Elections

Grundy County, TN, has approximately 8,000 registered voters as of 2024. The county conducts local, state, and federal elections, including primaries and general elections. In the 2020 Presidential race, 84% voted Republican, 15% Democrat. Polling locations include Grundy County Courthouse and area schools. Recent issues include education funding and road maintenance. The Grundy County Election Commission administers elections, with major parties being Republican and Democrat. Voter turnout averages around 55%. Registration is open year-round, and both in-person and absentee voting options are available.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Grundy County, TN had a population of 13,529. The median age was approximately 44.7 years, with 49.7% male and 50.3% female residents. The racial makeup was 94.2% White, 1.7% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.1% Asian, and 2.2% Hispanic or Latino. About 20% were under 18, and 19.6% were 65 or older, reflecting an aging demographic and limited diversity.

County Crime & Safety

Grundy County, TN, typically reports higher crime rates than the national average, particularly in property crimes. According to recent FBI statistics, Grundy County's violent crime rate stands at approximately 5.2 per 1,000 residents, while property crime rates reach around 25.1 per 1,000. The most common incidents include burglary and theft. Crime reporting is managed by the Grundy County Sheriff's Office, and community safety initiatives are active. While violent crime is moderately above the state average, residents are advised to remain vigilant and participate in neighborhood watch programs to help improve safety.

Education, Employment and Housing

Grundy County, TN, has 7 public schools (including Grundy County High School), serving approximately 1,850 students. The high school graduation rate is about 84%, but only around 12% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher—well below the state average. School safety initiatives, such as SROs and anti-bullying programs, are in place. Schools score below the state average in state assessments, with a district score of 2 out of 10 from GreatSchools. Career and technical education and adult learning programs aim to improve community educational outcomes.

As of 2022, Grundy County, TN, had an employment rate of approximately 49.6%. Major industries include Manufacturing (16.2%), Health Care & Social Assistance (15.6%), and Retail Trade (12.4%). The most common occupations are Production (16%), Office & Administrative Support (10.7%), and Sales (9.6%). About 68% of the workforce commutes outside the county for work, with the median travel time being 30 minutes. Key employment destinations include Coffee and Hamilton counties.

Grundy County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $110,000 as of 2023. Median gross rent is approximately $650 per month. The area’s housing market has seen modest price growth, with values increasing by roughly 6% year-over-year. Residential options range from single-family homes and cabins to mobile homes, primarily in small towns like Tracy City and Monteagle. Property taxes are relatively low, with a county property tax rate of $2.99 per $100 of assessed value, making Grundy County an affordable housing market in Tennessee.