Wilkes County, North Carolina
Income Data
U.S. Census Bureau ACSAt a Glance
Economic Indicators
How Wilkes County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Income Advisory: Wilkes County
Income Verdict
Wilkes County has a median household income of $50,438 and per capita income of $27,866 — a gap of $22,572, suggesting a typical mix of dual-income and single-earner households.
Housing Affordability
With median gross rent at $715/month and a median household income of $50,438, rent consumes approximately 17.0% of monthly income — well within affordable thresholds.
Economic Context
With a median household income of $50,438, residents of Wilkes County likely face budget constraints in higher-cost regions but may find cost of living manageable locally. Per capita income of $27,866 suggests below-average individual earnings, which may reflect local employment mix or industrial composition.
Neighbor Context
Wilkes County earns approximately 17.4% below the North Carolina state median household income of $61,072.
Data Story
About Household Income in Wilkes County, North Carolina
Wilkes lags far behind national income
Wilkes County's median household income of $50,438 trails the U.S. median by $24,317—a 33% gap that signals real economic headwinds. This income level places Wilkes well below the typical American household, reflecting the county's reliance on manufacturing and blue-collar work that often pays less than knowledge-based industries.
Below average for North Carolina
At $50,438, Wilkes ranks below North Carolina's state median of $61,072, putting the county in the lower tier among the state's 100 counties. This $10,634 shortfall reflects regional economic challenges and limited high-wage job creation compared to urban hubs like Charlotte and Raleigh.
Struggling compared to peers
Wilkes households earn less than nearby Yadkin County ($60,321) and Wilson County ($51,381), but outpace some rural neighbors. The gap suggests that Wilkes residents face tighter household budgets than residents in neighboring counties with more diversified economies.
Rent costs are very manageable here
At 17% of household income, Wilkes County's rent-to-income ratio is well below the national threshold of 30%, meaning housing remains affordable for renters. This affordability advantage is one of the county's strengths, allowing households to stretch limited incomes toward other necessities.
Build wealth despite lower income
With housing costs under control, Wilkes households have a rare opportunity to prioritize saving and investing, even on modest incomes. Starting with a small emergency fund and exploring employer retirement plans (401k or IRA) can set the foundation for long-term wealth growth and financial security.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How does Wilkes County rank for income in North Carolina?
Income Comparison Calculator
See how your household income compares in Wilkes County
Your income is above the Wilkes County median
County median: $50,438 per year
vs. County Median
+0%
vs. State Average
-17%
vs. National Median
-33%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($4,203) vs. median rent ($715/mo). A ratio of 3.3x or higher means rent is under 30% of income.
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Compare RatesData: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey (ACS) 5-Year Estimates (2019-2023) — Informational only. Not financial or legal advice.