Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Bradley County, TN, had a population of 108,620. The median age is about 39 years. Females make up 51.3% and males 48.7% of residents. The racial composition is 89.2% White, 3.8% Black or African American, 2.1% two or more races, 1.2% Asian, and 0.3% Native American. Hispanic or Latino residents constitute 5.5% of the population.

Education, Employment and Housing

Bradley County, TN, has 23 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving around 11,000 students. Approximately 83% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 20% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. The average public school rating is 6/10 (GreatSchools). School safety is a priority, with resource officers present in all schools. Educational programs include Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and vocational courses. Cleveland State Community College also offers local adult education and workforce training programs, enhancing post-secondary opportunities.

As of 2023, Bradley County, TN has an employment rate of approximately 60.4%. Major industries include manufacturing (27%), health care and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (10%). The most common occupations are production (16%), office and administrative support (12%), and sales (10%). The average commute time is about 21 minutes, with 84% of workers commuting by car. Most employed residents work within Bradley County, while around 14% commute to neighboring Hamilton County, primarily for jobs in Chattanooga.

Bradley County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 68%, with median home values around $230,000 as of 2023. Median rent is approximately $1,200 per month. The local market has seen property values rise by roughly 8% year-over-year. Housing options range from single-family homes in neighborhoods like Cleveland and Charleston to newer developments, apartments, and townhomes. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $650 per $100,000 of assessed value. Neighborhoods offer a mix of suburban and rural living, drawing families and professionals.

Elections

Bradley County, TN, had 57,837 registered voters in 2023. Elections held include local, state, and federal contests, with Republicans dominating recent results—Donald Trump won 74.4% of county votes in the 2020 presidential election. Major polling locations include Bradley County Election Commission and several local schools. Key issues involve education funding and infrastructure. The county is administered by the Bradley County Election Commission, comprising five members. Both Democratic and Republican parties are present, but the county leans heavily Republican. Early voting and absentee ballots are available to eligible voters.

County Crime & Safety

Bradley County, TN, reports a crime rate slightly higher than the national average, with a total crime rate of approximately 36 per 1,000 residents. In 2023, there were around 2,800 reported crimes, including 2,100 property crimes (theft, burglary) and 700 violent crimes (assault, robbery). Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting to improve safety, reflected in a clearance rate of roughly 25%. While violent crimes are lower than state averages, property crimes remain a concern, prompting increased patrols and neighborhood watch programs across Cleveland and surrounding areas.