Elections

Hamblen County, TN, has about 39,000 registered voters. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, with recent turnout around 60% for presidential years. The county leans Republican, with GOP candidates typically securing over 70% in major contests (e.g., Trump received 76% in 2020). The Hamblen County Election Commission oversees administration and operates 17 polling locations. Key local issues include education and economic development. Both Republican and Democratic parties are active, though the GOP is dominant. Voter registration is available online, by mail, or in-person at the election office in Morristown.

Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Hamblen County, TN has a population of 64,499. About 49% are male and 51% female; the median age is 41.8 years. The racial and ethnic makeup is approximately 84% White, 5% Black or African American, 1% Asian, and 8% from other races, with Hispanic or Latino residents comprising 13% of the population.

County Crime & Safety

Hamblen County, TN, has a crime rate of 37.09 per 1,000 residents, higher than the national average. The violent crime rate is 5.67 per 1,000, while the property crime rate stands at 31.42 per 1,000. Morristown, the county seat, experiences the majority of reported crimes. The Hamblen County Sheriff’s Office and Morristown Police maintain public reporting for transparency and encourage community participation. Recent years have seen slight fluctuations in crime rates, with ongoing efforts to improve safety through community policing and outreach programs.

Education, Employment and Housing

Hamblen County, TN serves approximately 10,000 students across 18 public schools, including two high schools. About 82% of adults hold a high school diploma, and roughly 16% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. The county’s graduation rate is around 93%. Hamblen schools offer Advanced Placement, career and technical education, and dual-enrollment programs. School safety scores are above the state average, with ongoing safety drills and resource officers in place. Adult education opportunities are available through Walters State Community College and local literacy programs. Test scores generally meet or slightly exceed Tennessee state averages.

As of 2023, Hamblen County, TN, has an employment rate of approximately 59%. The leading industries are manufacturing (28%), healthcare and social assistance (17%), and retail trade (12%). Major occupation types include production (21%), office and administrative support (13%), and sales (10%). Around 80% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 21 minutes. Most employment is located within Morristown, the county seat, though about 24% of residents travel outside the county for work.

Hamblen County, TN, has a homeownership rate of approximately 68%, with a median home value around $195,000 (2023). Rental occupancy is about 32%, and median gross rent is roughly $870 per month. The area’s housing market has seen values rise nearly 9% year-over-year. Housing types include single-family homes, apartments, and some townhomes, with prominent neighborhoods such as Morristown’s West End and College Park. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $1,000 per year for a median-priced home. The market remains affordable compared to national averages, attracting both families and retirees.