Cerro Gordo is a town in Columbus County, North Carolina, United States. The population was 207 at the 2010 census. According to local legend, the town received its name from a local dignitary, who, upon seeing a fight break out at the dedication of the first railroad depot, exclaimed, "This reminds me of the "Battle of Cerro Gordo".Cerro Gordo is located at 34°19′20″N 78°55′41″W / 34.32222°N 78.92806°W / 34.32222; -78.92806.According to the United States Census Bureau, the town has a total area of 0.8 square miles, all of it land.Cerro Gordo, meaning 'fat hill' is a true statement to the lay of the land since it is found in the coastal plain region of North Carolina.Cerro Gordo is a really flat land, with the highest elevation in Columbus county. The majority of its land is reserved from crops, cows, and hog houses. In addition to the farms, there are two local prisons, and multiple businesses, such as BP and West Columbus High School.