Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Washington County, TN, had a population of approximately 133,000. The median age is about 41 years, with 49% male and 51% female residents. Racially, the population is 89% White, 4% Black or African American, 2% Asian, and 2% two or more races. Hispanic or Latino individuals make up about 3% of the population.

Elections

Washington County, TN had about 89,000 registered voters as of 2022. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections, including primaries and general elections. Major parties are Republican and Democratic, with Republicans typically winning over 60% of countywide votes. There are around 25 polling locations overseen by the Washington County Election Commission. Recent issues include property tax rates and school funding. The administration ensures compliance with state voting laws and manages early voting and absentee ballots. For the 2020 presidential election, turnout in the county was approximately 75%.

County Crime & Safety

Washington County, TN, maintains a relatively moderate crime rate compared to state averages. In 2022, the violent crime rate was approximately 2.9 incidents per 1,000 residents, lower than the Tennessee average of 6.7. Property crime stood at 18.8 per 1,000, also below the state’s 22.8. Local agencies, including the Johnson City Police Department, actively report and address crime, ensuring transparency and timely updates for residents. Continuous cooperation with community watch programs further supports safety efforts, contributing to Washington County’s reputation as a relatively secure area within the state.

Education, Employment and Housing

Washington County, TN, has 16 public schools, including 4 high schools. About 90% of adults hold a high school diploma, and 31% have a bachelor's degree or higher. The district’s average graduation rate is 91%, with several schools scoring above state averages in math and reading. School safety measures include SROs and routine drills. Adult education centers offer GED and technical programs. Advanced educational initiatives include AP, dual enrollment, and career-technical pathways, ensuring diverse opportunities for students.

As of 2023, Washington County, TN, has an unemployment rate of approximately 3.6%. The top employment sectors include health care and social assistance (22%), retail trade (13%), and education services (11%). Most workers are in office and administrative support (14%), sales (11%), and health-related occupations (10%). About 82% of residents commute by car, with an average one-way commute time of 22 minutes. The majority work within the county, with Johnson City serving as the primary employment hub and some commuting to nearby counties like Sullivan and Carter.

Washington County, TN, features a homeownership rate of about 70%, with median home values around $250,000 as of 2023. The rental market is robust, median rents average $1,100 per month. Housing types range from historic Craftsman homes in Jonesborough to modern subdivisions and rural properties. Popular neighborhoods include Johnson City’s Tree Streets and Gray. The county’s property tax rate is approximately $2.14 per $100 of assessed value, supporting affordable living. The real estate market has seen steady annual appreciation of 5–7% in recent years, driven by regional growth and strong demand for both homes and rentals.