Polk County's 2026 population is estimated at 20,678, reflecting a 0.71% growth rate over the past year (World Population Review estimate based on U.S. Census Bureau data). Polk County is the 80th largest county in North Carolina. The 2010 population was 20,474 and has grown 1% since 2010.
Overall: 54.9 years
Female: 57.6 years
Male: 52 years
There are 16,844 adults, (6,487 of whom are seniors) in Polk County.
Female: 10,361 (52.1%)
Male: 9,530 (47.9%)
The racial composition of Polk County includes 86.97% White, 4.4% Black or African American, and smaller percentages for Asian, other race, Native American and multiracial populations.
| Race | Population ↓ | Percentage (of total) |
|---|---|---|
| White | 17,300 | 86.97% |
| Two or more races | 1,375 | 6.91% |
| Black or African American | 876 | 4.4% |
| Asian | 154 | 0.77% |
| Other race | 144 | 0.72% |
| Native American | 42 | 0.21% |
Polk County 's average per capita income is $38,609. Household income levels show a median of $67,758. The poverty rate stands at 14.01%.
| Name | Median ↓ | Mean |
|---|---|---|
| Married Families | $99,589 | - |
| Families | $88,974 | $120,513 |
| Households | $67,758 | $96,279 |
| Non Families | $35,378 | $52,853 |
Average Income
Median Household Income
Poverty Rate