Total Population
372,743
Median Age
44
Diversity Index
49.500
Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31
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
155,724
Total Housing Units
174,068
Owner Occupied
112,006
Renter Occupied
43,718
Vacant
18,344
Median Home Value
$258,855
Average Home Value
$313,751
Income Projection
Median Household
$67,605 $77,307
Average Household
$92,464 $107,452
Per Capita
$38,798 $45,892
Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31
Workforce
Total Businesses
12,618
Total Employed
163,710
Workers 16+
166,347
2026 Manufacturing Businesses
Businesses
736
Employed
26,278
2026 Retail Trade Businesses
Businesses
1,922
Employed
24,005
2026 HealthCare / Social Assistance
Businesses
1,166
Employed
23,160
2026 Accommodation / Food Service
Businesses
871
Employed
13,596
2026 Food Service / Drinking Est.
Businesses
786
Employed
12,696
2026 Public Administration
Businesses
555
Employed
12,694
Some
High School
21,497
Graduated
High School
72,503
Associates
Degree
36,359
Bachelor's
Degree
43,682
Graduate
Degree
21,531
Average Commute Time
0 min.
Resident Commuters
111,561
Non-Resident Commuters
53,415
Drive Alone
135,667
Carpooled
16,439
Public
157
Work At Home
11,853
Source: ESRI, 2026-08-31
