Cullowhee /ˈkʌlʌhwiː/ is a census-designated place (CDP) in Jackson County, North Carolina, United States. Cullowhee is best known for being the home of Western Carolina University (WCU). The population was 9,428 as of the 2010 census. The area known as Cullowhee has Western Carolina University, part of the UNC System, and the village/town of Forest Hills within its area. The Jackson County Recreation Department and the Jackson County Airport are also located in the Cullowhee area.