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

Total population
494,148
1.4% year-over-year change
Median household income
$74,222/yr
3.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
218,661
1.9% year-over-year change

Knox County population

How many people live in Knox County

Knox County is home to 494,148 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Knox County locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
494,148
1.4% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
242,026
Female
51%
252,122
Value Percent YoY change
Male 242,026 49% 1.4%
Female 252,122 51% 1.4%
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 Knox County is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 17.2% are children under 15, then 15.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.8% of the population, while another 24% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
17.2%
15 to 24
15.6%
25 to 44
26.8%
45 to 64
24%
Over 65
16.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 85,032 17.2% 0.6%
15 to 24 77,293 15.6% 1.7%
25 to 44 132,632 26.8% 2.0%
45 to 64 118,799 24% 0.3%
Over 65 80,392 16.3% 2.6%
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 Knox County, 92.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.8% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 80.1% of locals are Caucasian, 8.1% are African American and 2.3% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
92.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.7%
Non-citizens
3.8%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 457,009 92.5% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 18,469 3.7% 5.0%
Non-citizens 18,670 3.8% 5.6%
Racial breakdown
White
80.1%
Black or African American
8.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.3%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 395,602 80.1%
Black or African American 39,839 8.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 747 0.2%
Asian 11,422 2.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 408 0.1%
Two or more races 36,157 7.3%
Other 9,973 2%

Households in Knox County

A peek inside Knox County households

Knox County has 201,146 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.4% are families, while the remaining 39.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
201,146
1.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
79,677
Family households
121,469
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 79,677 39.6% 2.9%
Family households 121,469 60.4% 1.3%
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 Knox County

The housing landscape of Knox County

Knox County's housing consists of 218,661 units, with 65.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.5% 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 3.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
218,661
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 144,045 65.9%
1 unit, attached 12,101 5.5%
2 units 4,684 2.1%
3 or 4 units 6,486 3%
5 to 9 units 10,845 5%
10 to 19 units 14,327 6.6%
20 to 49 units 8,281 3.8%
50 or more units 9,951 4.6%
Mobile home 7,792 3.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 149 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
6,280
74.4% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Knox County

In Knox County, the median construction year is 1985. About 6.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.7% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 14,943 6.8% 3.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 10,315 4.7% -2.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 17,517 8% -0.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 20,723 9.5% -0.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 31,026 14.2% 0.5%
Built between 1980 and 1989 28,183 12.9% 0.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 32,641 14.9% -3.0%
Built between 2000 and 2009 32,892 15% 1.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 24,141 11% 6.1%
Built in 2020 or later 6,280 2.9% 74.4%
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.

Knox County occupancy rates

Out of the 201,146 occupied housing units in Knox County, 65.2% are owner-occupied, while 34.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
201,146
1.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
70,029
Owner occupied
131,117
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 70,029 34.8% 1.3%
Owner occupied 131,117 65.2% 2.3%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
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.

Knox County housing costs

Housing costs in Knox County come to a median of $1,187 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,261.

Median housing costs per month
$1,187/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 Knox County
$1,261/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 Knox County

Knox County education at a glance

About 30% of the population in Knox County went to high school, while 22% pursued college studies. Another 8.3% earned an associate degree and 23.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 14% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 9,560 2.4% -2.2%
High school diploma 117,317 30% 0.5%
College diploma 85,986 22% 0.8%
Associate degree 32,414 8.3% -0.1%
Bachelor's degree 90,858 23.3% 2.9%
Graduate degree 54,495 14% 4.5%
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 Knox County

How much people earn in Knox County

The average annual household income in Knox County was $104,460 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $74,222, reflecting a +3.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Knox County
$104,460/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Knox County
$74,222/year
3.6% year-over-year change

Knox County income by age

In Knox County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $81,342. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $92,324 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $36,934, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $56,033 in earnings. Overall, 87.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $36,934 1.9%
25 - 44 $81,342 5.3%
45 - 64 $92,324 2.3%
Over 65 $56,033 3.5%
Above poverty level
418,217
Below poverty level
58,127
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 418,217 87.8% 1.4%
Below poverty level 58,127 12.2% 0.7%

Employment in Knox County

Workforce and job types in Knox County

The job market in Knox County is powered by 252,207 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 68.3% are employed by private companies, and 14.4% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
252,207
2.3% year-over-year change
White collar
206,905
Blue collar
45,302
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 206,905 82% 2.3%
Blue collar 45,302 18% 2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
68.3%
Governmental workers
14.4%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 21,477 8.5% 1.9%
Private companies 172,265 68.3% 1.6%
Governmental workers 36,330 14.4% 3.4%
Not for profit companies 22,135 8.8% 6.3%
Unemployment rate
3.5%
0.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Knox County stands at 3.5%, 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 Knox County

How people get around in Knox County

Commuting methods vary: 82.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.6% 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 205,029 82.5% 0.3%
Taxicab 502 0.2% 98.4%
Bus or trolleybus 1,115 0.4% -14.0%
Railroad 6 0% -71.4%
Ferryboat 53 0% -7.0%
Motorcycle 44 0% -65.3%
Bicycle 338 0.1% 0.9%
Walk 4,010 1.6% -0.7%
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 Knox County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37849 29,375 11,031 $84,275 $102,447
37871 9,926 3,700 $70,938 $87,287
37902 2,412 1,560 $50,161 $109,790
37909 16,774 7,783 $66,984 $94,132
37912 21,505 10,014 $47,416 $63,427
37914 21,478 9,005 $59,856 $78,628
37721 14,306 5,568 $64,892 $85,365
37754 4,211 1,846 $75,774 $86,638
37764 12,562 4,582 $70,989 $77,377
37806 3,674 1,406 $59,605 $78,939

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FAQs about Knox County demographics 

What is the total population of Knox County?

Knox County has a total population of 494,148 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 Knox County?

The gender ratio in Knox County is as follows:
  • 49% males (242,026 residents)
  • 51% females (252,122 residents)

What is the median age in Knox County?

The median age in Knox County is 37.4.

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

The age distribution in Knox County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 17.2% (85,032 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.6% (77,293 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.8% (132,632 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24% (118,799 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.3% (80,392 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Knox County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Knox County is as follows:
  • White: 80.1% (395,602 residents)
  • Black or African American: 8.1% (39,839 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (747 residents)
  • Asian: 2.3% (11,422 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (408 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.3% (36,157 residents)
  • Other: 2% (9,973 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 92.5% of the population in Knox County.

How many housing units are there in Knox County?

There are 218,661 housing units in Knox County, reflecting a +1.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Knox County has a total of 201,146 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Knox County?

Knox County has a median household income of $74,222, representing a +3.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.5% in Knox County, with a workforce of 252,207 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (206,905 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (45,302 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (21,477 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.3% (172,265 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.4% (36,330 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (22,135 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