Benton County Public RecordsTennessee

As of the 2020 Census, Benton County, TN had a population of approximately 15,864. The median age is 46.6 years, with 22% under 18 and 22% aged 65 or older. The population is 49% male and 51% female. Racially, the county is 94% White, 2% Black, 2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.3% Asian, and about 2% identifying as two or more races or other races.

Benton County, TN, reports a crime rate lower than the state average, with approximately 32.1 crimes per 1,000 residents annually. Violent crime is relatively rare, with about 2.3 incidents per 1,000 residents, while property crime, such as theft and burglary, stands at roughly 29.8 per 1,000. The county sheriff's office actively encourages crime reporting and community safety programs. Overall, Benton County is considered a safer area compared to much of Tennessee, making it a desirable location for families seeking lower crime risk.

Benton County, TN, had 10,996 registered voters as of 2023. Elections include federal, state, and local contests, with recent turnouts around 56% (2020). The county leans Republican—Trump received 77% in the 2020 presidential election. Key polling locations include the Benton County Election Commission Office and community centers in Camden and Big Sandy. Local issues often focus on education and infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Benton County Election Commission, overseen by five bipartisan members. Both Democratic and Republican parties maintain committees, but Republican candidates dominate recent results.

Benton County, TN has around 7 public schools, including 1 high school (Camden Central). Approximately 81% of adults hold a high school diploma, but only about 11% have a bachelor’s degree or higher, according to recent census data. Average school scores are slightly below the state average, with Camden Central High scoring around 4/10 on GreatSchools. The district offers vocational and dual-credit programs, as well as adult education initiatives. School safety measures are in place and the area reports relatively low incidents, contributing to a generally secure learning environment.

As of 2023, Benton County, TN, had an employment rate of approximately 53%. The primary industries are Manufacturing (16%), Health Care & Social Assistance (13%), and Retail Trade (12%). Common occupations include Production (13%), Sales (10%), and Office & Administrative Support (9%). About 78% of workers commute by car, with an average travel time of 24 minutes. Around 61% of residents work outside the county, mainly commuting to neighboring Henry and Carroll counties for employment opportunities.

Benton County, TN has a homeownership rate of around 76%, with median home values near $150,000 in 2023, and median gross rent about $715 per month. The area mostly features single-family homes, with some mobile homes and small apartment complexes. Property values have risen by about 10% over the past year, reflecting steady demand. Notable neighborhoods include Camden and Big Sandy, offering rural and small-town living. The county’s property tax rate is approximately $1.68 per $100 assessed value, making homeownership relatively affordable compared to state and national averages.