Wilson County, North Carolina
Income Data
At a Glance
How Wilson County Compares
Detailed Income Statistics
Data Story
About Household Income in Wilson County, North Carolina
Wilson earns well below U.S. median
Wilson County's median household income of $51,381 falls $23,374 short of the national median of $74,755, reflecting regional economic constraints. This 31% income gap mirrors broader challenges in rural Eastern North Carolina, where manufacturing jobs have declined and wage growth has stalled.
Lower middle tier in North Carolina
Wilson's $51,381 median income sits below the state average of $61,072, placing the county in the lower-middle income bracket statewide. The $9,691 gap underscores that Wilson households have less disposable income than typical North Carolinians, limiting their purchasing power and savings potential.
Modest edge over western counties
Wilson earns slightly more than Wilkes County ($50,438) but less than nearby Yadkin County ($60,321) and Yancey County ($54,961). This middle position reflects Wilson's mix of agricultural and light industrial work, with less diversity than better-performing regional neighbors.
Rental affordability is stretched
Wilson County's rent-to-income ratio of 21.4% is rising toward the affordability threshold of 30%, signaling housing cost pressure for renters. While still manageable, this ratio is notably higher than state and national peers, meaning Wilson renters must dedicate a larger share of pay to housing.
Invest in skills and income growth
Given tight household budgets, Wilson residents should prioritize skill-building through trade certifications or associate degrees to unlock higher-wage jobs. Even modest income gains of $5,000–$10,000 per year can dramatically accelerate savings and wealth accumulation over a decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Income Comparison Calculator
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Your income is above the Wilson County median
County median: $51,381 per year
vs. County Median
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vs. State Average
-16%
vs. National Median
-31%
Income Adequacy
Your monthly income ($4,282) vs. median rent ($915/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.