Skip to content

About Rutherford County

Rutherford Bound

Rutherford Bound is a "campaign to improve and connect the communities of Rutherford County."  The vision for Rutherford Bound focuses on community revitalization, streetscape investments and placing focus on the beautiful parks, greenways and trails in Rutherford County.  To learn more about this campaign and how you can be involved, visit http://www.rutherfordbound.com.

Area

The population of Rutherford County is 64,586.  The county is 563 square miles.   The county is composed of eight municipalities: Bostic, Chimney Rock, Ellenboro, Forest City, Rutherfordton, Ruth, Spindale and Lake Lure. Connected by US Hwy 74-Business, Rutherfordton, Spindale, and Forest City form 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.

Climate

Average annual temperature, 59.9 F; average rainfall, 49.91 inches. Rainfall is concentrated in Spring and Fall. Average humidity, approximately 65%. Located in the Isothermal Belt, there are 200 frost-free days in the growing season. Average snowfall, around 4 inches.

Employment

The labor force is 24,233, with 23,033 employed and 1,200 unemployed.  Updated 04/27/2022 http://www.rutherfordncedc.com.

Schools

Rutherford County offers a wide array of educational opportunities.   The Rutherford County School System offers a great public education and is divided into 3 districts. More information on school districts can be found at http://www.rcsnc.org .  Rutherford County also offers an early college program REaCH.

In addition to our County’s public-school opportunities,  Rutherford County offers private education through Trinity Christian School, The Master’s Academy, and Liberty Christian Academy.  Rutherford County has 2 charter schools – Thomas Jefferson Classical Academy and Lake Lure Classical Academy.   Rutherford County is home to a large homeschool group.  Information about The Homeschool Association of Rutherford and Polk Counties (HARC) can be found on the public Facebook group HARC.

Isothermal Community College offers a variety of courses and activities. Whether you are looking to obtain a two or four-year degree, ICC can meet your educational needs. For more information call (828) 286-3636.

Rutherford Bound
Rutherford Bound
downtown rutherfordton with lights
downtown rutherfordton with lights
Town of Forest City Fountain
Forest City Fountain
Chimney Rock State Park
Chimney Rock State Park