Sparta, TN demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
4,939
0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,080/yr
13.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,334
0.9% year-over-year change

Sparta population

How many people live in Sparta

Sparta is home to 4,939 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.3% of Sparta locals are male, and 53.7% are female.

Total population
4,939
0.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.3%
2,287
Female
53.7%
2,652
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,287 46.3% -1.9%
Female 2,652 53.7% 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 Sparta is 47, with the population distributed as follows: about 12.6% are children under 15, then 6.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 28.8% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 27% are 65 or older.

Median age
46.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
12.6%
15 to 24
6.5%
25 to 44
28.8%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
27%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 620 12.6% -26.4%
15 to 24 320 6.5% -29.1%
25 to 44 1,421 28.8% 1.6%
45 to 64 1,246 25.2% 9.2%
Over 65 1,332 27% 23.0%
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 Sparta, 97.7% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.7%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.9%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,826 97.7% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 93 1.9% 1.1%
Non-citizens 20 0.4% N/A
Racial breakdown
White
88.6%
Black or African American
3.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
7%
Other
0.6%
Value Percent
White 4,378 88.6%
Black or African American 182 3.7%
Two or more races 347 7%
Other 32 0.6%

Households in Sparta

A peek inside Sparta households

Sparta has 2,159 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 59.6% are families, while the remaining 40.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
2,159
5.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
872
Family households
1,287
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 872 40.4% 19.6%
Family households 1,287 59.6% -2.6%
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 Sparta

The housing landscape of Sparta

Sparta's housing consists of 2,334 units, with 78.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 5.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,334
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,829 78.4%
2 units 71 3%
3 or 4 units 120 5.1%
5 to 9 units 182 7.8%
50 or more units 8 0.3%
Mobile home 124 5.3%
Homes built since 2020
30
200.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sparta

In Sparta, the median construction year is 1968. About 10.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 11% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 2.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 245 10.5% -19.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 256 11% 9.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 273 11.7% 11.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 521 22.3% -8.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 315 13.5% 11.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 135 5.8% 42.1%
Built between 1990 and 1999 419 18% -2.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 68 2.9% -44.7%
Built between 2010 and 2019 72 3.1% 300.0%
Built in 2020 or later 30 1.3% 200.0%
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.

Sparta occupancy rates

Out of the 2,159 occupied housing units in Sparta, 67.5% are owner-occupied, while 32.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 7.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
2,159
5.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
701
Owner occupied
1,458
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 701 32.5% 0.0%
Owner occupied 1,458 67.5% 8.1%
Unoccupied housing units
7.5%
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.

Sparta housing costs

Housing costs in Sparta come to a median of $663 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $731.

Median housing costs per month
$663/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 Sparta
$731/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 Sparta

Sparta education at a glance

About 51.2% of the population in Sparta went to high school, while 19% pursued college studies. Another 7% earned an associate degree and 14.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 161 3.9% -19.1%
High school diploma 2,132 51.2% 1.0%
College diploma 792 19% -4.5%
Associate degree 292 7% 46.7%
Bachelor's degree 598 14.4% 40.4%
Graduate degree 192 4.6% 34.3%
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 Sparta

How much people earn in Sparta

The average annual household income in Sparta was $63,448 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.9% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,080, reflecting a +13.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sparta
$63,448/year
-1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sparta
$50,080/year
13.8% year-over-year change

Sparta income by age

In Sparta, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,066. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $51,425 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $129,000, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $41,106 in earnings. Overall, 85.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $129,000 N/A
25 - 44 $47,066 5.7%
45 - 64 $51,425 -3.9%
Over 65 $41,106 25.7%
Above poverty level
3,989
Below poverty level
667
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 3,989 85.7% 3.0%
Below poverty level 667 14.3% 0.5%

Average renter income in Sparta

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sparta, their median household income was $25,515 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 34.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$25,515
Rent-to-income ratio
34.4%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Sparta

Workforce and job types in Sparta

The job market in Sparta is powered by 1,984 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 4.6% run their own businesses, 69% are employed by private companies, and 14% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
1,984
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
1,381
Blue collar
603
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,381 69.6% 1.2%
Blue collar 603 30.4% -2.7%
Employer type
Self employees
4.6%
Private companies
69%
Governmental workers
14%
Not for profit companies
12.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 92 4.6% -25.2%
Private companies 1,370 69% -2.2%
Governmental workers 278 14% -0.4%
Not for profit companies 244 12.3% 34.1%
Unemployment rate
7.8%
15.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sparta stands at 7.8%, 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 Sparta

How people get around in Sparta

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,814 90.6% -7.7%
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 Sparta by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
38583 25,584 10,341 $54,644 $72,876

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FAQs about Sparta demographics 

What is the total population of Sparta?

Sparta has a total population of 4,939 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 +0.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sparta?

The gender ratio in Sparta is as follows:
  • 46.3% males (2,287 residents)
  • 53.7% females (2,652 residents)

What is the median age in Sparta?

The median age in Sparta is 46.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sparta?

The age distribution in Sparta is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12.6% (620 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 6.5% (320 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 28.8% (1,421 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (1,246 residents)
  • Over 65: 27% (1,332 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sparta?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sparta is as follows:
  • White: 88.6% (4,378 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.7% (182 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7% (347 residents)
  • Other: 0.6% (32 residents)

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

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

How many housing units are there in Sparta?

There are 2,334 housing units in Sparta, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sparta has a total of 2,159 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sparta?

Sparta has a median household income of $50,080, representing a +13.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Sparta?

The employment rate is 92.2% in Sparta, with a workforce of 1,984 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.6% (1,381 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.4% (603 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 4.6% (92 residents)
  • Private companies: 69% (1,370 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14% (278 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 12.3% (244 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