Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Henry County, TN, had a population of 32,199. Approximately 50.6% are female and 49.4% are male. The median age is about 45.3 years, with 20% under 18 and 21.8% aged 65 or older. The racial makeup is 86.1% White, 10% Black or African American, 0.4% Asian, 1.5% two or more races, and 2.1% Hispanic or Latino.

County Crime & Safety

Henry County, TN, reports a crime rate lower than the national average, with violent crime at 2.4 and property crime at 19.6 per 1,000 residents, compared to U.S. averages of 4.0 and 19.3, respectively. In 2023, the county saw approximately 68 violent crimes and 540 property crimes reported. The Henry County Sheriff’s Office and Paris Police Department collaborate on community policing and crime prevention initiatives, resulting in increased public safety and timely incident reporting. Continued efforts in neighborhood watch programs and prompt law enforcement responses have contributed to a stable and relatively safe community environment.

Education, Employment and Housing

Henry County, TN, has around 9 public schools, including Henry County High School, serving approximately 3,000 students. About 83% graduate high school, while 14% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. School safety programs are implemented, and the district reports relatively low violence rates. The average school rating is 5/10, per GreatSchools. Adult education programs, such as GED preparation and career training, are offered through the Henry County Adult Learning Center. Schools provide STEM, career-technical, and dual enrollment opportunities, supporting diverse educational pathways for students and adults.

As of early 2024, Henry County, TN, has an unemployment rate of approximately 4.1%. The top employment sectors are manufacturing (21%), health care and social assistance (19%), retail trade (13%), and education services (10%). Major occupations include production (17%), office/administrative support (14%), and sales (11%). About 79% of employed residents work within the county, while 21% commute to neighboring areas, with an average commute time of 22 minutes.

Henry County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 72%, with median home values around $170,000 in 2023. Rental rates average $850 per month. The housing market has seen moderate growth, with property values rising by 5% annually. Most homes are single-family residences, though there are some apartments and manufactured homes. Popular neighborhoods include Paris, Buchanan, and Cottage Grove. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $650 per $100,000 of assessed value. The area offers affordable living, a mix of rural and small-town charm, and access to Kentucky Lake’s recreational amenities.

Elections

Henry County, TN, has around 22,000 registered voters as of 2024. Voters participate in primary, general, and local elections, with presidential turnout exceeding 60%. Key polling locations include the Election Commission office in Paris and local schools. In the 2020 general election, Republicans received about 75% of the vote, while Democrats garnered 24%. Prominent issues include education funding, rural infrastructure, and public safety. The county's Election Commission administers registration and election logistics, while both GOP and Democratic parties maintain active local chapters, ensuring broad civic engagement across the county.