Elections

Giles County, TN, with about 20,000 registered voters for the 2024 cycle, conducts general, primary, and local elections. In the 2020 presidential race, 76% voted Republican, 22% Democrat. Key polling locations include the Giles Agri-Park and local schools. Ballot issues often involve education and infrastructure. The county election commission, with five members, oversees administration. Major parties are Republican and Democrat, with independents making up less than 5% of voters. Voter turnout in recent major elections typically ranges from 55% to 65%. Polls generally open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Election Day.

Demographics

As of 2022, Giles County, TN has a population of approximately 30,300. The median age is about 43.5 years, with 50.5% female and 49.5% male residents. The county is predominantly White (83.8%), followed by Black or African American (10.2%), Hispanic or Latino (3.5%), and smaller percentages of Asian and other races. This reflects a moderately aging, majority White community with growing ethnic diversity.

County Crime & Safety

Giles County, TN, generally reports lower crime rates compared to state averages. As of 2023, the county saw a violent crime rate of 2.8 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 11.9 per 1,000, both below the Tennessee average. The Giles County Sheriff’s Department and local police actively report incidents, emphasizing community policing and neighborhood watch programs. In 2022, a total of 380 crimes were reported, with 45 categorized as violent offenses. Overall, Giles County is considered relatively safe, with proactive safety initiatives and consistent law enforcement activity.

Education, Employment and Housing

Giles County, TN hosts around 14 public schools, including 3 high schools. The graduation rate is approximately 89%, while about 19% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average composite scores, such as the ACT, hover around 19-20. School safety measures include secure campus policies and resource officers. District programs offer Advanced Placement (AP) and dual enrollment options. Career and technical education is available, supporting workforce skills. Adult education is provided through the South Central Tennessee Workforce Alliance and local TCAT campuses, aiming to boost educational attainment and skill development within the county.

As of 2023, Giles County, TN, has an employment rate of approximately 58%. Key industries include Manufacturing (21%), Health Care & Social Assistance (16%), and Retail Trade (12%). The top occupations are Production (15%) and Office & Administrative Support (13%). Most residents (about 77%) commute by car, with an average commute time of 27 minutes. While 72% work within the county, others commute to larger cities such as Columbia and Huntsville.

Giles County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 72%, with median home values around $193,000 as of early 2024. Rental occupancy is approximately 28%, and average monthly rents are near $900. The housing market has seen a moderate value increase of around 4% in the past year. Single-family homes dominate, with some apartments and mobile homes present. Notable neighborhoods include Pulaski, Lynnville, and Minor Hill. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging about $570 annually per $100,000 in assessed value, making Giles County an affordable option within Middle Tennessee.