DISCOVER WILKES COUNTY

The Gateway to Northwest North Carolina

Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Wilkes County serves as the pivotal hub connecting businesses, communities, and opportunities throughout the region.

CONNECT WITH US

DISCOVER WILKES COUNTY

The Gateway to Northwest North Carolina

Situated in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, Wilkes County serves as the pivotal hub connecting businesses, communities, and opportunities throughout the region.

CONNECT WITH US

I am a…

Select the option that best defines you for a more personalized experience.

Site Selector, Broker, or Relocating Business

View prime real estate and key county statistics.

Local
Business

Learn about available resources and support provided.

Startup
Company

Learn more about the area, workforce, and incentives.

Wilkes County
Citizen

View current activity and local information.

Annual Report Front Cover

Wilkes EDC 2024-25 Annual Report

Wilkes EDC offers an overview of its 2024-25 year of notable activities and economic success in Wilkes County.

Cover of Wilkes County Childcare Study

Wilkes County Childcare Study

Delve into an in-depth exploration of childcare dynamics within Wilkes County. This study illuminates current capacities, demand trends, and areas of opportunity. Uncover key findings that highlight t…

wilkes-county-home-edited

Wilkes County Housing Study (Previous 2020 Release)

Navigate a comprehensive analysis of housing trends, availability, and affordability in Wilkes County. This study presents critical data on home prices, rental markets, and growth projections, offerin…

Wilkes EDC - LEAP Forward Campaign Booklet-cover

LEAP Forward Campaign

Wilkes EDC works closely with businesses and the community to find unique solutions to economic challenges. Since 2010, Private LEAP funds have been instrumental to ensure this mission is possible. It is time to request your help replenishing the funds to continue moving Wilkes Forward.

Wilkes EDC works closely with businesses and the community to find unique solutions to economic challenges. Since 2010, private LEAP funds have been instrumental in making this mission possible. Wilkes EDC expresses our gratitude to those who have already committed to the LEAP Forward Campaign and the EDC’s mission! Below is a list of our investors to date.
If you want to learn more about our LEAP Forward campaign or are ready to support our mission, click the button below to visit our page.

Advocate Investors

Anonymous Donor

Arnold and Becky Lakey

Blair Properties LLC/Allen Tate

Brushy Mountain Powersports

Carolina West Wireless

Church & Church Lumber Co.

Contentment Golf Club

CS Forester Benefits Group

Dale and Michelle Isom

Duke Energy

ECS Southeast, LLC

Faw Insurance

Fortress Management Group, Inc.

Frontier Natural Gas

Hampton Inn

Holiday Inn Express Wilkesboro

No Caption

McNeill Nissan

McNeill Nissan

North Wilkesboro Speedway

Omega Construction

Prism Medical Products

No Caption

Steve C. Davis, Inc.

T&J Produce

Transource Truck Leasing

Wilkie Construction Company SE

Click here to view the full list

COUNTY
POPULATION

COUNTY
WORKFORCE

100,226 within 45-min Commute

$

AVERAGE ANNUAL
WAGES (2026)
($24.16/hr)

%

UNEMPLOYMENT RATE
FOR FEBRUARY 2026

Industry Clusters

Concentrations of related industries helps fuel the regional economy and generate sustainable living and innovation.

We leverage the area’s natural resources.

Wilkes County’s thriving building materials sector, fueled by local resources, spurred the growth of Lowe’s Companies and attracted related companies such as ECMD, Jeld-Wen, Gardner Glass, Window World, and various lumber companies to form a knowledgeable network of building experts.

We fuel the region with a bustling food processing division.

Our agricultural legacy fuels a strong food processing sector, processing chickens, selling ham, and hosting wineries, distilleries, and breweries. It boasts a burgeoning viticulture and craft beer scene.

We are proud of our rich agricultural heritage.

Wilkes County stands as a key player in North Carolina’s agriculture, ranking high in poultry, cattle, corn silage, hay, and apple production. Its robust impact contributes significantly to the county’s economy and employment.

We take advantage of our back office prowess.

Wilkes County’s proficient workforce offers essential back office support, handling tasks like administration, customer service, and logistics for major organizations. Notable examples include Samaritan’s Purse, Window World, and Lowe’s presence, showcasing the county’s role in global operations.

We lead rural broadband in North Carolina.

Wilkes County boasts robust high-speed broadband options, including widespread fiber connectivity that surpasses state averages by 14.08%, facilitating global business connections and fostering rural innovation like cybersecurity.

We embrace Wilkes County’s abundant outdoor opportunities.

Wilkes County is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, offering diverse activities like fishing, kayaking, mountain biking, and more. This enhances both local life and tourism, supported by state parks, rivers, and lake amenities.

View All industries

Old Wilkes County Courthouse

WHY WILKES

We value our past and welcome our future.

Delve into Wilkes County’s rich history and heritage. From its indigenous roots to pivotal historical events, explore a tapestry of culture, traditions, and impactful legacies that define the region.

hero_workforce-development-labor

WHY WILKES

We build a strong workforce.

Uncover promising opportunities in Wilkes County’s robust workforce. Benefit from diverse industries, skilled labor, and a supportive community fostering professional growth and success.

hero_technology-industry

WHY WILKES

We lead rural broadband in NC.

Wilkes County excels in high-speed broadband, with extensive fiber connectivity surpassing state averages, fostering global business links and rural innovation, including cybersecurity.

Wilkes County is part of the Carolina Core

WHY WILKES

We travel with ease along the Carolina Core.

Experience seamless travel and accessibility in Wilkes County. Discover efficient mobility options, well-connected routes, and convenient access, enhancing exploration and connectivity throughout the area.

hero_wilkes-outdoor-action-plan

WHY WILKES

We explore our vast outdoor beauty.

Immerse yourself in Wilkes County’s captivating outdoors. From scenic trails and serene waterways to diverse recreational activities, embrace nature’s beauty and adventure in every season.

Major Employers

View employer list >>

MISSION & SERVICES

About Wilkes EDC

Our mission is to facilitate the creation of new jobs and capital investment in Wilkes County through the retention and expansion of existing businesses, recruitment of new businesses, and real estate development for county growth.