The term "smallest county" in North Carolina can refer to different metrics: either the least populous county or the county with the smallest land area. North Carolina has distinct counties that hold these titles.
By population, Tyrrell County is the smallest. By land area, Chowan County is the smallest.
Smallest by Population: Tyrrell County
Tyrrell County, located in the U.S. state of North Carolina, is notable for being the least populous county in the state. According to the 2020 census, its population stood at 3,245 residents. This makes it a significantly rural area, characterized by a close-knit community and vast natural landscapes.
Key facts about Tyrrell County:
- Population (2020 Census): 3,245
- Status: Least populous county in North Carolina
- County Seat: Columbia
- Creation: It was established as Tyrrell Precinct in 1729 and officially gained county status in 1739.
Tyrrell County's low population density reflects its largely agricultural and natural resource-dependent economy, with significant portions of its land dedicated to forests, wetlands, and agricultural fields.
Smallest by Land Area: Chowan County
While Tyrrell County holds the distinction for population, Chowan County is recognized as the smallest county in North Carolina by land area. Located in the northeastern part of the state, Chowan County covers approximately 172 square miles (approximately 445 square kilometers) of land.
Key facts about Chowan County:
- Land Area: Approximately 172 square miles (445 km²)
- County Seat: Edenton
- Historical Significance: Chowan County is one of North Carolina's oldest counties, steeped in colonial history. Edenton, its county seat, was once the colonial capital of North Carolina and boasts significant historical architecture and landmarks.
Despite its small land size, Chowan County is culturally and historically rich, offering a blend of waterfront living, historical preservation, and a connection to the state's origins.
Comparative Overview of North Carolina's Smallest Counties
To provide a clear distinction, here's a comparative overview of these two unique counties:
| Feature | Tyrrell County | Chowan County |
|---|---|---|
| Metric | Smallest by Population | Smallest by Land Area |
| 2020 Population | 3,245 | 14,068 (approx.) |
| Land Area | ~392 sq mi (~1015 km²) | ~172 sq mi (~445 km²) |
| County Seat | Columbia | Edenton |
| Significance | Least populous | Smallest by physical size |
Both Tyrrell and Chowan counties contribute uniquely to North Carolina's diverse landscape, representing different aspects of what it means to be "small" within the state's county structure.
