Education, Employment and Housing

Hardin County, TN operates 9 public schools, including Hardin County High School, and serves about 3,800 students. Around 86% of adults have a high school diploma, while 13% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district's average graduation rate is 92%. Schools score moderately on statewide assessments, with Hardin County High’s average ACT score at 19.3. School safety measures include resource officers and security protocols. Educational programs feature dual enrollment, vocational training, and special education. Adult education is supported through GED and workforce training programs offered in partnership with local institutions.

As of 2022, Hardin County, TN, had an employment rate of approximately 54.6%. Major industries include manufacturing (24.5%), health care and social assistance (18.3%), and retail trade (13.7%). The predominant occupation types are production (16.4%), office and administrative support (12.8%), and sales (9.6%). Roughly 80.1% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 22.5 minutes; 39.7% work outside the county. Major employment centers are Savannah and nearby counties such as McNairy and Wayne.

Hardin County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $150,000 in 2023. Rental rates average $900 monthly. The housing market has seen steady growth, with a 7% price increase year-over-year. Most homes are single-family residences, particularly in neighborhoods like Savannah and Counce. Property taxes are favorable, with a median rate of roughly 0.58%, translating to around $870 annually on a $150,000 home. The area attracts residents with affordable living and a mix of small-town and rural charm.

Demographics

As of 2022, Hardin County, TN, has a population of approximately 26,800. The median age is about 44.6 years, with 21.3% under 18 and 21.2% aged 65 or older. The gender split is nearly even, with 50.5% female and 49.5% male. The racial makeup is predominantly White at 91.2%, followed by Black or African American at 4.8%, two or more races at 3%, Hispanic or Latino at 1.8%, and other groups making up the remainder.

Elections

Hardin County, TN has about 17,400 registered voters as of 2024. The Hardin County Election Commission oversees elections, including primaries, general, and municipal elections. In the 2020 presidential race, turnout was 63%, with 80% voting Republican and 19% Democrat. There are 15 polling locations, including the Hardin County Courthouse. Local issues often involve education funding and infrastructure. The Republican Party dominates, with limited Democratic representation. Voter registration is open year-round, requiring photo ID.

County Crime & Safety

Hardin County, TN, reported a crime rate of 35.25 per 1,000 residents in 2022, higher than the national average. According to recent statistics, property crime—such as burglary and theft—remains the most common, while violent crime incidents, including assault, were reported at a rate of 4.2 per 1,000 residents. The Hardin County Sheriff’s Office emphasizes community reporting and safety awareness, with an annual average of 750 criminal offenses. Efforts to improve safety have included increased patrols and public crime reporting initiatives.