High Country Times

Of the 54,077 citizens living in Watauga County in 2021, 97.6% said they were only one race, while 2.4% said they were two or more races, according to U.S. Census Bureau data obtained in June.

The most prevalent racial group among citizens in Watauga County who reported being of a single race in 2021 was white, comprising 93.2% or 50,392 individuals. Following them, African American accounted for 1.8% and totaled 998 individuals.

The percentage of multiracial residents in Watauga County is 2.4% lower than the state average, which stands at 4.8%.

An agency of the U.S. Federal Statistical System, the Census Bureau is responsible for compiling statistical facts about the American people, places and economy. Data for this story was compiled from the bureau's American Community Survey. Information from the survey helps to determine how federal and state funds are distributed. These funds significantly influence community services, education, and infrastructure in areas like Watauga County.

	Estimated Total
White	50,392
Multiracial	1,281
African American	998
Asian	691
Some Other Race	451
American Indian or Alaska Native	236
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander	28

Source: US Census Bureau