Cocke County, TN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
36,813
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$48,016/yr
-0.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
17,957
0.4% year-over-year change

Cocke County population

How many people live in Cocke County

Cocke County is home to 36,813 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.9% of Cocke County locals are male, and 51.1% are female.

Total population
36,813
0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.9%
17,995
Female
51.1%
18,818
Value Percent YoY change
Male 17,995 48.9% 1.2%
Female 18,818 51.1% 0.5%
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 Cocke County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 10.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 28.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
10.3%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
28.4%
Over 65
22%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,203 16.8% 0.2%
15 to 24 3,796 10.3% -0.6%
25 to 44 8,251 22.4% 2.9%
45 to 64 10,462 28.4% -0.3%
Over 65 8,101 22% 1.5%
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 Cocke County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2.2% are African American and 0.5% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
0.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 36,208 98.4% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 437 1.2% -20.3%
Non-citizens 168 0.5% 14.3%
Racial breakdown
White
92.8%
Black or African American
2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
0.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.2%
Other
0.8%
Value Percent
White 34,152 92.8%
Black or African American 817 2.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 186 0.5%
Asian 181 0.5%
Two or more races 1,186 3.2%
Other 291 0.8%

Households in Cocke County

A peek inside Cocke County households

Cocke County has 15,509 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.4% are families, while the remaining 33.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,509
2.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,216
Family households
10,293
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,216 33.6% 3.2%
Family households 10,293 66.4% 2.2%
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 Cocke County

The housing landscape of Cocke County

Cocke County's housing consists of 17,957 units, with 62.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.3% 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 28.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
17,957
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 11,268 62.8%
1 unit, attached 51 0.3%
2 units 512 2.8%
3 or 4 units 415 2.3%
5 to 9 units 287 1.6%
10 to 19 units 87 0.5%
20 to 49 units 19 0.1%
50 or more units 28 0.2%
Mobile home 5,085 28.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 205 1.1%
Homes built since 2020
416
58.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Cocke County

In Cocke County, the median construction year is 1987. About 7.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.3% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,304 7.3% 3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 623 3.5% -7.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,166 6.5% 4.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,615 9% -2.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,504 13.9% 1.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,496 13.9% 5.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,780 21% -9.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,745 15.3% 9.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,308 7.3% -5.6%
Built in 2020 or later 416 2.3% 58.2%
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.

Cocke County occupancy rates

Out of the 15,509 occupied housing units in Cocke County, 74.5% are owner-occupied, while 25.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,509
2.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
3,951
Owner occupied
11,558
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 3,951 25.5% -9.4%
Owner occupied 11,558 74.5% 7.4%
Unoccupied housing units
13.6%
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.

Cocke County housing costs

Housing costs in Cocke County come to a median of $646 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $798.

Median housing costs per month
$646/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 Cocke County
$798/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 Cocke County

Cocke County education at a glance

About 55.9% of the population in Cocke County went to high school, while 21% pursued college studies. Another 6% earned an associate degree and 6.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 3.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,836 6.3% -8.2%
High school diploma 16,395 55.9% -1.6%
College diploma 6,162 21% 14.1%
Associate degree 1,766 6% 8.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,032 6.9% -8.1%
Graduate degree 1,122 3.8% 0.2%
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 Cocke County

How much people earn in Cocke County

The average annual household income in Cocke County was $65,218 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 $48,016, reflecting a -0.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Cocke County
$65,218/year
3.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Cocke County
$48,016/year
-0.8% year-over-year change

Cocke County income by age

In Cocke County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,045. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,212 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,471, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,634 in earnings. Overall, 78.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,471 -16.6%
25 - 44 $51,045 -5.3%
45 - 64 $53,212 4.1%
Over 65 $40,634 3.3%
Above poverty level
28,179
Below poverty level
7,742
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 28,179 78.4% -1.3%
Below poverty level 7,742 21.6% 7.8%

Employment in Cocke County

Workforce and job types in Cocke County

The job market in Cocke County is powered by 15,454 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 35.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 72.5% are employed by private companies, and 12.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
15,454
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
9,935
Blue collar
5,519
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,935 64.3% 1.4%
Blue collar 5,519 35.7% 3.9%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
72.5%
Governmental workers
12.9%
Not for profit companies
5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,483 9.6% 8.6%
Private companies 11,206 72.5% 5.2%
Governmental workers 1,987 12.9% -16.3%
Not for profit companies 778 5% 9.1%
Unemployment rate
4.2%
-1.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Cocke County stands at 4.2%, 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 Cocke County

How people get around in Cocke County

Commuting methods vary: 93.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.4% 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 14,286 93.3% 3.5%
Bus or trolleybus 10 0.1% N/A
Motorcycle 12 0.1% 9.1%
Bicycle 20 0.1% N/A
Walk 222 1.4% 16.2%
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 Cocke County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37713 1,425 514 $54,000 $58,539
37722 6,708 2,720 $55,000 $70,125
37727 1,936 856 $47,652 $61,368
37753 917 412 $49,375 $55,370
37821 22,909 9,632 $44,161 $61,149
37843 4,426 2,000 $58,021 $81,440

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FAQs about Cocke County demographics 

What is the total population of Cocke County?

Cocke County has a total population of 36,813 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 +0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Cocke County?

The gender ratio in Cocke County is as follows:
  • 48.9% males (17,995 residents)
  • 51.1% females (18,818 residents)

What is the median age in Cocke County?

The median age in Cocke County is 45.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Cocke County?

The age distribution in Cocke County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (6,203 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.3% (3,796 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (8,251 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.4% (10,462 residents)
  • Over 65: 22% (8,101 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Cocke County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Cocke County is as follows:
  • White: 92.8% (34,152 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.2% (817 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (186 residents)
  • Asian: 0.5% (181 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.2% (1,186 residents)
  • Other: 0.8% (291 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Cocke County.

How many housing units are there in Cocke County?

There are 17,957 housing units in Cocke County, 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 Cocke County and what is the average household size?

Cocke County has a total of 15,509 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Cocke County?

Cocke County has a median household income of $48,016, representing a -0.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Cocke County?

The employment rate is 95.8% in Cocke County, with a workforce of 15,454 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64.3% (9,935 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 35.7% (5,519 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (1,483 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.5% (11,206 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.9% (1,987 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5% (778 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