Elections

Decatur County, Tennessee, has approximately 6,800 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including recent turnout of around 62% for the 2020 general election. Polling locations include Decaturville Municipal Building and Scotts Hill City Hall. Elections are overseen by the Decatur County Election Commission. Major political parties are Republican and Democratic, with Republicans carrying most recent races by a margin of 65–70%. Local issues include infrastructure and education funding. Registration deadlines and sample ballots are available via the Election Commission’s website.

County Crime & Safety

Decatur County, TN, reports relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was about 230 per 100,000 residents, with 4 reported violent crimes and 74 property crimes, according to the TBI. Property crimes, like burglary and theft, remain the most frequent. Law enforcement agencies encourage prompt crime reporting, and increased patrols have contributed to a generally safe environment. The overall crime rate in Decatur County remains below Tennessee’s average of 545 per 100,000, reflecting a safer community atmosphere.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Decatur County, Tennessee, had a population of approximately 11,435. The median age was 46.2 years, with 22% under 18 and 21% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution was nearly even, with 49.2% male and 50.8% female. The racial makeup was predominantly White (93.7%), followed by Black or African American (2.8%), Hispanic or Latino (2.0%), and smaller percentages for other races and multiracial residents.

Education, Employment and Housing

Decatur County, TN, has around 4 public schools, including Riverside High School. The high school graduation rate is approximately 88%, while about 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher (U.S. Census). The average school rating is 6/10 on GreatSchools. Schools offer programs such as dual enrollment and vocational training to enhance college and career readiness. District safety measures include secure campuses and resource officers. Adult education opportunities are available through Tennessee’s online adult education initiatives.

As of 2023, Decatur County, TN, has an employment rate of around 52%. The largest industries are manufacturing (18%), health care and social assistance (16%), and retail trade (13%). Major occupation types include production (22%), office and administrative support (14%), and sales (11%). About 78% of employed residents commute outside the county for work, with a mean travel time of 29 minutes. The primary employment destinations include neighboring Henderson and Madison counties.

Decatur County, TN, boasts a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values near $140,000 (2023). The rental market is smaller, with median rents around $800/month. Housing largely consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and limited apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Parsons and Decaturville. Property values have risen modestly, with a 5% increase over the past year. The county property tax rate is approximately $2.06 per $100 assessed value, offering a low-tax environment. The area is favored for affordability, rural charm, and community-oriented living.