Polk County
countyPolk County, North Carolina, nestled in the western part of the state, offers a blend of mountain scenery and rural charm. As of 2020, the population was 19,328, but recent estimates suggest it has grown to over 20,000. The county is characterized by its peaceful environment, equestrian culture, and a growing number of wineries and cideries. The economy of Polk County is diverse, with key sectors including health care, manufacturing, and retail trade. Agriculture also plays a significant role, supported by local government initiatives. The Tryon International Equestrian Center attracts tourists and boosts the local economy. What sets Polk County apart is its location in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offering outdoor recreational opportunities such as hiking, whitewater rafting, and exploring Lake Adger. The county's commitment to preserving its rural character while fostering economic growth makes it a distinctive place to live and visit.
Polk County, North Carolina
- Classification
- County
- FIPS Code
- 37-149
- Country
- United States
- County
- Polk County
- Region
- Mountain
- Elevation
- 3,200 ft
- Total Area
- 238.45 sq mi
- Land Area
- 237.69 sq mi
- Water Area
- 0.76 sq mi
- Latitude
- 35.28
- Longitude
- -82.17
- Climate
- Polk County is in a transition zone between the Blue Ridge Mountains and Piedmont, often referred to as being in the foothills.
- Notable Features
- Tryon Peak · Wildcat Spur · Lake Adger · Green River Gorge
- Neighboring Areas
- Henderson County, NC · Rutherford County, NC · Spartanburg County, SC · Greenville County, SC
- Population (2020)
- 19,328
- Est. Population (2024)
- 20,320
- Median Age
- 54.4
- Median Income
- $61,005
- Poverty Rate
- 13.7%
- Family Households
- 49.9%
- Owner-Occupied
- 75.7%
- Racial & Ethnic Composition
- The racial makeup of the county was 87.6% White, 3.6% Black or African American, 0.4% American Indian and Alaska Native, 0.3% Asian, 0.1% Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, 2.3% from some other race, and 5.7% from two or more races; Hispanic or Latino residents of any race comprised 5.3% of the population.
- Government Type
- County Commission
- Governing Body
- Board of Commissioners
- School District
- Polk County Schools
- Unemployment Rate
- 3.1%
- Economic Profile
- Rural · Agricultural · Tourism (Equestrian)
- Employment Sectors
- Health Care & Social Assistance · Manufacturing · Retail Trade
- Schools
- 7
- Students
- 2,037
- Teachers
- 168
- Student-Teacher Ratio
- 13:1
- Graduation Rate
- 81.70%
- School Districts
- Polk County Schools
- Transportation
- Interstate 26 · US Highway 74 · US Highway 176 · NC Route 9 · NC Route 108
- Major Facilities
- Polk County Courthouse
- Outdoor Access
- Yes
- Major Recreation Areas
- Lake Adger · Green River Gorge · Tryon International Equestrian Center · Polk County Recreation Complex · Bradley Nature Preserve at Alexander's Ford · Gibson Park & Pool · Laughter Pond
- Parks & Trails
- Five miles of trails · Three parks · Several other recreation areas
- Founded
- 1855
- Named After
- Colonel William Polk
- Historical Significance
- Polk County was named for Colonel William Polk, a Revolutionary War hero. The area was initially inhabited by Cherokee Indians, followed by Scotch-Irish and German settlers.
- Key Events
- Formed from parts of Henderson and Rutherford counties · Tryon International Equestrian Center hosted the 2018 FEI World Equestrian Games