Jackson County Map, North Carolina

Written and Fact-checked by | Updated On: May 05, 2026 | 06:10 ET

Map of Jackson County - Jackson County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. Jackson County Map showing cities, highways, important places and water bodies. Get Where is Jackson County located in the map, major cities in Jackson county, population, areas, and places of interest.

Map of Jackson County, North Carolina

About Jackson County, North Carolina

Jackson County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It's county seat is Sylva. As per 2020 census, the population of Jackson County is 43410 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 494 sq mi (1,279 km2). Jackson County was established on 1851.

Jackson County Facts

ContinentNorth America
CountryUnited States
StateNorth Carolina
County SeatSylva
Largest City/TownCullowhee
Established1851
Total Area495 sq mi (1,282 sq km)
Land Area491 sq mi (1,272 sq km)
Water Area4 sq mi (10 sq km)
Population43,109 (Census 2020)
Population Density88 people per sq mi
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
Major HighwaysUS-23, US-74, US-441, NC-107
Major RiversTuckasegee River
Neighboring CountiesHaywood County, Macon County, Swain County, Transylvania County
Famous ForWestern Carolina University, Great Smoky Mountains, outdoor recreation
Top AttractionsWestern Carolina University, Blue Ridge Parkway nearby, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Tuckasegee River
Official WebsiteOfficial Website

About Jackson County, North Carolina

Jackson County is located in the western part of North Carolina, in the state of the United States, and was established in 1851. The county seat is Sylva, while Cullowhee is the largest community. The county lies in the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreation, and as the home of Western Carolina University.

Cities and Towns in Jackson County, North Carolina

City/TownPopulation (Census 2020)Latitude & Longitude
Sylva (county seat)2,57835.3737°N, 83.2257°W
Cullowhee6,20035.3100°N, 83.1800°W
Dillsboro23235.3730°N, 83.2524°W
Webster40035.3300°N, 83.2000°W
Cashiers (CDP)1,50035.1100°N, 83.1000°W
Tuckasegee (CDP)1,00035.2600°N, 83.1300°W

Golf Courses in Jackson County, North Carolina

Golf CourseLocationLatitude & Longitude
Sapphire National Golf ClubCashiers area35.1100°N, 83.0700°W
Burlingame Country ClubSapphire35.1200°N, 83.0700°W

Roads and Highways in Jackson County, North Carolina

Jackson County is connected by scenic mountain highways serving western North Carolina.

  • US-23 / US-74 – major routes linking the county to Asheville and Tennessee
  • US-441 – connects the county to Cherokee and the Great Smoky Mountains
  • NC-107 – runs north–south through the county connecting major communities

Neighboring Counties of Jackson County

  • Haywood County (north)
  • Transylvania County (east)
  • Macon County (south)
  • Swain County (west)

Top Attractions in Jackson County, North Carolina

The county is known for its natural beauty and recreational opportunities.

  • Western Carolina University – major educational institution in Cullowhee
  • Great Smoky Mountains National Park nearby – hiking, wildlife, and scenic views
  • Blue Ridge Parkway nearby – scenic drive with overlooks and trails
  • Tuckasegee River – fishing, kayaking, and outdoor recreation
  • Cashiers – mountain resort area with waterfalls and hiking trails
  • Downtown Sylva – charming shops, dining, and historic courthouse

Distance from Jackson County to Nearby Cities

  • Sylva to Asheville – 50 mi (80 km)
  • Sylva to Knoxville, TN – 90 mi (145 km)
  • Sylva to Greenville, SC – 100 mi (161 km)
  • Sylva to Charlotte – 140 mi (225 km)
  • Sylva to Atlanta, GA – 140 mi (225 km)

FAQs about Jackson County

Where is Jackson County located?

Jackson County is located in western North Carolina within the Blue Ridge Mountains.

What is the population of Jackson County?

The population of Jackson County is 43,109 according to the 2020 Census.

What is Jackson County known for?

Jackson County is known for Western Carolina University, mountain scenery, and outdoor recreation.

What are the major highways in Jackson County?

Major highways include US-23, US-74, US-441, and NC-107.

Are there golf courses in Jackson County?

Yes, Jackson County has golf courses including Sapphire National Golf Club and Burlingame Country Club.