The county is 563 sq. miles (Rutherfordton 2.6 sq. miles, Spindale 4.62 sq. miles, and Forest City 10.6 sq. miles).
The county is composed of eight municipalities:
Bostic
Chimney Rock
Ellenboro
Forest City
Rutherfordton
Ruth
Spindale
Lake Lure
Connected by US Hightway 74-Business, Rutherfordton, Spindale, and Forest City for the Tri-City area. The towns of Lake Lure and Chimney Rock are located approximately 20 miles west of Rutherfordton. Lake Lure is a private lake with public access.
Rutherfordton: 1,075 feet
Spindale: 960 feet
Forest City: 860 Feet
County’s lowest elevation: Caroleen at 806 feet
County’s highest elevation: Sugar Loaf at 3,967 feet
Average annual temperature: 59.9F
Average rainfall: 49.91 inches (rainfall is concentrated in Spring and Fall)
Average humidity: ~65%
Average snowfall: 2.75 inches
The county is located in the Isothermal Belt with 200 front-free days in the growing season.
Most major religions are active in the county or in nearby communities.
View additional demographic details: 19-20 Demographic Report
162 North Main Street
Rutherfordton, NC 28139
Phone: (828) 287-3090 • Monday – Friday, 8:30 am – 5:00 pm