Smith County Public RecordsTennessee

As of the 2020 Census, Smith County, TN, had a population of 19,904. The median age was 42.9 years, with approximately 50.1% male and 49.9% female residents. The racial and ethnic makeup was predominantly White (92.1%), followed by Black or African American (2.7%), Hispanic or Latino (2.1%), two or more races (2.6%), and small percentages of other groups. The county maintains a largely rural character with modest population growth.

Smith County, TN, with over 11,000 registered voters as of 2024, conducts elections for federal, state, and local offices, as well as referendums. In the 2020 presidential election, 79% voted Republican, 20% Democrat. The Smith County Election Commission oversees administration and polling at 10 precinct locations, including Carthage and Gordonsville. Key local issues involve education funding and infrastructure. Voter turnout averages 65% in general elections. Major parties are Republican and Democrat, with an active independent presence. Registration requires residency and valid ID, ensuring fair access and representation for the county’s 19,000 residents.

Smith County, TN has 9 public schools, including Smith County High School and Gordonsville High School. About 84% of adults hold at least a high school diploma, while around 13% have a bachelor’s degree or higher. School district-wide average test scores are above the state average at 62%, and school safety ratings are strong, with low incident reports. The county offers various educational programs such as dual enrollment and career technical education. Adult education initiatives include GED and literacy programs to support lifelong learning in the community.

As of 2023, Smith County, TN boasts an employment rate of approximately 61.5%. The largest industries are manufacturing (20.7%), health care and social assistance (16.4%), and retail trade (11.9%). Leading occupations include production (13%), office and administrative support (12.6%), and management (9.2%). Roughly 78% of workers commute outside the county, primarily to Nashville and Wilson County, with an average commute time of 31 minutes.

Smith County, TN, has a homeownership rate of about 74%, with median home values around $210,000 in 2024, reflecting steady growth in recent years. Rental homes comprise about 26% of the market, with median rents near $950/month. Housing types include single-family homes, some apartments, and rural farmhouses. Popular neighborhoods include Carthage, Gordonsville, and South Carthage. Property tax rates average $2.24 per $100 assessed value, below the national median, making Smith County an affordable option for both buyers and renters seeking small-town and rural living.

Smith County, TN, maintains relatively low crime rates compared to state averages. In 2022, the county reported a violent crime rate of 141.6 per 100,000 residents—significantly below the Tennessee average of 595. Property crime is also lower, with 950.2 incidents per 100,000, while the state average is 2,610. Law enforcement agencies, primarily the Smith County Sheriff’s Office, handle incident reporting and encourage community involvement for safety improvements. Recent years show a stable or declining trend in overall crime, enhancing Smith County’s reputation for safety and security.