Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Henderson County, TN, had a population of 27,842. The median age was 43.2 years. The gender distribution was approximately 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the population was 85.5% White, 10.6% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 1.7% identifying as two or more races; 2.5% were Hispanic or Latino of any race.

County Crime & Safety

Henderson County, TN, reports a crime rate of 21.73 per 1,000 residents annually. Property crimes make up the majority, with an average of 361 thefts and 104 burglaries reported yearly. Violent crime remains low, at about 2.1 per 1,000 residents—translating to roughly 58 cases annually, including assaults and robberies. Law enforcement encourages public reporting and engagement, helping sustain a crime clearance rate above 30%. Overall, Henderson County’s crime rate is lower than the national average, maintaining a moderate safety profile.

Elections

Henderson County, TN, has approximately 18,000 registered voters. The County Election Commission administers elections including federal, state, county, and municipal races, with recent turnout rates around 55%. Polling locations include Lexington Civic Center and Scotts Hill City Hall. In 2020, Republican candidates received about 77% of the vote. Voter issues include access to early voting and absentee ballots. Administration is overseen by a five-member bipartisan commission; party activity is dominated by Republicans, with Democrats holding minor positions. For information, visit www.hendersoncountytn.gov/elections.

Education, Employment and Housing

Henderson County, TN, hosts 9 public schools, including Lexington High and Scotts Hill High. About 82% of residents hold a high school diploma, while 13% have a bachelor's degree or higher. Average school ratings hover around 6/10, according to GreatSchools. The district offers career and technical education, dual enrollment, and special education programs. School safety is prioritized, with security staff present at most campuses. Adult education is available through Tennessee Adult Education centers, serving approximately 150 participants annually. Graduation rates reach 92%, reflecting the county's commitment to educational success.

As of 2023, Henderson County, TN has an employment rate of approximately 54.5%. Major industries include manufacturing (23.1%), health care and social assistance (20.4%), and retail trade (10.6%). Occupation types are led by production (17.5%), office and administrative support (14.0%), and management (8.9%). About 78% of residents commute by car, with an average commute time of 25.4 minutes; around 69% work within Henderson County, while others travel to neighboring counties such as Madison. These figures reflect the region’s strong manufacturing and healthcare sectors.

Henderson County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 74%, with a median home value of approximately $139,000 (2022 ACS). Median gross rent is around $750 per month. The housing market trends upward, with values rising steadily over the past five years. Housing types range from single-family homes to some mobile homes and apartments, mainly in Lexington and Scotts Hill neighborhoods. Property tax rates are about $1.87 per $100 assessed value, making local taxes relatively affordable. Henderson County offers small-town living with diverse housing options and accessible prices compared to state averages.