Rutherford County Map, North Carolina

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

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

Map of Rutherford County, North Carolina

About Rutherford County, North Carolina

Rutherford County is a county located in the U.S. state of North Carolina. It's county seat is Rutherfordton. As per 2020 census, the population of Rutherford County is 64586 people and population density is square miles. According to the United States Census Bureau, the county has a total area of 566 sq mi (1,466 km2). Rutherford County was established on 1779.

Rutherford County Facts

ContinentNorth America
CountryUnited States
StateNorth Carolina
County SeatRutherfordton
Largest City/TownForest City
Established1779
Total Area566 sq mi (1,466 sq km)
Land Area564 sq mi (1,461 sq km)
Water Area2 sq mi (5 sq km)
Population64,444 (Census 2020)
Population Density114 people per sq mi
Time ZoneEastern Time Zone (ET)
Major HighwaysUS-74, US-221, NC-108, NC-226
Major RiversBroad River, Green River
Neighboring CountiesMcDowell County, Burke County, Cleveland County, Polk County, Henderson County
Famous ForChimney Rock, Lake Lure, Blue Ridge foothills
Top AttractionsChimney Rock State Park, Lake Lure, Broad River Greenway, Rutherfordton Historic District
Official WebsiteOfficial Website

About Rutherford County, North Carolina

Rutherford County is located in the southwestern part of North Carolina, in the state of the United States, and was established in 1779. The county seat is Rutherfordton, while Forest City is the largest town. The county lies in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains and is known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreation, and popular destinations such as Chimney Rock and Lake Lure.

Cities and Towns in Rutherford County, North Carolina

City/TownPopulation (Census 2020)Latitude & Longitude
Forest City7,24735.3340°N, 81.8651°W
Rutherfordton (county seat)4,19135.3700°N, 81.9600°W
Spindale4,32135.3600°N, 81.9300°W
Lake Lure1,36535.4400°N, 82.1800°W
Chimney Rock Village15035.4300°N, 82.2500°W
Bostic30035.3500°N, 81.8300°W

Golf Courses in Rutherford County, North Carolina

Golf CourseLocationLatitude & Longitude
Cleghorn Golf & Sports ClubRutherfordton35.3700°N, 81.9600°W
Meadowbrook Golf ClubForest City35.3300°N, 81.8600°W

Roads and Highways in Rutherford County, North Carolina

Rutherford County is connected by highways serving western North Carolina.

  • US-74 – major east–west route across the county
  • US-221 – connects the county to Marion and South Carolina
  • NC-108 – runs through Rutherfordton and Columbus
  • NC-226 – provides regional access to mountain areas

Neighboring Counties of Rutherford County

  • McDowell County (north)
  • Burke County (northwest)
  • Cleveland County (east)
  • Polk County (south)
  • Henderson County (west)

Top Attractions in Rutherford County, North Carolina

The county offers scenic mountain views, outdoor recreation, and historic sites.

  • Chimney Rock State Park – iconic rock formation and hiking trails
  • Lake Lure – boating, swimming, and scenic beauty
  • Broad River Greenway – trails, nature areas, and outdoor recreation
  • Rutherfordton Historic District – historic downtown area
  • Green River – kayaking and fishing
  • Tryon International Equestrian Center (nearby) – equestrian events and activities

Distance from Rutherford County to Nearby Cities

  • Rutherfordton to Asheville – 45 mi (72 km)
  • Rutherfordton to Charlotte – 75 mi (121 km)
  • Rutherfordton to Spartanburg, SC – 50 mi (80 km)
  • Rutherfordton to Greenville, SC – 65 mi (105 km)
  • Rutherfordton to Hickory – 50 mi (80 km)

FAQs about Rutherford County

Where is Rutherford County located?

Rutherford County is located in southwestern North Carolina in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

What is the population of Rutherford County?

The population of Rutherford County is 64,444 according to the 2020 Census.

What is Rutherford County known for?

Rutherford County is known for Chimney Rock, Lake Lure, and scenic mountain landscapes.

What are the major highways in Rutherford County?

Major highways include US-74, US-221, NC-108, and NC-226.

Are there golf courses in Rutherford County?

Yes, Rutherford County has golf courses including Cleghorn Golf & Sports Club and Meadowbrook Golf Club.