Cleveland, TN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
48,829
1.3% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,559/yr
4.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
20,460
2.8% year-over-year change

Cleveland population

How many people live in Cleveland

Cleveland is home to 48,829 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.3% of Cleveland locals are male, and 51.7% are female.

Total population
48,829
1.3% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.3%
23,589
Female
51.7%
25,240
Value Percent YoY change
Male 23,589 48.3% 3.7%
Female 25,240 51.7% -0.8%
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 Cleveland is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 16.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.4% of the population, while another 22% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
36.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
16.9%
25 to 44
24.4%
45 to 64
22%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,776 18% -3.7%
15 to 24 8,239 16.9% 1.6%
25 to 44 11,903 24.4% 0.2%
45 to 64 10,737 22% 1.6%
Over 65 9,174 18.8% 7.8%
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 Cleveland, 89.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 5.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 77.1% of locals are Caucasian, 7.3% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 8.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
5.3%
Non-citizens
5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 43,797 89.7% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,606 5.3% 0.4%
Non-citizens 2,426 5% 7.7%
Racial breakdown
White
77.1%
Black or African American
7.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
8.3%
Other
4.9%
Value Percent
White 37,635 77.1%
Black or African American 3,548 7.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 55 0.1%
Asian 1,122 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 24 0%
Two or more races 4,034 8.3%
Other 2,411 4.9%

Households in Cleveland

A peek inside Cleveland households

Cleveland has 18,829 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.9% are families, while the remaining 37.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
18,829
2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
6,991
Family households
11,838
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 6,991 37.1% -2.3%
Family households 11,838 62.9% 5.7%
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 Cleveland

The housing landscape of Cleveland

Cleveland's housing consists of 20,460 units, with 55.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.8% 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 3.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
20,460
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,440 55.9%
1 unit, attached 990 4.8%
2 units 1,606 7.8%
3 or 4 units 2,046 10%
5 to 9 units 1,309 6.4%
10 to 19 units 950 4.6%
20 to 49 units 465 2.3%
50 or more units 972 4.8%
Mobile home 662 3.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 20 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
458
188.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cleveland

In Cleveland, the median construction year is 1983. About 5.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.8% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,149 5.6% 6.4%
Built between 1940 and 1949 566 2.8% -3.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,584 7.7% 0.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,526 12.4% -9.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,641 17.8% 5.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,404 11.8% -3.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,817 13.8% -1.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,588 12.6% 23.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,727 13.3% -3.1%
Built in 2020 or later 458 2.2% 188.1%
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.

Cleveland occupancy rates

Out of the 18,829 occupied housing units in Cleveland, 48% are owner-occupied, while 52% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
18,829
2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
9,791
Owner occupied
9,038
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 9,791 52% 7.2%
Owner occupied 9,038 48% -2.0%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
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.

Cleveland housing costs

Housing costs in Cleveland come to a median of $1,044 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,034.

Median housing costs per month
$1,044/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 Cleveland
$1,034/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 Cleveland

Cleveland education at a glance

About 34.8% of the population in Cleveland went to high school, while 26% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 16.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,677 4.3% 5.9%
High school diploma 13,451 34.8% 3.0%
College diploma 10,043 26% 3.0%
Associate degree 3,048 7.9% 13.6%
Bachelor's degree 6,314 16.4% -2.4%
Graduate degree 4,088 10.6% 3.3%
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 Cleveland

How much people earn in Cleveland

The average annual household income in Cleveland was $80,946 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,559, reflecting a +4.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cleveland
$80,946/year
2.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cleveland
$58,559/year
4.8% year-over-year change

Cleveland income by age

In Cleveland, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,682. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $76,882 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $37,375, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,007 in earnings. Overall, 83.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $37,375 20.4%
25 - 44 $68,682 2.4%
45 - 64 $76,882 9.9%
Over 65 $45,007 4.0%
Above poverty level
37,709
Below poverty level
7,475
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 37,709 83.5% 2.5%
Below poverty level 7,475 16.5% -2.7%

Average renter income in Cleveland

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Cleveland, their median household income was $36,716 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 33.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$36,716
Rent-to-income ratio
33.8%
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 Cleveland

Workforce and job types in Cleveland

The job market in Cleveland is powered by 22,185 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 25% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.2% run their own businesses, 64.7% are employed by private companies, and 12.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
22,185
-0.0% year-over-year change
White collar
16,644
Blue collar
5,541
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,644 75% -1.5%
Blue collar 5,541 25% 4.8%
Employer type
Self employees
9.2%
Private companies
64.7%
Governmental workers
12.5%
Not for profit companies
13.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,041 9.2% 2.3%
Private companies 14,362 64.7% -0.5%
Governmental workers 2,776 12.5% -4.1%
Not for profit companies 3,006 13.6% 5.1%
Unemployment rate
6.0%
12.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cleveland stands at 6%, 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 Cleveland

How people get around in Cleveland

Commuting methods vary: 87.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.1% 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 18,928 87.5% -1.4%
Taxicab 21 0.1% -81.9%
Ferryboat 13 0.1% N/A
Bicycle 38 0.2% -39.7%
Walk 463 2.1% -4.5%
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 Cleveland by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37311 30,720 11,767 $47,153 $66,965
37312 36,669 14,225 $78,261 $100,546
37323 31,948 12,059 $68,768 $85,430

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FAQs about Cleveland demographics 

What is the total population of Cleveland?

Cleveland has a total population of 48,829 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 +1.3% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cleveland?

The gender ratio in Cleveland is as follows:
  • 48.3% males (23,589 residents)
  • 51.7% females (25,240 residents)

What is the median age in Cleveland?

The median age in Cleveland is 36.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cleveland?

The age distribution in Cleveland is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (8,776 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16.9% (8,239 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.4% (11,903 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22% (10,737 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (9,174 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cleveland?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cleveland is as follows:
  • White: 77.1% (37,635 residents)
  • Black or African American: 7.3% (3,548 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (55 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (1,122 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (24 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 8.3% (4,034 residents)
  • Other: 4.9% (2,411 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.7% of the population in Cleveland.

How many housing units are there in Cleveland?

There are 20,460 housing units in Cleveland, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Cleveland has a total of 18,829 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cleveland?

Cleveland has a median household income of $58,559, representing a +4.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94% in Cleveland, with a workforce of 22,185 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75% (16,644 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 25% (5,541 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.2% (2,041 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.7% (14,362 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.5% (2,776 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.6% (3,006 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