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

Total population
20,389
1.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$66,293/yr
5.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,752
1.2% year-over-year change

Smith County population

How many people live in Smith County

Smith County is home to 20,389 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Smith County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
20,389
1.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
10,295
Female
49.5%
10,094
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,295 50.5% 0.7%
Female 10,094 49.5% 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 Smith County is 41, with the population distributed as follows: about 18% are children under 15, then 11.7% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 28.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
40.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
18%
15 to 24
11.7%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
28.5%
Over 65
16.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,661 18% -1.0%
15 to 24 2,377 11.7% 2.5%
25 to 44 5,139 25.2% 1.9%
45 to 64 5,813 28.5% -0.1%
Over 65 3,399 16.7% 2.4%
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 Smith County, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 90.3% of locals are Caucasian, 1.9% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.2% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 1.3% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1%
Non-citizens
1.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 19,955 97.9% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 200 1% 5.8%
Non-citizens 234 1.2% 6.4%
Racial breakdown
White
90.3%
Black or African American
1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 18,414 90.3%
Black or African American 384 1.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 44 0.2%
Asian 91 0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 39 0.2%
Two or more races 1,150 5.6%
Other 267 1.3%

Households in Smith County

A peek inside Smith County households

Smith County has 7,932 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 70.9% are families, while the remaining 29.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,932
4.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,308
Family households
5,624
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,308 29.1% 9.0%
Family households 5,624 70.9% 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 Smith County

The housing landscape of Smith County

Smith County's housing consists of 8,752 units, with 72.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 18.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,752
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,356 72.6%
1 unit, attached 79 0.9%
2 units 142 1.6%
3 or 4 units 137 1.6%
5 to 9 units 281 3.2%
10 to 19 units 94 1.1%
20 to 49 units 18 0.2%
50 or more units 4 0%
Mobile home 1,641 18.8%
Homes built since 2020
282
110.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Smith County

In Smith County, the median construction year is 1988. About 8.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 14.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 7.9% 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 733 8.4% -6.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 439 5% -7.4%
Built between 1950 and 1959 634 7.2% 14.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 706 8.1% -2.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,229 14% -8.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 805 9.2% -13.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,946 22.2% 1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,289 14.7% 12.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 689 7.9% 7.8%
Built in 2020 or later 282 3.2% 110.5%
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.

Smith County occupancy rates

Out of the 7,932 occupied housing units in Smith County, 76.9% are owner-occupied, while 23.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,932
4.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,832
Owner occupied
6,100
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,832 23.1% -2.0%
Owner occupied 6,100 76.9% 6.1%
Unoccupied housing units
9.4%
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.

Smith County housing costs

Housing costs in Smith County come to a median of $854 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $922.

Median housing costs per month
$854/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 Smith County
$922/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 Smith County

Smith County education at a glance

About 51.9% of the population in Smith County went to high school, while 21.2% pursued college studies. Another 6.6% earned an associate degree and 12% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 475 3% 0.2%
High school diploma 8,211 51.9% 1.3%
College diploma 3,350 21.2% -3.0%
Associate degree 1,036 6.6% 5.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,902 12% 1.2%
Graduate degree 849 5.4% 8.3%
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 Smith County

How much people earn in Smith County

The average annual household income in Smith County was $85,956 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.3% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $66,293, reflecting a +5.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Smith County
$85,956/year
0.3% year-over-year change
Median household income in Smith County
$66,293/year
5.6% year-over-year change

Smith County income by age

In Smith County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $74,878. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $80,823 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $44,750, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $44,292 in earnings. Overall, 90% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $44,750 69.6%
25 - 44 $74,878 14.6%
45 - 64 $80,823 -0.6%
Over 65 $44,292 8.9%
Above poverty level
18,018
Below poverty level
2,007
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,018 90% 4.3%
Below poverty level 2,007 10% -23.8%

Employment in Smith County

Workforce and job types in Smith County

The job market in Smith County is powered by 9,799 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 63.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 36.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 72.4% are employed by private companies, and 16.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,799
4.0% year-over-year change
White collar
6,239
Blue collar
3,560
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,239 63.7% 2.6%
Blue collar 3,560 36.3% 6.7%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
72.4%
Governmental workers
16.2%
Not for profit companies
2.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 829 8.5% -8.2%
Private companies 7,092 72.4% 6.0%
Governmental workers 1,592 16.2% 6.1%
Not for profit companies 286 2.9% -11.2%
Unemployment rate
2.7%
-11.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Smith County stands at 2.7%, 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 Smith County

How people get around in Smith County

Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.2% 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 8,650 89.6% 4.1%
Taxicab 5 0% 0.0%
Walk 17 0.2% -19.1%
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 Smith County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37057 1,016 379 $78,940 $82,899
37145 2,442 1,113 $69,150 $89,107
37151 457 173 $102,168 $136,250
37012 2,118 876 $49,265 $64,359
37030 8,183 3,171 $61,800 $78,633
38552 472 134 $71,250 $74,936
38560 1,432 421 $77,986 $107,116
38563 1,826 840 $50,313 $79,884
38547 2,088 783 $80,843 $91,422
38548 1,154 470 $0 $60,404

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FAQs about Smith County demographics 

What is the total population of Smith County?

Smith County has a total population of 20,389 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 +1.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Smith County?

The gender ratio in Smith County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (10,295 residents)
  • 49.5% females (10,094 residents)

What is the median age in Smith County?

The median age in Smith County is 40.6.

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

The age distribution in Smith County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18% (3,661 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.7% (2,377 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (5,139 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.5% (5,813 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.7% (3,399 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Smith County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Smith County is as follows:
  • White: 90.3% (18,414 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1.9% (384 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (44 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (91 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (39 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (1,150 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (267 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Smith County?

There are 8,752 housing units in Smith County, reflecting a +1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Smith County has a total of 7,932 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Smith County?

Smith County has a median household income of $66,293, representing a +5.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.3% in Smith County, with a workforce of 9,799 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 63.7% (6,239 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 36.3% (3,560 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (829 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.4% (7,092 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.2% (1,592 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 2.9% (286 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