Bolivar, TN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,144
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$39,028/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,276
-8.8% year-over-year change

Bolivar population

How many people live in Bolivar

Bolivar is home to 5,144 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 55.8% of Bolivar locals are male, and 44.2% are female.

Total population
5,144
-0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
55.8%
2,872
Female
44.2%
2,272
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,872 55.8% 2.4%
Female 2,272 44.2% -4.0%
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 Bolivar is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.6% are children under 15, then 16.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 21.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
34.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.6%
15 to 24
16.7%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
21.3%
Over 65
19.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 903 17.6% 3.2%
15 to 24 858 16.7% 18.8%
25 to 44 1,295 25.2% 1.8%
45 to 64 1,097 21.3% -16.8%
Over 65 991 19.3% 0.8%
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 Bolivar, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.1% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 4.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
0.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 5,083 98.8% -0.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 54 1% 12.5%
Non-citizens 7 0.1% -36.4%
Racial breakdown
White
29.9%
Black or African American
63.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.2%
Other
2.3%
Value Percent
White 1,539 29.9%
Black or African American 3,272 63.6%
Two or more races 214 4.2%
Other 119 2.3%

Households in Bolivar

A peek inside Bolivar households

Bolivar has 2,118 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 54.8% are families, while the remaining 45.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,118
-4.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
957
Family households
1,161
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 957 45.2% -0.6%
Family households 1,161 54.8% -7.3%
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 Bolivar

The housing landscape of Bolivar

Bolivar's housing consists of 2,276 units, with 76% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 6.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,276
-8.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,731 76%
2 units 128 5.6%
3 or 4 units 86 3.8%
5 to 9 units 48 2.1%
10 to 19 units 87 3.8%
20 to 49 units 27 1.2%
50 or more units 15 0.7%
Mobile home 154 6.8%
Homes built since 2020
0
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Bolivar

In Bolivar, the median construction year is 1981. About 0.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.9% 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 13 0.6% -23.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 135 5.9% -48.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 195 8.6% -37.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 410 18% -6.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 353 15.5% 24.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 550 24.2% 8.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 428 18.8% -21.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 192 8.4% 39.1%
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.

Bolivar occupancy rates

Out of the 2,118 occupied housing units in Bolivar, 57.1% are owner-occupied, while 42.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,118
-4.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
909
Owner occupied
1,209
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 909 42.9% -5.7%
Owner occupied 1,209 57.1% -3.4%
Unoccupied housing units
6.9%
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.

Bolivar housing costs

Housing costs in Bolivar come to a median of $874 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $808.

Median housing costs per month
$874/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 Bolivar
$808/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 Bolivar

Bolivar education at a glance

About 53.5% of the population in Bolivar went to high school, while 25.9% pursued college studies. Another 6.4% earned an associate degree and 9.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 51 1.3% -19.1%
High school diploma 2,103 53.5% -6.7%
College diploma 1,018 25.9% -4.0%
Associate degree 251 6.4% 29.4%
Bachelor's degree 391 9.9% 27.4%
Graduate degree 120 3% 0.0%
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 Bolivar

How much people earn in Bolivar

The average annual household income in Bolivar was $54,664 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $39,028, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Bolivar
$54,664/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Bolivar
$39,028/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Bolivar income by age

In Bolivar, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $37,063. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $45,625 overall. Overall, 78.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $37,063 -5.7%
45 - 64 $45,625 5.4%
Over 65 $33,702 0.1%
Above poverty level
3,886
Below poverty level
1,089
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,886 78.1% 2.7%
Below poverty level 1,089 21.9% -13.2%

Average renter income in Bolivar

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Bolivar, their median household income was $24,928 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 38.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,928
Rent-to-income ratio
38.9%
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 Bolivar

Workforce and job types in Bolivar

The job market in Bolivar is powered by 2,284 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 50.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 49.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5.7% run their own businesses, 66.5% are employed by private companies, and 26.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,284
2.8% year-over-year change
White collar
1,162
Blue collar
1,122
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,162 50.9% 13.2%
Blue collar 1,122 49.1% -6.0%
Employer type
Self employees
5.7%
Private companies
66.5%
Governmental workers
26.5%
Not for profit companies
1.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 131 5.7% -17.6%
Private companies 1,519 66.5% -4.1%
Governmental workers 605 26.5% 37.8%
Not for profit companies 29 1.3% -25.6%
Unemployment rate
13.2%
-20.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Bolivar stands at 13.2%, 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 Bolivar

How people get around in Bolivar

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,873 85.1% -0.5%
Bus or trolleybus 19 0.9% -65.5%
Bicycle 14 0.6% N/A
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 Bolivar by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38008 9,057 3,691 $43,789 $61,753

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Bolivar demographics 

What is the total population of Bolivar?

Bolivar has a total population of 5,144 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 -0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Bolivar?

The gender ratio in Bolivar is as follows:
  • 55.8% males (2,872 residents)
  • 44.2% females (2,272 residents)

What is the median age in Bolivar?

The median age in Bolivar is 34.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Bolivar?

The age distribution in Bolivar is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.6% (903 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.7% (858 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (1,295 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 21.3% (1,097 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.3% (991 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Bolivar?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Bolivar is as follows:
  • White: 29.9% (1,539 residents)
  • Black or African American: 63.6% (3,272 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.2% (214 residents)
  • Other: 2.3% (119 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Bolivar.

How many housing units are there in Bolivar?

There are 2,276 housing units in Bolivar, reflecting a -8.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Bolivar has a total of 2,118 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Bolivar?

Bolivar has a median household income of $39,028, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 86.8% in Bolivar, with a workforce of 2,284 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 50.9% (1,162 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 49.1% (1,122 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5.7% (131 residents)
  • Private companies: 66.5% (1,519 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 26.5% (605 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 1.3% (29 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