Jefferson City, TN
Population 8,472 · Tennessee
About Jefferson City, TN
Jefferson City is a small town located in Tennessee with a population of 8,472 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $53,819 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 31.4 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Jefferson City features a median home value of $205,000, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. This positions Jefferson City in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $832, 28% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 3,543 total housing units, 41% are owner-occupied (1,312 units) and 59% are renter-occupied (1,888 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Jefferson City shows an unemployment rate of 8.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 21.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Jefferson City have an average one-way commute time of 26.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.5% of Jefferson City residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 7.5% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, and 0.1% Asian residents, with 4.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Jefferson City, TN
Compared to national averages, Jefferson City has a median household income of $53,819 (28% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $205,000, which is 16% below the national median. Monthly rent at $832 is 28% below the US average of $1,163. Within Tennessee, Jefferson City's income is 14% below the state average of $62,849, and home values are 4% below the state median of $214,371.
Why Live in Jefferson City, TN?
Jefferson City offers affordable housing with a median home value of $205,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $832/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($53,819) that falls below the national average. However, Jefferson City’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Jefferson City has a population of 8,472 with a median age of 31.4 years. Compare Jefferson City with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Tennessee.
Similar Cities Near Jefferson City
Cities in Tennessee with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Harrison | 8,446 | $89,753 | $254,600 | Compare |
| Covington | 8,612 | $43,512 | $163,900 | Compare |
| Pulaski | 8,305 | $45,420 | $168,200 | Compare |
| Milan | 8,194 | $45,608 | $121,400 | Compare |
| Bloomingdale | 8,840 | $50,408 | $141,800 | Compare |
| Signal Mountain | 8,861 | $139,714 | $482,300 | Compare |
| Lexington | 7,943 | $49,253 | $173,200 | Compare |
| Thompson's Station | 7,855 | $122,139 | $598,200 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Tennessee
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Jefferson City With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Jefferson City
What is the population of Jefferson City, TN?
The population of Jefferson City, TN is 8,472 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Tennessee.
What is the median household income in Jefferson City?
The median household income in Jefferson City, TN is $53,819 per year, which is 28% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Jefferson City?
The median home value in Jefferson City, TN is $205,000, which is 16% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in Jefferson City?
The median monthly rent in Jefferson City, TN is $832, which is 28% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Jefferson City?
The unemployment rate in Jefferson City, TN is 8.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Jefferson City, TN a good place to live?
Jefferson City offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 8,472 and a median age of 31.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Jefferson City, TN?
23.5% of residents in Jefferson City aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Jefferson City?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Jefferson City, TN: median home value is $205,000 (16% below national), median rent is $832/month, and median household income is $53,819. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.8x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in Jefferson City?
The poverty rate in Jefferson City, TN is 21.1%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Jefferson City, TN?
Jefferson City's population is 7.5% White, 1.7% Hispanic or Latino, 0.1% Black or African American, 0.1% Asian, and 3.3% two or more races. 4.0% of residents are foreign-born.