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

Total population
20,959
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,153/yr
9.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
10,155
1.2% year-over-year change

Dekalb County population

How many people live in Dekalb County

Dekalb County is home to 20,959 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.9% of Dekalb County locals are male, and 50.1% are female.

Total population
20,959
2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.9%
10,466
Female
50.1%
10,493
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,466 49.9% 0.5%
Female 10,493 50.1% 3.5%
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 Dekalb County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 11% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 24.6% of the population, while another 27.4% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
11%
25 to 44
24.6%
45 to 64
27.4%
Over 65
18.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,830 18.3% 1.9%
15 to 24 2,303 11% 2.1%
25 to 44 5,160 24.6% 3.5%
45 to 64 5,733 27.4% 0.8%
Over 65 3,933 18.8% 1.8%
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 Dekalb County, 94.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88% of locals are Caucasian, 1.6% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,850 94.7% 2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 318 1.5% -0.3%
Non-citizens 791 3.8% 2.1%
Racial breakdown
White
88%
Black or African American
1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.6%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 18,453 88%
Black or African American 325 1.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 58 0.3%
Asian 231 1.1%
Two or more races 968 4.6%
Other 924 4.4%

Households in Dekalb County

A peek inside Dekalb County households

Dekalb County has 8,652 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.6% are families, while the remaining 32.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
8,652
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,804
Family households
5,848
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,804 32.4% -6.1%
Family households 5,848 67.6% 6.1%
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 Dekalb County

The housing landscape of Dekalb County

Dekalb County's housing consists of 10,155 units, with 77.9% 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 11.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
10,155
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,912 77.9%
1 unit, attached 182 1.8%
2 units 157 1.6%
3 or 4 units 337 3.3%
5 to 9 units 98 1%
10 to 19 units 164 1.6%
20 to 49 units 62 0.6%
50 or more units 40 0.4%
Mobile home 1,191 11.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 12 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
255
100.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dekalb County

In Dekalb County, the median construction year is 1986. About 4.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.5% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 9.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 445 4.4% -0.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 139 1.4% 19.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 523 5.2% 3.2%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,407 13.9% 11.5%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,747 17.2% -19.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,354 13.3% 5.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,504 14.8% -7.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,777 17.5% 2.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,004 9.9% 29.7%
Built in 2020 or later 255 2.5% 100.8%
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.

Dekalb County occupancy rates

Out of the 8,652 occupied housing units in Dekalb County, 72.6% are owner-occupied, while 27.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
8,652
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,370
Owner occupied
6,282
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,370 27.4% -10.4%
Owner occupied 6,282 72.6% 7.4%
Unoccupied housing units
14.8%
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.

Dekalb County housing costs

Housing costs in Dekalb County come to a median of $872 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $839.

Median housing costs per month
$872/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 Dekalb County
$839/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 Dekalb County

Dekalb County education at a glance

About 51.5% of the population in Dekalb County went to high school, while 18.4% pursued college studies. Another 5.9% earned an associate degree and 12.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 730 4.4% -18.8%
High school diploma 8,450 51.5% 0.9%
College diploma 3,010 18.4% 7.4%
Associate degree 965 5.9% 4.8%
Bachelor's degree 2,087 12.7% 3.7%
Graduate degree 1,160 7.1% 11.2%
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 Dekalb County

How much people earn in Dekalb County

The average annual household income in Dekalb County was $71,610 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +7.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,153, reflecting a +9.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dekalb County
$71,610/year
7.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dekalb County
$53,153/year
9.6% year-over-year change

Dekalb County income by age

In Dekalb County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $66,776. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,716 overall. Overall, 81.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $66,776 10.1%
45 - 64 $56,716 7.5%
Over 65 $37,211 2.2%
Above poverty level
16,610
Below poverty level
3,832
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,610 81.2% 5.5%
Below poverty level 3,832 18.8% -10.7%

Employment in Dekalb County

Workforce and job types in Dekalb County

The job market in Dekalb County is powered by 8,913 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 64% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.3% run their own businesses, 64.8% are employed by private companies, and 13.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,913
4.8% year-over-year change
White collar
5,703
Blue collar
3,210
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,703 64% 7.4%
Blue collar 3,210 36% 0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
10.3%
Private companies
64.8%
Governmental workers
13.9%
Not for profit companies
11%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 919 10.3% -7.6%
Private companies 5,779 64.8% 5.0%
Governmental workers 1,237 13.9% 9.6%
Not for profit companies 978 11% 11.4%
Unemployment rate
5.6%
-1.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dekalb County stands at 5.6%, 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 Dekalb County

How people get around in Dekalb County

Commuting methods vary: 91.3% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.9% 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 7,909 91.3% 4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 33 0.4% N/A
Motorcycle 15 0.2% 36.4%
Walk 76 0.9% -49.3%
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 Dekalb County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37059 1,590 606 $49,510 $61,923
37095 1,697 740 $64,792 $79,860
37166 15,731 6,300 $52,797 $64,967
37012 2,118 876 $49,265 $64,359
38567 1,065 424 $100,368 $115,776
38569 390 154 $0 $157,964
38582 1,729 670 $93,333 $98,051
38544 8,175 3,078 $69,823 $83,141

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FAQs about Dekalb County demographics 

What is the total population of Dekalb County?

Dekalb County has a total population of 20,959 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 +2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dekalb County?

The gender ratio in Dekalb County is as follows:
  • 49.9% males (10,466 residents)
  • 50.1% females (10,493 residents)

What is the median age in Dekalb County?

The median age in Dekalb County is 41.9.

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

The age distribution in Dekalb County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (3,830 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11% (2,303 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 24.6% (5,160 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.4% (5,733 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.8% (3,933 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dekalb County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dekalb County is as follows:
  • White: 88% (18,453 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.6% (325 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (58 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (231 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.6% (968 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (924 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.7% of the population in Dekalb County.

How many housing units are there in Dekalb County?

There are 10,155 housing units in Dekalb County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dekalb County has a total of 8,652 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dekalb County?

Dekalb County has a median household income of $53,153, representing a +9.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.4% in Dekalb County, with a workforce of 8,913 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 64% (5,703 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36% (3,210 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.3% (919 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.8% (5,779 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.9% (1,237 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 11% (978 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