History
From moonshine and music to the start of a multi-billion dollar hardware company, Wilkes County is known for its pioneers. Check out how a rural county in the Carolina mountains helped define exactly what it means to be American.
Race and Ethnicity
In terms of race and religion, Wilkes County differs significantly from North Carolina and the U.S. It has a much higher White population percentage than the state and nation along with significantly lower Hispanic, Black, and Asian population percentages. Additionally, religion is very different in Wilkes County, with a high religious population, many Baptists, and an almost non-existent Jewish and Muslim community.
Health
Within North Carolina, Wilkes County ranks below average for health statistics. The area is characterized by a higher than average opioid overdose rate and a lower than average percentage of health insured populace.
Population
Wilkes County is the 39th most populous county in North Carolina. While the population of North Carolina has grown in recent years, the population of Wilkes County has decreased from an 69,340 in 2010 to an estimated 68,557 in 2018.
Things to do in Wilkes County
| Wilkes County attracts visitors with its many natural features, including national parks, waterfalls, hiking grounds, fishing and more. Wilkes also offers cultural engagement opportunities for all ages, featuring the Wilkes County Heritage Museum, a museum that allows tourists to get first hand history of how the moonshine community of Wilkes led to the creation of NASCAR. |
NASCAR
Racing has been a part of Wilkes County culture since the North Wilkesboro Motor Speedway was built in 1946. While NASCAR no longer uses the short track, other race tracks in the area keep the sport alive and well.
Economy
As a smaller town in North Carolina, many would assume Wilke’s county relies on agriculture to sustain their economy. However, from Tyson to Lowe’s, Wilkes is actually home to many businesses that employ the residents.