High Country Times

Of the 66,335 citizens living in Wilkes County in 2021, 96.1% said they were only one race, while 3.9% 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 Wilkes County who reported being of a single race in 2021 was white, comprising 89.4% or 59,328 individuals. Following them, African American accounted for 3.9% and totaled 2,578 individuals.

The percentage of multiracial residents in Wilkes County is 0.9% 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 Wilkes County.

	Estimated Total
White	59,328
Multiracial	2,607
African American	2,578
Some Other Race	1,010
Asian	375
American Indian or Alaska Native	226
Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander	211

Source: US Census Bureau