Perry County Public RecordsTennessee

As of 2022, Perry County, TN, has an estimated population of about 8,140. The median age is 45.6 years, with roughly 49% male and 51% female residents. The racial composition is predominantly White (93.8%), followed by Black or African American (2.5%), Native American (0.4%), Asian (0.2%), and Hispanic or Latino of any race (2.2%). The population skews older than the state average, with about 22% aged 65 or older.

Perry County, TN, has two public schools—Perry County High School and Linden Middle/Elementary—serving around 940 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 88%. Only about 9% of adults aged 25+ hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. State test scores fall below the Tennessee average, with a proficiency rate of about 20% in math and 25% in reading. School safety measures include resource officers and security protocols. Educational programs include early college dual enrollment and vocational training. Adult education is offered through the Wayne County Adult Education Center, supporting GED completion.

As of 2023, Perry County, TN, had an unemployment rate of about 5.3%. Major industries include manufacturing (22%), health care and social assistance (18%), and retail trade (10%). The largest occupational groups are production (17%) and office/administrative support (14%). Around 76% of employed residents commute outside the county for work, with an average commute time of 27 minutes. Many commute to neighboring counties like Hickman and Wayne for employment.

Perry County, TN, has a homeownership rate of approximately 75%, with median home values around $132,000 as of 2023. Rental units, comprising about 25% of housing, have median rents near $735/month. Property values have risen about 10% over the past year. The housing stock consists mainly of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and a few apartment complexes, especially in Linden and Lobelville. Property taxes are low, averaging $450 per $100,000 of assessed value. Neighborhoods are mostly rural or small-town in character, offering affordable options compared to state and national averages.

As of 2024, Perry County, TN has approximately 5,450 registered voters. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, primarily at four polling locations, including Lobelville and Linden. In the 2020 presidential election, Perry County voted 77% Republican and 22% Democrat. The Perry County Election Commission administers elections, facing challenges like limited polling staff and rural access. Local political activity is dominated by the Republican Party. Key issues include rural healthcare, jobs, and infrastructure. Voter turnout in recent major elections averages 60%.

Perry County, TN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. According to the latest FBI data, the county reported approximately 150 total crimes in 2022, with violent crimes comprising less than 10% of incidents. The property crime rate stands at around 12 per 1,000 residents, while the violent crime rate is 1 per 1,000. Law enforcement actively encourages community reporting, contributing to consistent crime tracking and quick response. Overall, Perry County is considered a safe, rural community with below-average crime statistics.