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

Total population
160,624
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$58,807/yr
3.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
76,324
0.5% year-over-year change

Sullivan County population

How many people live in Sullivan County

Sullivan County is home to 160,624 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49% of Sullivan County locals are male, and 51% are female.

Total population
160,624
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49%
78,646
Female
51%
81,978
Value Percent YoY change
Male 78,646 49% 0.7%
Female 81,978 51% 0.5%
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 Sullivan County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.4% are children under 15, then 11.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.5% of the population, while another 27.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22.2% are 65 or older.

Median age
45
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.4%
15 to 24
11.1%
25 to 44
23.5%
45 to 64
27.8%
Over 65
22.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 24,710 15.4% -0.3%
15 to 24 17,834 11.1% 0.4%
25 to 44 37,785 23.5% 1.4%
45 to 64 44,574 27.8% -0.2%
Over 65 35,721 22.2% 1.4%
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 Sullivan County, 97.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 92.4% of locals are Caucasian, 2.1% are African American and 0.8% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.5%
Non-citizens
1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 156,737 97.6% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,360 1.5% 2.7%
Non-citizens 1,527 1% 13.4%
Racial breakdown
White
92.4%
Black or African American
2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.8%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.9%
Other
0.7%
Value Percent
White 148,461 92.4%
Black or African American 3,307 2.1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 178 0.1%
Asian 1,204 0.8%
Two or more races 6,331 3.9%
Other 1,143 0.7%

Households in Sullivan County

A peek inside Sullivan County households

Sullivan County has 68,907 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63% are families, while the remaining 37% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
68,907
0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
25,517
Family households
43,390
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 25,517 37% 1.8%
Family households 43,390 63% 0.1%
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 Sullivan County

The housing landscape of Sullivan County

Sullivan County's housing consists of 76,324 units, with 70.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 10.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
76,324
0.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 53,596 70.2%
1 unit, attached 1,876 2.5%
2 units 1,879 2.5%
3 or 4 units 2,657 3.5%
5 to 9 units 3,702 4.8%
10 to 19 units 2,367 3.1%
20 to 49 units 750 1%
50 or more units 1,483 1.9%
Mobile home 7,937 10.4%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 77 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
705
106.7% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sullivan County

In Sullivan County, the median construction year is 1977. About 7.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.3% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.6% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 5,711 7.5% 10.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 5,529 7.2% -5.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 9,979 13.1% -0.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 8,742 11.4% -6.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 12,021 15.8% 2.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,279 12.2% 2.0%
Built between 1990 and 1999 11,489 15% 0.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 7,871 10.3% -3.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 4,998 6.6% 3.6%
Built in 2020 or later 705 0.9% 106.7%
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.

Sullivan County occupancy rates

Out of the 68,907 occupied housing units in Sullivan County, 72.1% are owner-occupied, while 27.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 9.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
68,907
0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
19,199
Owner occupied
49,708
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 19,199 27.9% 3.7%
Owner occupied 49,708 72.1% -0.4%
Unoccupied housing units
9.7%
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.

Sullivan County housing costs

Housing costs in Sullivan County come to a median of $794 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $889.

Median housing costs per month
$794/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 Sullivan County
$889/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 Sullivan County

Sullivan County education at a glance

About 40.2% of the population in Sullivan County went to high school, while 21.4% pursued college studies. Another 10.1% earned an associate degree and 16.9% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 4,039 3.1% -6.4%
High school diploma 52,286 40.2% 0.6%
College diploma 27,832 21.4% 0.8%
Associate degree 13,179 10.1% 2.2%
Bachelor's degree 22,018 16.9% 1.3%
Graduate degree 10,660 8.2% 1.0%
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 Sullivan County

How much people earn in Sullivan County

The average annual household income in Sullivan County was $82,467 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +2.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $58,807, reflecting a +3.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sullivan County
$82,467/year
2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sullivan County
$58,807/year
3.5% year-over-year change

Sullivan County income by age

In Sullivan County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,413. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $72,083 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $32,825, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $45,032 in earnings. Overall, 84.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $32,825 4.5%
25 - 44 $71,413 6.6%
45 - 64 $72,083 2.6%
Over 65 $45,032 0.9%
Above poverty level
133,115
Below poverty level
23,785
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 133,115 84.8% -0.0%
Below poverty level 23,785 15.2% 3.8%

Employment in Sullivan County

Workforce and job types in Sullivan County

The job market in Sullivan County is powered by 71,040 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.8% run their own businesses, 70% are employed by private companies, and 11.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
71,040
0.8% year-over-year change
White collar
53,969
Blue collar
17,071
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 53,969 76% 1.1%
Blue collar 17,071 24% -0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.8%
Private companies
70%
Governmental workers
11.9%
Not for profit companies
8.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 6,992 9.8% 3.9%
Private companies 49,736 70% -0.4%
Governmental workers 8,467 11.9% 3.7%
Not for profit companies 5,845 8.2% 3.0%
Unemployment rate
5.4%
-10.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sullivan County stands at 5.4%, 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 Sullivan County

How people get around in Sullivan County

In Sullivan County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 60,219 86.7% -1.4%
Taxicab 6 0% -86.4%
Bus or trolleybus 105 0.2% 162.5%
Motorcycle 30 0% -9.1%
Bicycle 23 0% 15.0%
Walk 662 1% -8.4%
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 Sullivan County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
37617 14,744 5,451 $64,764 $92,587
37618 12,548 5,291 $63,851 $79,100
37620 38,494 16,515 $56,128 $80,311
37660 40,996 18,500 $49,191 $71,063
37663 14,230 6,268 $76,007 $93,591
37664 28,267 12,647 $63,653 $88,288
37665 4,741 1,840 $50,991 $63,866
37686 9,495 3,659 $84,264 $110,283
37694 1,729 752 $81,250 $117,147

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FAQs about Sullivan County demographics 

What is the total population of Sullivan County?

Sullivan County has a total population of 160,624 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 +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sullivan County?

The gender ratio in Sullivan County is as follows:
  • 49% males (78,646 residents)
  • 51% females (81,978 residents)

What is the median age in Sullivan County?

The median age in Sullivan County is 45.

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

The age distribution in Sullivan County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.4% (24,710 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.1% (17,834 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.5% (37,785 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.8% (44,574 residents)
  • Over 65: 22.2% (35,721 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sullivan County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sullivan County is as follows:
  • White: 92.4% (148,461 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.1% (3,307 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (178 residents)
  • Asian: 0.8% (1,204 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.9% (6,331 residents)
  • Other: 0.7% (1,143 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.6% of the population in Sullivan County.

How many housing units are there in Sullivan County?

There are 76,324 housing units in Sullivan 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 Sullivan County and what is the average household size?

Sullivan County has a total of 68,907 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sullivan County?

Sullivan County has a median household income of $58,807, representing a +3.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.6% in Sullivan County, with a workforce of 71,040 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76% (53,969 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24% (17,071 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.8% (6,992 residents)
  • Private companies: 70% (49,736 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.9% (8,467 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 8.2% (5,845 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