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

Total population
55,208
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$71,885/yr
8.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
25,680
0.5% year-over-year change

Roane County population

How many people live in Roane County

Roane County is home to 55,208 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.4% of Roane County locals are male, and 50.6% are female.

Total population
55,208
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.4%
27,250
Female
50.6%
27,958
Value Percent YoY change
Male 27,250 49.4% 1.2%
Female 27,958 50.6% 1.8%
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 Roane County is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.1% are children under 15, then 10.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.8% of the population, while another 29.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
47.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.1%
15 to 24
10.6%
25 to 44
21.8%
45 to 64
29.2%
Over 65
23.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 8,351 15.1% 1.2%
15 to 24 5,846 10.6% 3.4%
25 to 44 12,007 21.8% 1.8%
45 to 64 16,140 29.2% 0.5%
Over 65 12,864 23.3% 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 Roane County, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.1% of locals are Caucasian, 2.6% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
0.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 53,950 97.7% 2.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,093 2% -10.5%
Non-citizens 165 0.3% -43.5%
Racial breakdown
White
91.1%
Black or African American
2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 50,301 91.1%
Black or African American 1,409 2.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 153 0.3%
Asian 359 0.6%
Two or more races 2,705 4.9%
Other 281 0.5%

Households in Roane County

A peek inside Roane County households

Roane County has 22,790 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
22,790
1.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,380
Family households
15,410
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,380 32.4% 0.1%
Family households 15,410 67.6% 1.6%
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 Roane County

The housing landscape of Roane County

Roane County's housing consists of 25,680 units, with 76.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.2% 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 12% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
25,680
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 19,643 76.5%
1 unit, attached 565 2.2%
2 units 388 1.5%
3 or 4 units 628 2.4%
5 to 9 units 401 1.6%
10 to 19 units 371 1.4%
20 to 49 units 133 0.5%
50 or more units 338 1.3%
Mobile home 3,084 12%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 129 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
459
50.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Roane County

In Roane County, the median construction year is 1979. About 5.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,366 5.3% -10.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,188 4.6% -4.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 3,322 12.9% 10.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,625 10.2% 6.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,708 18.3% -3.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,465 13.5% 4.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,236 12.6% -10.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,802 14.8% -3.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,509 5.9% 20.4%
Built in 2020 or later 459 1.8% 50.0%
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.

Roane County occupancy rates

Out of the 22,790 occupied housing units in Roane County, 78.1% are owner-occupied, while 21.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 11.3% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
22,790
1.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,989
Owner occupied
17,801
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,989 21.9% -1.1%
Owner occupied 17,801 78.1% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
11.3%
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.

Roane County housing costs

Housing costs in Roane County come to a median of $842 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $785.

Median housing costs per month
$842/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 Roane County
$785/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 Roane County

Roane County education at a glance

About 45.9% of the population in Roane County went to high school, while 21.3% pursued college studies. Another 8.9% earned an associate degree and 12.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,441 3.2% -2.1%
High school diploma 20,599 45.9% 2.5%
College diploma 9,544 21.3% -2.4%
Associate degree 4,000 8.9% 8.7%
Bachelor's degree 5,483 12.2% 1.4%
Graduate degree 3,800 8.5% 1.1%
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 Roane County

How much people earn in Roane County

The average annual household income in Roane County was $94,176 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +9.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $71,885, reflecting a +8.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Roane County
$94,176/year
9.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Roane County
$71,885/year
8.6% year-over-year change

Roane County income by age

In Roane County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $84,170. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $87,289 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $72,152, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,239 in earnings. Overall, 88.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $72,152 29.9%
25 - 44 $84,170 9.2%
45 - 64 $87,289 13.1%
Over 65 $48,239 0.5%
Above poverty level
47,736
Below poverty level
6,366
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 47,736 88.2% 2.5%
Below poverty level 6,366 11.8% -4.5%

Employment in Roane County

Workforce and job types in Roane County

The job market in Roane County is powered by 23,825 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7% run their own businesses, 61.2% are employed by private companies, and 23% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
23,825
3.0% year-over-year change
White collar
17,188
Blue collar
6,637
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 17,188 72.1% 3.3%
Blue collar 6,637 27.9% 2.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7%
Private companies
61.2%
Governmental workers
23%
Not for profit companies
8.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,673 7% -12.6%
Private companies 14,584 61.2% 1.9%
Governmental workers 5,474 23% 9.3%
Not for profit companies 2,094 8.8% 10.7%
Unemployment rate
4.9%
5.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Roane County stands at 4.9%, 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 Roane County

How people get around in Roane County

Commuting methods vary: 88.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.1% 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 20,753 88.9% 3.2%
Taxicab 43 0.2% N/A
Ferryboat 9 0% N/A
Walk 256 1.1% -1.2%
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 Roane County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37854 12,478 5,136 $55,856 $75,601
37880 3,599 1,659 $65,208 $79,008
37748 17,575 7,325 $64,883 $83,749
37763 16,984 6,954 $81,000 $105,518
37771 18,042 7,286 $66,938 $88,049
37774 21,784 9,426 $87,718 $108,389
37830 33,038 14,167 $72,269 $97,132
37840 10,004 3,789 $75,881 $98,140
37846 4,579 1,510 $71,786 $79,553

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FAQs about Roane County demographics 

What is the total population of Roane County?

Roane County has a total population of 55,208 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Roane County?

The gender ratio in Roane County is as follows:
  • 49.4% males (27,250 residents)
  • 50.6% females (27,958 residents)

What is the median age in Roane County?

The median age in Roane County is 47.3.

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

The age distribution in Roane County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.1% (8,351 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.6% (5,846 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.8% (12,007 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.2% (16,140 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.3% (12,864 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Roane County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Roane County is as follows:
  • White: 91.1% (50,301 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.6% (1,409 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (153 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (359 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (2,705 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (281 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.7% of the population in Roane County.

How many housing units are there in Roane County?

There are 25,680 housing units in Roane County, reflecting a +0.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Roane County has a total of 22,790 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Roane County?

Roane County has a median household income of $71,885, representing a +8.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.1% in Roane County, with a workforce of 23,825 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.1% (17,188 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.9% (6,637 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7% (1,673 residents)
  • Private companies: 61.2% (14,584 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 23% (5,474 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.8% (2,094 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