Total Population
366,987
Median Age
44
Diversity Index
49.100
Source: ESRI, 2025-08-18
Hickory – Lenoir – Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area
The Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area is defined by the U.S. Census Bureau as the area in the Catawba Valley region of Western North Carolina consisting of four counties: Caldwell, Catawba, Alexanderand Burke. It is an important economic hub for the Western Piedmont region furniture making, textiles and food processing industries.
Population
Housing & Income
Households
152,114
Total Housing Units
168,862
Owner Occupied
108,419
Renter Occupied
43,695
Vacant
16,748
Median Home Value
$250,852
Average Home Value
$305,958
Income Projection
Median Household
$61,811 $69,529
Average Household
$84,892 $94,933
Per Capita
$35,240 $40,095
Source: ESRI, 2025-08-18
Workforce
Total Businesses
12,598
Total Employed
164,268
Workers 16+
165,064
2025 Manufacturing Businesses
Businesses
754
Employed
27,861
2025 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
1,928
Employed
24,310
2025 HealthCare / Social Assistance
Businesses
1,156
Employed
23,735
2025 Public Administration
Businesses
572
Employed
13,449
2025 Accommodation / Food Service
Businesses
855
Employed
12,888
2025 Food Service / Drinking Est.
Businesses
772
Employed
11,987
Some
High School
21,154
Graduated
High School
69,620
Associates
Degree
35,422
Bachelor's
Degree
43,931
Graduate
Degree
20,122
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
109,800
Non-Resident Commuters
53,747
Drive Alone
135,094
Carpooled
16,136
Public
227
Work At Home
10,830
Source: ESRI, 2025-08-18
