Cities and Towns in Wilkes County, North Carolina

Founded in 1777, Wilkes County is one of 100 counties in the state of North Carolina. Historically, Wilkes County was formed from Surry County. The city of Wilkesboro is the county seat. With FIPS code of 193, Wilkes County has a population of 65,806 and area of 760 square miles (1,968 km²).

List of all cities in Wilkes County, NC alphabetically

City/Town	Postal Code	Area Code
Abshers, NC	28685	336
Boomer, NC	28606	336
Call, NC	28659	336
Champion, NC	28624	336
Clingman, NC	28670	336
Cricket, NC	28659	336
Darby, NC	28624	336
Denny, NC	28624	336
Dimmette, NC	28670	336
Dockery, NC	28685	336
Doughton, NC	28683	336
Fairplains, NC	28659	336
Ferguson, NC	28624	336
Goshen, NC	28697	336
Halls Mills, NC	28649	336
Hayes, NC	28635	336
Hays, NC	28635	336
Hendrix, NC	28624	336
Hunting Creek, NC	28659	336
Joynes, NC	28685	336
Lomax, NC	28669	336
Lowes Co Inc, NC	28656	336
Maple Springs, NC	28665	336
Mc Grady, NC	28649	336
McGrady, NC	28649	336
Millers Creek, NC	28651	336
Moravian Falls, NC	28654	336
Moxley, NC	28685	336
Mulberry, NC	28659	336
North Wilkesboro, NC	28656	336
	28659	336
Parsonville, NC	28665	336
Purlear, NC	28665	336
Quarry, NC	28659	336
Radical, NC	28649	336
Roaring River, NC	28669	336
Ronda, NC	28670	336
Spurgeon, NC	28659	336
Thurmond, NC	28683	336
Traphill, NC	28685	336
Walsh, NC	28665	336
Wilbar, NC	28651	336
Wilkesboro, NC	28697	336
Windy Gap, NC	28659	336

Major Cities and Towns in Wilkes County, North Carolina

Wilkesboro

Overview

• Area: Approximately 6.0 square miles (15.5 km²)
• Population: 3,413 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28697
• Latitude and Longitude: 36.1485° N, 81.1615° W

Location and History

Wilkesboro, the county seat of Wilkes County, is situated in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains along the south bank of the Yadkin River. Established in 1800, the town was named in honor of John Wilkes, a British parliamentarian who supported American independence. Wilkesboro’s early economy was rooted in agriculture and trade, benefiting from its strategic location near the Yadkin River, which facilitated transportation and commerce. Over time, the town evolved into a cultural and economic hub for the region, hosting events like the annual MerleFest, a renowned music festival that celebrates Americana and bluegrass traditions.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Wilkesboro is served by the Wilkes County Schools district, with Wilkesboro Elementary School providing education for younger students. Wilkes Community College, located in the town, offers higher education opportunities and hosts MerleFest annually. Notable landmarks include the Wilkes Heritage Museum, housed in the historic 1902 courthouse, which showcases the county’s rich history. The Old Wilkes County Jail, dating back to 1859, is another significant site, offering insights into the area’s past. Additionally, the town features several parks and recreational facilities, such as Cub Creek Park, which provides amenities for outdoor activities and community events.

North Wilkesboro

Overview

• Area: Approximately 7.5 square miles (19.4 km²)
• Population: 4,131 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28659
• Latitude and Longitude: 36.1585° N, 81.1478° W

Location and History

North Wilkesboro is located directly across the Yadkin River from Wilkesboro, forming a twin city arrangement. Founded in 1891, the town emerged as a result of the expansion of the railroad, which spurred economic growth and development. North Wilkesboro quickly became a commercial center, with industries such as furniture manufacturing and textiles playing significant roles in its economy. The town is also notable for its connection to the early days of stock car racing, with the North Wilkesboro Speedway being one of the first tracks in NASCAR history.

Major Schools and Landmarks

The town is part of the Wilkes County Schools system, with North Wilkesboro Elementary School serving local students. Landmarks include the historic downtown area, which features a variety of shops, restaurants, and the Wilkes Art Gallery, promoting local arts and culture. The North Wilkesboro Speedway, though currently inactive, remains a symbol of the town’s rich motorsports heritage. Additionally, the Yadkin Valley Greenway offers scenic trails along the river, providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.

Ronda

Overview

• Area: Approximately 1.1 square miles (2.8 km²)
• Population: 417 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28670
• Latitude and Longitude: 36.2168° N, 80.9412° W

Location and History

Ronda is a small town located in the eastern part of Wilkes County, near the Yadkin River. Incorporated in 1907, the town was named after the nearby estate of Benjamin Cleveland, a Revolutionary War hero. Ronda’s history is closely tied to agriculture, particularly tobacco farming, which was a primary economic activity for many years. The town’s rural setting and proximity to the river have contributed to its development as a close-knit community with a rich heritage.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Ronda is served by the Wilkes County Schools district, with students attending Ronda-Clingman Elementary School and East Wilkes High School. Notable landmarks include the historic Benjamin Cleveland House, also known as “Roundabout,” which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The town’s location along the Yadkin River provides opportunities for fishing and boating, adding to its appeal for outdoor enthusiasts. Additionally, Ronda hosts community events throughout the year, celebrating its history and fostering a strong sense of community among residents.

Mulberry

Overview

• Area: Approximately 5.0 square miles (12.9 km²)
• Population: 2,332 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28659
• Latitude and Longitude: 36.2426° N, 81.1473° W

Location and History

Mulberry is an unincorporated community located in the northern part of Wilkes County. The area is named after the Mulberry Fields, which were significant in the region’s early agricultural history. Mulberry’s development has been closely linked to farming, with a focus on crops such as corn and tobacco. The community’s rural character and scenic landscapes have made it a peaceful place to live, with a strong emphasis on family and tradition.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Educational needs in Mulberry are met by the Wilkes County Schools district, with Mulberry Elementary School serving local students. The community is home to several churches and historic homes that reflect its rich heritage. The nearby Stone Mountain State Park offers hiking trails, fishing, and camping facilities, providing residents and visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Mulberry’s annual events, such as local fairs and festivals, celebrate the community’s agricultural roots and foster a strong sense of togetherness among residents.

Moravian Falls

Overview

• Area: Approximately 5.5 square miles (14.2 km²)
• Population: 1,802 (2020 census)
• ZIP Code: 28654
• Latitude and Longitude: 36.0976° N, 81.1784° W

Location and History

Moravian Falls is an unincorporated community situated in the central part of Wilkes County. The area is named after the Moravian missionaries who settled there in the 18th century and the picturesque waterfall located within the community. Moravian Falls has a rich history tied to early American settlement and religious missions. The community’s scenic beauty and tranquil environment have made it a popular destination for retreats and outdoor activities.

Major Schools and Landmarks

Moravian Falls Elementary School serves the educational needs of the community and is part of the Wilkes County Schools district. The Moravian Falls waterfall is a notable landmark, attracting visitors interested in its natural beauty and historical significance. The community is also home to several camps and retreat centers, offering programs and facilities for various groups. Additionally, the nearby W. Kerr Scott Reservoir provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and hiking, enhancing the recreational options available to residents and visitors of Moravian Falls.