Wilkes County's 2026 population is estimated at 66,524, reflecting a 0.25% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Wilkes County is the 43rd largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 69,265 and has grown -3.96% since 2010.
Data after 2023 is projected based on recent change
Overall: 45.7 years
Female: 46.7 years
Male: 43.9 years
There are 52,776 adults, (15,110 of whom are seniors) in Wilkes County.
Female: 33,269 (50.5%)
Male: 32,666 (49.5%)
The racial composition of Wilkes County includes 86.96% White, 3.64% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for other race, Asian, Native American and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 57,339 | 86.96% |
| Two or more races | 4,062 | 6.16% |
| Black or African American | 2,403 | 3.64% |
| Other race | 1,607 | 2.44% |
| Asian | 396 | 0.6% |
| Native American | 128 | 0.19% |
Wilkes County 's average per capita income is $36,977. Household income levels show a median of $51,721. The poverty rate stands at 16.73%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $74,873 | $86,472 |
| Families | $62,806 | $76,666 |
| Households | $51,721 | $66,361 |
| Non Families | $29,686 | $39,488 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate