Van Buren County Public RecordsTennessee

Van Buren County, TN, with 3,256 registered voters as of 2022, conducts elections for local, state, and federal offices. The 2020 presidential election saw 81% support Republican candidates. Four polling locations, including Spencer City Hall, facilitate voting. Key issues include education funding and infrastructure. Elections are administered by the Van Buren County Election Commission. Major active parties are Republican and Democratic, with Republicans dominating recent results. Voter turnout averages 62%.

As of the 2020 Census, Van Buren County, TN had a population of 5,546. The median age was 45.4 years, with approximately 16.7% under 18 and 21.3% 65 or older. The gender distribution was nearly equal: 50.2% male and 49.8% female. The county was predominantly White (94.6%), with 0.7% Black or African American, 1.2% Native American, 0.7% Asian, 0.1% Pacific Islander, 0.7% other races, and 2.0% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Van Buren County, TN, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 100 total offenses, with property crimes such as burglary and theft constituting the majority—around 70 cases. Violent crimes are infrequent, with under 10 reported incidents annually. The county's crime rate stands at about 11.4 per 1,000 residents, well below Tennessee’s average of 23.4. Local law enforcement emphasizes community engagement and prompt reporting, resulting in a swift response time and increased safety for the county’s approximately 5,600 residents.

Van Buren County, TN, has 3 public schools, including 1 high school. About 77% of adults have a high school diploma, but only 11% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. The district’s average test scores are below the state average, with a math proficiency rate around 28% and reading at 33%. School safety incidents are rare, and programs include vocational training and dual-enrollment with community colleges. Adult education options are offered through local initiatives.

As of early 2024, Van Buren County, TN has an estimated employment rate of 54.2%. Key industries include manufacturing (21%), health care and social assistance (17%), and retail trade (12%). The top occupation types are production (18%), office/administrative support (15%), and sales (10%). About 68% of residents commute outside the county for work, with an average commute time of 34 minutes. Major employment locations include neighboring counties such as Warren and White.

Van Buren County, TN, has a homeownership rate of around 81%, with a median property value near $134,000 (2022). Typical monthly rents average $775. The real estate market shows slow appreciation, with a 3% increase year-over-year. Housing primarily consists of single-family homes, with limited apartment complexes. Neighborhoods such as Spencer and Piney offer rural settings and access to natural amenities. Property tax rates are moderate, at approximately $0.99 per $100 assessed value. The area appeals to those seeking affordability and quiet, rural living.