Polk County Public RecordsTennessee

Polk County, TN, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with about 17.2 crimes per 1,000 residents annually. Property crime is more prevalent, accounting for roughly 88% of reported incidents, while violent crime represents around 12%. In 2022, the county reported approximately 105 property crimes and 14 violent crimes. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office manages crime reporting and prevention efforts, contributing to a steady decline in overall crime rates in recent years. Law enforcement presence and community programs continue to enhance safety and support local residents.

As of the 2020 Census, Polk County, TN had a population of 17,544. The median age was 46.3 years, with 19.2% under 18 and 21.8% aged 65 or older. Gender distribution was approximately 50.5% male and 49.5% female. Racially, the county was 94.5% White, 1% Black or African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 2.8% Hispanic or Latino.

Polk County, TN had 11,305 registered voters as of 2022. Residents vote in local, state, and federal elections, with recent turnout at about 57%. Major parties represented are Republican and Democratic. In the 2020 presidential race, 82% voted Republican, 17% Democrat. Polling locations include Benton, Ducktown, and Copperhill. Key local issues involve infrastructure and education funding. Elections are administered by the Polk County Election Commission, located in Benton. Early voting and absentee options are available, with several polling stations across the county to ensure accessibility for all voters during elections.

Polk County, TN, has 6 public schools, including 2 high schools. The high school graduation rate is approximately 89%. About 16% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, below the national average. Schools score around 6/10 on GreatSchools ratings, indicating average performance. Polk County schools offer career and technical education programs, and adult education is available through regional centers. School safety measures are in place, with a reported incident rate below the state average.

As of 2023, Polk County, TN had an employment rate of approximately 49%, with a civilian labor force of about 7,000. The leading industries include manufacturing (23%), health care and social assistance (14%), and retail trade (13%). Most employed residents worked in production (18%), office/administrative (12%), and sales (10%) occupations. Around 85% of workers commute out of the county for employment, with the average commute time being 30 minutes. The majority travel to neighboring counties such as Bradley and Hamilton for work opportunities.

Polk County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $205,000 as of 2023—up nearly 10% year-over-year. The median rent is approximately $950 monthly. Housing predominantly consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and limited apartments. Popular neighborhoods include Benton and Copperhill, offering rural charm and scenic mountain views. Property taxes are low, averaging $483 per year for a $150,000 home. The area remains attractive for affordable living, but inventory is tight, driving steady price increases.