Knoxville, IA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
7,473
-0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,599/yr
-12.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
3,478
0.4% year-over-year change

Knoxville population

How many people live in Knoxville

Knoxville is home to 7,473 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.6% of Knoxville locals are male, and 54.4% are female.

Total population
7,473
-0.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.6%
3,408
Female
54.4%
4,065
Value Percent YoY change
Male 3,408 45.6% 1.4%
Female 4,065 54.4% -1.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Knoxville is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.2% are children under 15, then 13.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 24.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.2%
15 to 24
13.7%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
24.2%
Over 65
23%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,132 15.2% -3.5%
15 to 24 1,026 13.7% -7.7%
25 to 44 1,784 23.9% 8.6%
45 to 64 1,811 24.2% -5.9%
Over 65 1,720 23% 4.8%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Knoxville, 98.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 94.2% of locals are Caucasian, 0.3% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 7,334 98.1% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 134 1.8% 16.5%
Non-citizens 5 0.1% -72.2%
Racial breakdown
White
94.2%
Black or African American
0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.5%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 7,041 94.2%
Black or African American 20 0.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 2 0%
Asian 111 1.5%
Two or more races 263 3.5%
Other 36 0.5%

Households in Knoxville

A peek inside Knoxville households

Knoxville has 3,173 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.8% are families, while the remaining 37.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,173
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,180
Family households
1,993
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,180 37.2% 2.2%
Family households 1,993 62.8% -2.4%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Knoxville

The housing landscape of Knoxville

Knoxville's housing consists of 3,478 units, with 71.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.8% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 7.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
3,478
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,474 71.1%
1 unit, attached 63 1.8%
2 units 72 2.1%
3 or 4 units 267 7.7%
5 to 9 units 177 5.1%
10 to 19 units 123 3.5%
20 to 49 units 22 0.6%
Mobile home 272 7.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 8 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Knoxville

In Knoxville, the median construction year is 1971. About 21.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 742 21.3% -3.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 170 4.9% -37.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 292 8.4% -24.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 487 14% -15.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 765 22% 37.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 258 7.4% 30.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 368 10.6% 1.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 191 5.5% 16.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 205 5.9% 11.4%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Knoxville occupancy rates

Out of the 3,173 occupied housing units in Knoxville, 76% are owner-occupied, while 24% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,173
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
763
Owner occupied
2,410
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 763 24% -7.1%
Owner occupied 2,410 76% 1.5%
Unoccupied housing units
8.8%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Knoxville housing costs

Housing costs in Knoxville come to a median of $858 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $801.

Median housing costs per month
$858/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Knoxville
$801/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Knoxville

Knoxville education at a glance

About 41.7% of the population in Knoxville went to high school, while 20.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.5% earned an associate degree and 20.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 104 1.7% 31.6%
High school diploma 2,510 41.7% 4.9%
College diploma 1,208 20.1% -7.6%
Associate degree 513 8.5% 3.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,230 20.4% -5.9%
Graduate degree 453 7.5% 10.5%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Knoxville

How much people earn in Knoxville

The average annual household income in Knoxville was $84,447 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,599, reflecting a -12.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Knoxville
$84,447/year
-4.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Knoxville
$61,599/year
-12.2% year-over-year change

Knoxville income by age

In Knoxville, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $82,940. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $66,944 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $67,536, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,705 in earnings. Overall, 87.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $67,536 3.3%
25 - 44 $82,940 2.7%
45 - 64 $66,944 -15.6%
Over 65 $49,705 -15.4%
Above poverty level
6,291
Below poverty level
907
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,291 87.4% -3.8%
Below poverty level 907 12.6% 38.5%

Average renter income in Knoxville

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Knoxville, their median household income was $36,840 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 26.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,840
Rent-to-income ratio
26.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Knoxville

Workforce and job types in Knoxville

The job market in Knoxville is powered by 3,785 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.9% run their own businesses, 73.4% are employed by private companies, and 10.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,785
3.1% year-over-year change
White collar
2,763
Blue collar
1,022
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,763 73% 7.2%
Blue collar 1,022 27% -6.6%
Employer type
Self employees
8.9%
Private companies
73.4%
Governmental workers
10.8%
Not for profit companies
6.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 338 8.9% 57.9%
Private companies 2,778 73.4% -0.5%
Governmental workers 408 10.8% -9.5%
Not for profit companies 261 6.9% 22.0%
Unemployment rate
4.8%
162.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Knoxville stands at 4.8%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Knoxville

How people get around in Knoxville

Commuting methods vary: 86.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,233 86.4% 7.3%
Taxicab 5 0.1% 0.0%
Motorcycle 22 0.6% N/A
Walk 43 1.2% -24.6%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

What is the median and average household income in Knoxville by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
50138 11,117 4,663 $74,693 $96,085

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FAQs about Knoxville demographics 

What is the total population of Knoxville?

Knoxville has a total population of 7,473 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by -0.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Knoxville?

The gender ratio in Knoxville is as follows:
  • 45.6% males (3,408 residents)
  • 54.4% females (4,065 residents)

What is the median age in Knoxville?

The median age in Knoxville is 42.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Knoxville?

The age distribution in Knoxville is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.2% (1,132 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.7% (1,026 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (1,784 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.2% (1,811 residents)
  • Over 65: 23% (1,720 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Knoxville?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Knoxville is as follows:
  • White: 94.2% (7,041 residents)
  • Black or African American: 0.3% (20 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (2 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (111 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.5% (263 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (36 residents)

What percentage of the population in Knoxville are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.1% of the population in Knoxville.

How many housing units are there in Knoxville?

There are 3,478 housing units in Knoxville, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Knoxville and what is the average household size?

Knoxville has a total of 3,173 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Knoxville?

Knoxville has a median household income of $61,599, representing a -12.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Knoxville?

The employment rate is 95.2% in Knoxville, with a workforce of 3,785 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73% (2,763 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27% (1,022 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.9% (338 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.4% (2,778 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.8% (408 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.9% (261 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025