An Overview of Buncombe County, North Carolina: Population, Economy, and Attractions

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Buncombe County, located in the western part of North Carolina, is known for its rugged mountain beauty and is often referred to as the "Land of the Sky." The county covers a total area of 659.95 square miles, with 656.50 square miles of land and 3.45 square miles of water. Asheville, the county seat, is a significant cultural, economic, and educational center in the region.

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Population and Demographics

As of the 2020 census, Buncombe County had a population of 269,452, making it the seventh-most populous county in North Carolina. The median age of residents is 42.3 years, slightly higher than the state average. The county has a diverse population, with the largest ethnic groups being White (Non-Hispanic) at 82.5%, Black or African American (Non-Hispanic) at 5.6%, and Hispanic or Latino at 8.14%.

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Education

Buncombe County is home to several higher education institutions, including Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, University of North Carolina at Asheville, Montreat College, and Warren Wilson College. However, a significant portion of the population has parents without a college degree, with 39% of students having parents who did not complete either a two- or four-year degree.

Economy

Tourism is a major industry in Buncombe County, contributing about 20% of the total economy and generating significant revenue for local governments. The county also has a diverse agricultural sector, producing milk, dairy products, burley tobacco, swine, honey, and various fruits and nuts. Additionally, Buncombe County has a strong manufacturing base, producing hosiery, glass products, textiles, apparel, baby foods, and electronics.

Attractions and Activities

Buncombe County offers a wide range of attractions and activities for residents and visitors alike. Some notable sites include:

• Biltmore Estate: A grand mansion built by George Vanderbilt in 1895, reminiscent of European castles.
  

  

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• Pisgah National Forest: Offers numerous outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and fishing.
  

  

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• Blue Ridge Parkway: A scenic drive that provides stunning views of the mountains and access to various recreational areas.
• River Arts District: A vibrant hub of art, culture, and commerce in Asheville.
  

  

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• Western North Carolina Nature Center: A family-friendly attraction featuring native wildlife and educational exhibits.

Historical Significance

Buncombe County was formed in 1791 from parts of Burke and Rutherford counties and was named after Edward Buncombe, a colonel in the American Revolutionary War. The area was originally inhabited by the Cherokee people before European settlers arrived in the early 18th century. The county has a rich history, including contributions to the English language with the term "bunkum," derived from a speech made by a U.S. Congressman from Buncombe County in 1820.

Government and Politics

Buncombe County operates under a council/manager form of government. The current commissioners were elected in 2020, and the county manager is Avril Pinder. The county is represented in the North Carolina Senate by Julie Mayfield (D–49th) and Warren Daniel (R–46th), and in the North Carolina House of Representatives by Eric Ager (D–114th), Lindsey Prather (D–115th), and Caleb Rudow (D–116th).

Transportation

The county is well-connected by major highways such as NC 146, NC 151, NC 191, NC 197, NC 251, NC 280, and NC 694. Asheville Regional Airport serves as the primary air travel hub for the region.

Buncombe County offers a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and economic diversity, making it a unique and vibrant place to live and visit.