Established in 1842, Union County is one of the fastest growing counties in the state of North Carolina. It provides a unique blend of rural and metropolitan lifestyles. While having vast areas of nature untouched by development, it also has areas flourishing in suburban and industrial growth. The primary factors contributing to Union's economic growth are agriculture, business and industry.  Situated in the south central piedmont area of North Carolina the population is estimated at 201,292 with approximately 643 square miles of land.

Union County functions under the commissioner/manager form of government with five commissioners elected countywide with an appointed county manager. The commissioners meet the first and third Monday of every month.