Cleveland County

Cleveland County is located along the South Carolina border in southwestern North Carolina, just between Asheville and Charlotte. Nestled among the Carolina Foothills, Cleveland County is known for its rolling landscapes and rippling rivers. As of 2024, around 100,000 residents call Cleveland County home. Its county seat is Shelby, but major municipalities include Kings Mountain, Boiling Springs, and Lawndale.

Its advantageous location has made the county a historical center for textile and manufacturing and it remains an industrial hub today. Its economic sectors have become diversified with healthcare, logistics and local industry being notable strengths. Cleveland County is also home to Gardner-Webb University in Boiling Springs, which attracts students from around the country.

The county has quite a few recreation opportunities for prospective tourists to enjoy like Kings Mountain State Park, Kings Mountain National Military Park, and part of Crowders Mountain National Park. It also hosts the yearly Cleveland County Fair, one of the largest agricultural fairs in the state.

Cleveland County has a number of strengths. It offers a lower cost of living than Charlotte, a mix of rural areas and small suburban towns and easy access to both the mountains and the urban region of Charlotte. However, it still experiences a mix of economic, health and demographic challenges common among semi-rural counties. It struggles to attract higher-wage employers, experiences income inequality, lacks affordable housing and is home to an aging population.

Fortunately, it has been said that Cleveland County already has the foundation for economic success. Its close proximity to Charlotte, commitment to historical identity in towns like Shelby and attractions like the County Fair are stepping stones to success that are already in place. Coupled alongside strong civic leadership that already exists within the county, a bright future for Cleveland County is certainly in the days to come.

Photos by Nancy Pierce

Cleveland County links