County Crime & Safety

Franklin County, TN, reports a crime rate higher than the state average, with recent data indicating approximately 34.2 crimes per 1,000 residents annually. Violent crime comprises about 5.1 per 1,000, while property crime is around 29.1 per 1,000. The county's law enforcement promptly updates crime statistics and encourages public reporting through its online portal. Despite ongoing efforts, residents are urged to remain vigilant, as the chance of becoming a victim of any crime is about 1 in 29. Community policing initiatives aim to improve overall safety and reduce future incidents.

Elections

Franklin County, TN, has approximately 31,000 registered voters. The county conducts general, primary, and special elections, with turnout rates around 55% in recent presidential cycles. Major parties include Republicans and Democrats; in 2020, Republicans won nearly 70% of the presidential vote. The Franklin County Election Commission manages elections, maintaining 9 polling locations. Common issues include voter ID requirements and early voting options. Voter registration forms are available online and at the county courthouse. Election results and information are accessible through the county’s website, ensuring transparency and community engagement in the democratic process.

Education, Employment and Housing

Franklin County, TN operates 8 elementary, 2 middle, and 2 high schools, serving about 4,400 students. The high school graduation rate is around 89%. Approximately 20% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average public school math and reading proficiency scores are 32% and 31%, slightly below state averages. Adult education is supported through partnerships with Motlow State Community College. School safety initiatives include modern security measures and resource officer presence. Educational programs feature career and technical education, AP courses, and special education services.

As of 2022, Franklin County, TN, had an employment rate of approximately 58.9%. The leading industries include Manufacturing (19%), Health Care & Social Assistance (18%), and Retail Trade (12%). Most residents are employed in Office & Administrative Support (12%) and Production Occupations (11%). About 80% of workers commute by car, with a mean travel time of 26 minutes. Major employment destinations include Winchester and nearby cities like Tullahoma. Roughly 62% of employed residents work within Franklin County, while the rest commute to neighboring areas.

Franklin County, TN, has a homeownership rate of around 76%, with median home values near $230,000 as of 2023, reflecting steady appreciation. Typical rental prices average $1,000 per month. Housing types range from historic homes in Winchester to lakeside properties near Tims Ford Lake and new builds in suburban neighborhoods like Estill Springs. Neighborhoods are generally family-friendly and feature spacious lots. Property taxes are moderate, averaging $670 per $100,000 of assessed value. The market trend shows balanced growth, with demand driven by affordability, natural amenities, and proximity to the Nashville-Chattanooga corridor.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Franklin County, TN had a population of 42,774. The median age was 44.7 years, with 49.6% male and 50.4% female residents. Racially, the county was 89.4% White, 4.3% Black or African American, 0.5% Asian, 0.3% Native American, and 2.6% Hispanic or Latino. The population under 18 comprised 19.6%, while 21.5% were 65 or older.