Tazewell County, VA demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
39,624
-0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income
$47,313/yr
3.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
19,768
-0.2% year-over-year change

Tazewell County population

How many people live in Tazewell County

Tazewell County is home to 39,624 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.4% of Tazewell County locals are male, and 49.6% are female.

Total population
39,624
-0.8% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.4%
19,971
Female
49.6%
19,653
Value Percent YoY change
Male 19,971 50.4% 1.2%
Female 19,653 49.6% -2.7%
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 Tazewell County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16% are children under 15, then 11.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.4% of the population, while another 26.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
45
Age breakdown
Under 15
16%
15 to 24
11.5%
25 to 44
22.4%
45 to 64
26.3%
Over 65
23.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 6,350 16% -1.3%
15 to 24 4,564 11.5% -0.3%
25 to 44 8,895 22.4% -0.8%
45 to 64 10,404 26.3% -2.5%
Over 65 9,411 23.8% 1.3%
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 Tazewell County, 98.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 93.1% of locals are Caucasian, 3.2% are African American and 0.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 2.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.3%
Non-citizens
0.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 38,997 98.4% -0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 529 1.3% -10.0%
Non-citizens 98 0.2% 84.9%
Racial breakdown
White
93.1%
Black or African American
3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.6%
Other
0.5%
Value Percent
White 36,879 93.1%
Black or African American 1,268 3.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 14 0%
Asian 244 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 6 0%
Two or more races 1,010 2.6%
Other 203 0.5%

Households in Tazewell County

A peek inside Tazewell County households

Tazewell County has 16,290 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
16,290
2.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
5,603
Family households
10,687
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 5,603 34.4% 0.1%
Family households 10,687 65.6% 3.2%
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 Tazewell County

The housing landscape of Tazewell County

Tazewell County's housing consists of 19,768 units, with 68.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% 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 21.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
19,768
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 13,606 68.8%
1 unit, attached 384 1.9%
2 units 239 1.2%
3 or 4 units 333 1.7%
5 to 9 units 678 3.4%
10 to 19 units 130 0.7%
20 to 49 units 44 0.2%
50 or more units 60 0.3%
Mobile home 4,291 21.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 3 0%
Homes built since 2020
57
21.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Tazewell County

In Tazewell County, the median construction year is 1975. About 12.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 2,440 12.3% -2.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,508 7.6% -9.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,195 11.1% -2.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,935 9.8% 4.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 3,678 18.6% -4.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,782 14.1% 1.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,628 13.3% 1.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,571 8% 3.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 974 4.9% 18.9%
Built in 2020 or later 57 0.3% 21.3%
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.

Tazewell County occupancy rates

Out of the 16,290 occupied housing units in Tazewell County, 74.4% are owner-occupied, while 25.6% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 17.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
16,290
2.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,167
Owner occupied
12,123
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,167 25.6% -3.1%
Owner occupied 12,123 74.4% 4.0%
Unoccupied housing units
17.6%
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.

Tazewell County housing costs

Housing costs in Tazewell County come to a median of $661 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $795.

Median housing costs per month
$661/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 Tazewell County
$795/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 Tazewell County

Tazewell County education at a glance

About 47.5% of the population in Tazewell County went to high school, while 21.8% pursued college studies. Another 10.3% earned an associate degree and 10.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,485 4.7% -13.5%
High school diploma 15,069 47.5% -1.7%
College diploma 6,918 21.8% 1.9%
Associate degree 3,271 10.3% 4.9%
Bachelor's degree 3,316 10.5% -0.2%
Graduate degree 1,650 5.2% -4.1%
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 Tazewell County

How much people earn in Tazewell County

The average annual household income in Tazewell County was $69,710 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 $47,313, reflecting a +3.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Tazewell County
$69,710/year
1.9% year-over-year change
Median household income in Tazewell County
$47,313/year
3.3% year-over-year change

Tazewell County income by age

In Tazewell County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,147. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,327 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $18,125, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,647 in earnings. Overall, 81.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $18,125 61.4%
25 - 44 $71,147 4.8%
45 - 64 $53,327 3.3%
Over 65 $39,647 6.5%
Above poverty level
30,648
Below poverty level
6,939
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 30,648 81.5% 0.1%
Below poverty level 6,939 18.5% -5.1%

Employment in Tazewell County

Workforce and job types in Tazewell County

The job market in Tazewell County is powered by 14,073 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.4% run their own businesses, 68.6% are employed by private companies, and 18.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
14,073
0.3% year-over-year change
White collar
10,041
Blue collar
4,032
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 10,041 71.4% 0.6%
Blue collar 4,032 28.6% -0.4%
Employer type
Self employees
7.4%
Private companies
68.6%
Governmental workers
18.9%
Not for profit companies
5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,049 7.4% -12.2%
Private companies 9,648 68.6% 0.5%
Governmental workers 2,666 18.9% 3.3%
Not for profit companies 710 5% 7.7%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
-20.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Tazewell County stands at 3.8%, 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 Tazewell County

How people get around in Tazewell County

Commuting methods vary: 89.3% 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 12,479 89.3% -1.2%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% -50.0%
Walk 150 1.1% -10.2%
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 Tazewell County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
24604 230 87 $26,733 $30,167
24602 1,213 393 $45,150 $60,712
24605 8,872 3,634 $52,653 $76,834
24314 1,324 594 $85,417 $87,751
24316 46 16 $0 $0
24606 310 118 $0 $13,641
24609 6,923 2,923 $53,958 $73,493
24612 113 88 $19,083 $38,460
24377 569 158 $57,115 $80,633

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FAQs about Tazewell County demographics 

What is the total population of Tazewell County?

Tazewell County has a total population of 39,624 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 -0.8% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Tazewell County?

The gender ratio in Tazewell County is as follows:
  • 50.4% males (19,971 residents)
  • 49.6% females (19,653 residents)

What is the median age in Tazewell County?

The median age in Tazewell County is 45.

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

The age distribution in Tazewell County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16% (6,350 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.5% (4,564 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.4% (8,895 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 26.3% (10,404 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.8% (9,411 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Tazewell County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Tazewell County is as follows:
  • White: 93.1% (36,879 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.2% (1,268 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (14 residents)
  • Asian: 0.6% (244 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (6 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.6% (1,010 residents)
  • Other: 0.5% (203 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.4% of the population in Tazewell County.

How many housing units are there in Tazewell County?

There are 19,768 housing units in Tazewell County, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Tazewell County has a total of 16,290 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Tazewell County?

Tazewell County has a median household income of $47,313, representing a +3.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.2% in Tazewell County, with a workforce of 14,073 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.4% (10,041 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.6% (4,032 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.4% (1,049 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.6% (9,648 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.9% (2,666 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5% (710 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