Gatlinburg, TN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
3,663
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$53,475/yr
-7.4% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,830
1.1% year-over-year change

Gatlinburg population

How many people live in Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg is home to 3,663 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 53.9% of Gatlinburg locals are male, and 46.1% are female.

Total population
3,663
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
53.9%
1,973
Female
46.1%
1,690
Value Percent YoY change
Male 1,973 53.9% 0.0%
Female 1,690 46.1% 1.2%
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 Gatlinburg is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 13.7% are children under 15, then 16% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.7% of the population, while another 23.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
42
Age breakdown
Under 15
13.7%
15 to 24
16%
25 to 44
23.7%
45 to 64
23.7%
Over 65
22.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 503 13.7% 5.7%
15 to 24 586 16% 10.2%
25 to 44 867 23.7% 4.1%
45 to 64 869 23.7% -8.8%
Over 65 838 22.9% -1.3%
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 Gatlinburg, 78.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 17.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 72.9% of locals are Caucasian, 1% are African American and 3.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 9.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
78.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.9%
Non-citizens
17.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 2,883 78.7% -4.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 144 3.9% -18.6%
Non-citizens 636 17.4% 38.9%
Racial breakdown
White
72.9%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
3.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
9.4%
Other
12.9%
Value Percent
White 2,669 72.9%
Black or African American 36 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 3 0.1%
Asian 139 3.8%
Two or more races 345 9.4%
Other 471 12.9%

Households in Gatlinburg

A peek inside Gatlinburg households

Gatlinburg has 1,402 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.3% are families, while the remaining 39.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,402
3.8% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
556
Family households
846
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 556 39.7% 8.2%
Family households 846 60.3% 1.1%
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 Gatlinburg

The housing landscape of Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg's housing consists of 4,830 units, with 54.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.2% 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 0.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,830
1.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 2,649 54.8%
1 unit, attached 60 1.2%
2 units 213 4.4%
3 or 4 units 168 3.5%
5 to 9 units 201 4.2%
10 to 19 units 560 11.6%
20 to 49 units 546 11.3%
50 or more units 398 8.2%
Mobile home 35 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
157
36.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gatlinburg

In Gatlinburg, the median construction year is 1987. About 2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1% 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, 11.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 3.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 94 2% 5.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 50 1% -7.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 191 4% -25.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 388 8% 3.7%
Built between 1970 and 1979 754 15.6% 25.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,382 28.6% 7.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 533 11% -26.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 740 15.3% -1.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 541 11.2% 2.3%
Built in 2020 or later 157 3.2% 36.5%
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.

Gatlinburg occupancy rates

Out of the 1,402 occupied housing units in Gatlinburg, 64.4% are owner-occupied, while 35.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 71% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,402
3.8% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
499
Owner occupied
903
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 499 35.6% 10.6%
Owner occupied 903 64.4% 0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
71.0%
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.

Gatlinburg housing costs

Housing costs in Gatlinburg come to a median of $894 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,098.

Median housing costs per month
$894/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 Gatlinburg
$1,098/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 Gatlinburg

Gatlinburg education at a glance

About 33.9% of the population in Gatlinburg went to high school, while 25% pursued college studies. Another 5.4% earned an associate degree and 18.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 11% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 166 6% 36.1%
High school diploma 940 33.9% 6.3%
College diploma 692 25% -6.1%
Associate degree 149 5.4% -4.5%
Bachelor's degree 521 18.8% -11.4%
Graduate degree 305 11% 3.7%
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 Gatlinburg

How much people earn in Gatlinburg

The average annual household income in Gatlinburg was $74,816 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -6.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $53,475, reflecting a -7.4% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gatlinburg
$74,816/year
-6.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gatlinburg
$53,475/year
-7.4% year-over-year change

Gatlinburg income by age

In Gatlinburg, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $50,313. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,625 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $69,318, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $54,474 in earnings. Overall, 86.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $69,318 N/A
25 - 44 $50,313 -9.8%
45 - 64 $65,625 -4.8%
Over 65 $54,474 4.6%
Above poverty level
3,115
Below poverty level
489
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,115 86.4% -1.5%
Below poverty level 489 13.6% 8.9%

Average renter income in Gatlinburg

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Gatlinburg, their median household income was $42,596 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 30.9%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,596
Rent-to-income ratio
30.9%
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 Gatlinburg

Workforce and job types in Gatlinburg

The job market in Gatlinburg is powered by 1,672 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 17.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.2% run their own businesses, 73.1% are employed by private companies, and 11.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,672
-2.7% year-over-year change
White collar
1,386
Blue collar
286
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,386 82.9% 0.2%
Blue collar 286 17.1% -14.9%
Employer type
Self employees
11.2%
Private companies
73.1%
Governmental workers
11.1%
Not for profit companies
4.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 187 11.2% 1.1%
Private companies 1,222 73.1% -4.7%
Governmental workers 185 11.1% 28.5%
Not for profit companies 78 4.7% -27.8%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-22.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gatlinburg stands at 3.6%, 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 Gatlinburg

How people get around in Gatlinburg

Commuting methods vary: 86.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 8.6% 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 1,447 86.5% 10.8%
Bicycle 8 0.5% N/A
Walk 144 8.6% -33.6%
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 Gatlinburg by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37738 4,952 1,874 $57,330 $77,296

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FAQs about Gatlinburg demographics 

What is the total population of Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg has a total population of 3,663 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gatlinburg?

The gender ratio in Gatlinburg is as follows:
  • 53.9% males (1,973 residents)
  • 46.1% females (1,690 residents)

What is the median age in Gatlinburg?

The median age in Gatlinburg is 42.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gatlinburg?

The age distribution in Gatlinburg is as follows:
  • Under 15: 13.7% (503 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 16% (586 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.7% (867 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.7% (869 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.9% (838 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gatlinburg?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gatlinburg is as follows:
  • White: 72.9% (2,669 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (36 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (3 residents)
  • Asian: 3.8% (139 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 9.4% (345 residents)
  • Other: 12.9% (471 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 78.7% of the population in Gatlinburg.

How many housing units are there in Gatlinburg?

There are 4,830 housing units in Gatlinburg, reflecting a +1.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gatlinburg has a total of 1,402 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gatlinburg?

Gatlinburg has a median household income of $53,475, representing a -7.4% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Gatlinburg, with a workforce of 1,672 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82.9% (1,386 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 17.1% (286 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.2% (187 residents)
  • Private companies: 73.1% (1,222 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.1% (185 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.7% (78 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