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

Total population
24,266
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,538/yr
-1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
11,835
0.8% year-over-year change

Grainger County population

How many people live in Grainger County

Grainger County is home to 24,266 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Grainger County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
24,266
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
12,131
Female
50%
12,135
Value Percent YoY change
Male 12,131 50% 0.2%
Female 12,135 50% 2.6%
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 Grainger County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.8% are children under 15, then 10.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.9% of the population, while another 30% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.5% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.8%
15 to 24
10.8%
25 to 44
21.9%
45 to 64
30%
Over 65
22.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,604 14.8% -4.6%
15 to 24 2,618 10.8% 0.9%
25 to 44 5,307 21.9% -0.9%
45 to 64 7,275 30% 2.5%
Over 65 5,462 22.5% 7.0%
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 Grainger County, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 95.6% of locals are Caucasian, 1.3% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.9% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 0.2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 1.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3%
Non-citizens
0.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,335 96.2% 1.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 717 3% 29.4%
Non-citizens 214 0.9% -21.6%
Racial breakdown
White
95.6%
Black or African American
1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.9%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
1.4%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 23,185 95.6%
Black or African American 324 1.3%
American Indian and Alaska Native 218 0.9%
Asian 43 0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 103 0.4%
Two or more races 346 1.4%
Other 47 0.2%

Households in Grainger County

A peek inside Grainger County households

Grainger County has 9,660 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 67.4% are families, while the remaining 32.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,660
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,146
Family households
6,514
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,146 32.6% -1.4%
Family households 6,514 67.4% 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 Grainger County

The housing landscape of Grainger County

Grainger County's housing consists of 11,835 units, with 63.7% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 30.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
11,835
0.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,543 63.7%
1 unit, attached 70 0.6%
2 units 19 0.2%
3 or 4 units 117 1%
5 to 9 units 143 1.2%
10 to 19 units 125 1.1%
20 to 49 units 20 0.2%
50 or more units 29 0.2%
Mobile home 3,581 30.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 188 1.6%
Homes built since 2020
319
43.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Grainger County

In Grainger County, the median construction year is 1992. About 7.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 17.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 861 7.3% -3.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 178 1.5% -20.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 583 4.9% 10.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 730 6.2% -6.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,307 11% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,680 14.2% 2.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,884 24.4% -0.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,107 17.8% -0.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,186 10% 5.0%
Built in 2020 or later 319 2.7% 43.0%
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.

Grainger County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,660 occupied housing units in Grainger County, 77.1% are owner-occupied, while 22.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,660
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,210
Owner occupied
7,450
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,210 22.9% 8.3%
Owner occupied 7,450 77.1% -1.0%
Unoccupied housing units
18.4%
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.

Grainger County housing costs

Housing costs in Grainger County come to a median of $586 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $746.

Median housing costs per month
$586/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 Grainger County
$746/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 Grainger County

Grainger County education at a glance

About 55.2% of the population in Grainger County went to high school, while 17.8% pursued college studies. Another 7.3% earned an associate degree and 8.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.3% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 864 4.4% -14.8%
High school diploma 10,882 55.2% 5.6%
College diploma 3,511 17.8% -11.0%
Associate degree 1,438 7.3% 17.9%
Bachelor's degree 1,755 8.9% 10.1%
Graduate degree 1,249 6.3% 11.4%
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 Grainger County

How much people earn in Grainger County

The average annual household income in Grainger County was $70,414 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,538, reflecting a -1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Grainger County
$70,414/year
2.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Grainger County
$50,538/year
-1.6% year-over-year change

Grainger County income by age

In Grainger County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,175. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $56,932 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $51,250, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $34,193 in earnings. Overall, 83% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $51,250 5.1%
25 - 44 $61,175 2.0%
45 - 64 $56,932 -2.7%
Over 65 $34,193 -1.5%
Above poverty level
19,848
Below poverty level
4,074
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 19,848 83% 0.6%
Below poverty level 4,074 17% 7.1%

Employment in Grainger County

Workforce and job types in Grainger County

The job market in Grainger County is powered by 10,087 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.6% run their own businesses, 70.8% are employed by private companies, and 13.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
10,087
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
6,416
Blue collar
3,671
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,416 63.6% 3.9%
Blue collar 3,671 36.4% -2.5%
Employer type
Self employees
11.6%
Private companies
70.8%
Governmental workers
13.1%
Not for profit companies
4.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,169 11.6% -12.0%
Private companies 7,146 70.8% 5.9%
Governmental workers 1,318 13.1% -7.0%
Not for profit companies 454 4.5% 0.9%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-8.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Grainger County stands at 4.7%, 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 Grainger County

How people get around in Grainger County

In Grainger County, the average commute time is 32 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
32 min
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,911 90.2% 0.5%
Bicycle 22 0.2% N/A
Walk 48 0.5% 585.7%
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 Grainger County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37848 145 63 $0 $104,981
37861 8,608 3,487 $52,265 $75,381
37881 1,677 739 $37,443 $63,787
37888 3,432 1,261 $45,669 $60,495
37708 6,512 2,828 $42,152 $60,324
37709 4,177 1,521 $75,799 $90,213

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FAQs about Grainger County demographics 

What is the total population of Grainger County?

Grainger County has a total population of 24,266 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 +1.4% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Grainger County?

The gender ratio in Grainger County is as follows:
  • 50% males (12,131 residents)
  • 50% females (12,135 residents)

What is the median age in Grainger County?

The median age in Grainger County is 47.4.

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

The age distribution in Grainger County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.8% (3,604 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.8% (2,618 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.9% (5,307 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 30% (7,275 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.5% (5,462 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Grainger County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Grainger County is as follows:
  • White: 95.6% (23,185 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.3% (324 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.9% (218 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (43 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (103 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 1.4% (346 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (47 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Grainger County.

How many housing units are there in Grainger County?

There are 11,835 housing units in Grainger County, reflecting a +0.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Grainger County has a total of 9,660 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Grainger County?

Grainger County has a median household income of $50,538, representing a -1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.3% in Grainger County, with a workforce of 10,087 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.6% (6,416 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.4% (3,671 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.6% (1,169 residents)
  • Private companies: 70.8% (7,146 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 13.1% (1,318 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.5% (454 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