Wilkesboro, NC: What you need to know
Wilkesboro, located in the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains on the bank of the Yadkin River, offers laid-back living along with plenty of opportunities for outdoor recreation such as mountain biking, birding and canoeing. The city hosts several festivals, including MerleFest, which celebrates Americana music and is held on the Wilkes Community College campus.
The community is home to locations for several well-known brands, including Tyson Foods and Lowe's, which contribute to the business climate along with textile and furniture companies. Long known for its moonshine-running heritage (credited for establishing stock-car racing's roots), the area has recently experienced a rebirth of (now legal) moonshine distilleries lending a historic twist to new business and tourism opportunities.
New Distilleries Celebrate Wilkes County's Moonshine Heritage
Once illegal 'white lightning' now part of growing legitimate business
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Agriculture Industry Strong in Wilkes County
The cattle and poultry industries spell success for western N.C.
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Discover the Outdoors in Wilkes County, NC
Multiple attractions and amenities grace the entire community
Wilkesboro, NC City Profile
Quick Facts
| Population | 3,548 |
| Median Age | 42 |
| Median Household Income | $33,450 |
| Median Home Price | $181,400 |
Things To Do in Wilkesboro, NC
Livability Staff Photo Whippoorwill Academy and Village
There is a lot to see at Whippoorwill Academy and Village in Wilkesboro, NC, providing visitors with a better understanding of 19th century history.
Ian Curcio Arts & Culture in Wilkesboro, NC
An overview of arts destinations and other cultural attractions, from downtown entertainment to theater, in Wilkes County, NC.
Livability Staff Photo Outdoor Recreation in Wilkesboro, NC
Learn more about popular parks for outdoor recreation in Wilkesboro, NC, including state parks and skate parks.
Wendy Jo O'Barr Restaurants in Wilkes County, NC
Satisfy your hunger at one of Wilkes County's many delicious dining destinations
Real Estate in Wilkesboro, NC
Ian Curcio Wilkesboro, NC Real Estate
Popular neighborhoods and vacation rentals in Wilkesboro, North Wilkesboro and other parts of Wilkes County, NC.
Wendy Jo O'Barr Retirement in Wilkesboro, NC
Read residents' views on why Wilkes County is a great place for retirees or second homes.
Business in Wilkesboro, NC
Ian Curcio Businesses in Wilkesboro, NC
An overview of businesses in the Wilkes County, from Tyson Foods and Lowe's to Smokey Mountain Avionics.
iStock - marilyna Herbal Ingenuity Hunts Worldwide for the Best
Company distributes herbs from around the globe
Courtesy of the Town of Wilkesboro Wilkes County, NC Improves Infrastructure, Enhances Residents' Quality of Life
Trio of projects establishes stronger foundation for livability, economy
Waterhouse Studios Photography Wilkes County, NC Natives Return to Run Businesses
Wilkes natives return with new business concepts
Schools in Wilkesboro, NC
Wendy Jo O'Barr The Read and Ride Program in Wilkesboro, NC
The Read and Ride program in Wilkesboro, NC encourages kids to read while riding stationary bikes.
Ian Curcio Wilkes Community College
Established in 1965, Wilkes Community College serves as a resource for higher education in Wilkesboro, NC and northwest North Carolina.
Health in Wilkesboro, NC
Wendy Jo O'Barr Health Care Facilities in Wilkes County, NC
Wilkes County's health and wellness offerings continue to grow with the community
Wendy Jo O'Barr Wilkes County Health Foundation in Wilkesboro, NC
Wilkes County Health Foundation, a nonprofit community focused business, works with local hospitals to increase quality of care and services.
Wilkesboro, NC Demographics
Median Population
| Median Age | 41.5% |
| Age 18 Over | 74.4% |
| Age 21 Over | 67.7% |
| Age 62 Over | 24.6% |
| Age 65 Over | 21.8% |
Race
| Ethnicity White | 77.9% | |
| Ethnicity Black | 14.1% | |
| Ethnicity Asian | 1.4% | |
| Ethnicity Hispanic | 2.7% | |
| Ethnicity Other | 1.8% |
Population By Gender
| Male | 52.5% | |
| Female | 47.5% |
Language
| English Only | 97.4% | |
| English Other | 2.6% |
The vistas in Wilkes County are breathtaking. It's an incredibly beautiful county from a geographic point of view.
Commute Types
| Walked | 0% | |
| Worked at Home | 2.2% | |
| Public Transportation | 0% | |
| Other Means | 0% | |
| Drove Alone | 89.2% | |
| Carpooled | 8.6% |