Bedford County Public RecordsTennessee

Bedford County, TN, has a crime rate slightly above the national average. In 2022, the county reported approximately 2,700 crimes, including 200 violent crimes (such as assault and robbery) and around 2,500 property crimes (theft, burglary, vandalism). The overall crime rate was roughly 35 incidents per 1,000 residents, compared to the state average of 33.7. Law enforcement encourages community reporting, contributing to high clearance rates, and ongoing safety programs aim to reduce incident numbers year-over-year.

As of 2023, Bedford County, TN, has a population of approximately 51,100. The median age is about 37 years. Gender distribution is nearly even, with 49.6% male and 50.4% female. Racially, the county is 73% White, 12% Black or African American, 2% Asian, 0.5% Native American, and about 10% from other races; 18% identify as Hispanic or Latino (of any race), reflecting growing diversity in the region.

Bedford County, TN, had 27,982 registered voters for the 2022 general election. Elections include local, state, and federal races, with around 53% turnout in recent major contests. Major parties are Republican and Democratic; in 2022, Republicans won most county offices. There are 8 regular polling locations, including Shelbyville Central High School. Issues often focus on education funding and agricultural policies. The Bedford County Election Commission administers elections, ensuring compliance and voter access.

Bedford County, TN, features 15 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving around 8,700 students. The high school graduation rate stands at approximately 90%. About 14% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is below the national average. School safety has improved, with security measures implemented district-wide. Average test scores are slightly below the state average. Bedford County Schools offer career and technical education programs and dual enrollment options for advanced students, supporting workforce and college readiness. Adult education programs are available through the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) Shelbyville campus.

As of 2023, Bedford County, TN, has an employment rate of approximately 60.5%. Leading industries include manufacturing (22%), retail trade (13%), healthcare and social assistance (12%), and educational services (10%). The most common occupation types are production (18%), office and administrative support (13%), and sales (9%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 25 minutes. Major employment centers are Shelbyville and surrounding nearby counties, with 31% of residents working outside the county.

Bedford County, TN has a homeownership rate of about 70%, with a median home value near $230,000 in 2024, reflecting an 8% annual increase. Median rent is around $1,100/month. Housing types include single-family homes, townhouses, and some mobile homes, with growing new developments in areas like Shelbyville and Wartrace. Neighborhoods range from rural farmland to suburban subdivisions. Property tax rates are approximately $2.31 per $100 assessed value, making taxes relatively affordable compared to state averages. The housing market is competitive, driven by population growth and proximity to Nashville.