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

Total population
17,475
-1.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,472/yr
16.0% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,260
0.2% year-over-year change

Haywood County population

How many people live in Haywood County

Haywood County is home to 17,475 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.2% of Haywood County locals are male, and 52.8% are female.

Total population
17,475
-1.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.2%
8,243
Female
52.8%
9,232
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,243 47.2% -2.0%
Female 9,232 52.8% -0.3%
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 Haywood County is 43, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.8% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.9% of the population, while another 25.7% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 21% are 65 or older.

Median age
43.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.8%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
23.9%
45 to 64
25.7%
Over 65
21%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,111 17.8% -2.7%
15 to 24 2,041 11.7% -1.4%
25 to 44 4,171 23.9% 0.1%
45 to 64 4,487 25.7% -3.8%
Over 65 3,665 21% 2.5%
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 Haywood County, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 43.3% of locals are Caucasian, 49% are African American and 0.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 17,105 97.9% -0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 309 1.8% 4.8%
Non-citizens 61 0.4% -69.0%
Racial breakdown
White
43.3%
Black or African American
49%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.1%
Other
4.3%
Value Percent
White 7,568 43.3%
Black or African American 8,561 49%
American Indian and Alaska Native 23 0.1%
Asian 21 0.1%
Two or more races 546 3.1%
Other 756 4.3%

Households in Haywood County

A peek inside Haywood County households

Haywood County has 7,167 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.2% are families, while the remaining 37.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,167
0.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,711
Family households
4,456
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,711 37.8% -1.1%
Family households 4,456 62.2% 0.7%
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 Haywood County

The housing landscape of Haywood County

Haywood County's housing consists of 8,260 units, with 73.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.3% 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 11% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,260
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,105 73.9%
1 unit, attached 273 3.3%
2 units 382 4.6%
3 or 4 units 238 2.9%
5 to 9 units 210 2.5%
10 to 19 units 81 1%
20 to 49 units 21 0.2%
50 or more units 32 0.4%
Mobile home 909 11%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 9 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
26
30.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Haywood County

In Haywood County, the median construction year is 1977. About 7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 576 7% -18.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 450 5.4% 2.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 518 6.3% -10.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,161 14.1% 13.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,041 24.7% -2.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,170 14.2% 7.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 873 10.6% -0.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,059 12.8% 6.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 386 4.7% -11.5%
Built in 2020 or later 26 0.3% 30.0%
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.

Haywood County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,167 occupied housing units in Haywood County, 60.6% are owner-occupied, while 39.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,167
0.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,820
Owner occupied
4,347
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,820 39.4% -7.8%
Owner occupied 4,347 60.6% 5.8%
Unoccupied housing units
13.2%
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.

Haywood County housing costs

Housing costs in Haywood County come to a median of $736 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $762.

Median housing costs per month
$736/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 Haywood County
$762/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 Haywood County

Haywood County education at a glance

About 54.7% of the population in Haywood County went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 5.7% earned an associate degree and 9.4% 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 738 5.4% -2.1%
High school diploma 7,467 54.7% -6.1%
College diploma 2,852 20.9% 9.3%
Associate degree 775 5.7% -0.4%
Bachelor's degree 1,286 9.4% 24.0%
Graduate degree 522 3.8% -14.1%
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 Haywood County

How much people earn in Haywood County

The average annual household income in Haywood County was $67,310 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +10.4% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,472, reflecting a +16% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Haywood County
$67,310/year
10.4% year-over-year change
Median household income in Haywood County
$50,472/year
16.0% year-over-year change

Haywood County income by age

In Haywood County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $51,361. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,998 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $41,811, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,356 in earnings. Overall, 79% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $41,811 30.5%
25 - 44 $51,361 17.5%
45 - 64 $60,998 5.1%
Over 65 $41,356 8.2%
Above poverty level
13,439
Below poverty level
3,565
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,439 79% 0.5%
Below poverty level 3,565 21% -7.0%

Employment in Haywood County

Workforce and job types in Haywood County

The job market in Haywood County is powered by 7,507 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.3% run their own businesses, 64.6% are employed by private companies, and 17.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,507
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
4,922
Blue collar
2,585
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,922 65.6% 7.5%
Blue collar 2,585 34.4% -4.7%
Employer type
Self employees
10.3%
Private companies
64.6%
Governmental workers
17.7%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 770 10.3% 45.0%
Private companies 4,852 64.6% -0.4%
Governmental workers 1,328 17.7% -8.5%
Not for profit companies 557 7.4% 27.2%
Unemployment rate
5.9%
-9.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Haywood County stands at 5.9%, 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 Haywood County

How people get around in Haywood County

In Haywood County, the average commute time is 27 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90% 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.

Commute time
27 min
0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 6,617 90% 2.2%
Walk 154 2.1% 54.0%
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 Haywood County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38006 5,303 2,010 $70,047 $91,746
38012 13,031 5,373 $45,974 $61,799
38037 1,749 730 $51,976 $57,631
38069 3,015 1,269 $60,989 $80,861
38075 6,324 1,288 $44,444 $63,425

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FAQs about Haywood County demographics 

What is the total population of Haywood County?

Haywood County has a total population of 17,475 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 -1.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Haywood County?

The gender ratio in Haywood County is as follows:
  • 47.2% males (8,243 residents)
  • 52.8% females (9,232 residents)

What is the median age in Haywood County?

The median age in Haywood County is 43.2.

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

The age distribution in Haywood County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.8% (3,111 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (2,041 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.9% (4,171 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.7% (4,487 residents)
  • Over 65: 21% (3,665 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Haywood County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Haywood County is as follows:
  • White: 43.3% (7,568 residents)
  • Black or African American: 49% (8,561 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (23 residents)
  • Asian: 0.1% (21 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.1% (546 residents)
  • Other: 4.3% (756 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.9% of the population in Haywood County.

How many housing units are there in Haywood County?

There are 8,260 housing units in Haywood County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Haywood County has a total of 7,167 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Haywood County?

Haywood County has a median household income of $50,472, representing a +16.0% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.1% in Haywood County, with a workforce of 7,507 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.6% (4,922 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.4% (2,585 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.3% (770 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.6% (4,852 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17.7% (1,328 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (557 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