated in the southwestern part of Wilson County. Incorporated in 1911, the town’s name is a portmanteau of the names of three local families: Lucas, Amerson, and Mayo. Lucama developed as a farming community, with tobacco and cotton being significant crops. The arrival of the railroad in the late 19th century spurred growth, providing a means for transporting goods to larger markets. Today, Lucama maintains its rural character, with agriculture continuing to play a role in the local economy.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Lucama Elementary School serves the town’s educational needs and is part of the Wilson County Schools district. A notable landmark near Lucama is the Vollis Simpson Whirligig Park, located in nearby Wilson, which features large kinetic sculptures created by local artist Vollis Simpson. The town’s proximity to this unique attraction adds to its cultural significance. Additionally, Lucama’s annual community events, such as harvest festivals, celebrate its agricultural heritage and foster a strong sense of community among residents.
Stantonsburg
Overview
- Area: Approximately 0.6 square miles (1.6 km²)
- Population: 784 (2020 census)
- ZIP Code: 27883
- Latitude and Longitude: 35.6035° N, 77.8194° W
Location and History
Stantonsburg is located in the southeastern part of Wilson County. The town was named after its founder, Richard Stanton, who established it in the early 19th century. Incorporated in 1817, Stantonsburg is one of the oldest towns in the county. Its early economy was based on agriculture, with tobacco being a primary crop. The town’s location along the Contentnea Creek provided a means for transporting goods, contributing to its development. Over the years, Stantonsburg has preserved its historical character, with several buildings reflecting its rich past.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Stantonsburg Elementary School serves the local community and is part of the Wilson County Schools district. The town features several historic sites, including the Stantonsburg Historic District, which encompasses buildings showcasing architectural styles from the 19th and early 20th centuries. The nearby Contentnea Creek offers opportunities for fishing and boating, adding to the town’s recreational appeal. Stantonsburg’s annual events, such as the Stantonsburg Christmas Parade, highlight its strong community spirit and historical heritage.
