McDonald, TN
Population 541 · Tennessee
About McDonald, TN
McDonald is a small community located in Tennessee with a population of 541 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $56,492 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 51.1 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in McDonald features a median home value of $180,900, which is 26% below the national median of $244,900. This positions McDonald in a moderately priced market relative to the rest of the country. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 247 total housing units, 84% are owner-occupied (207 units) and 16% are renter-occupied (40 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McDonald shows an unemployment rate of 9.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 3.9%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in McDonald have an average one-way commute time of 20.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
30.3% of McDonald residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 3.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McDonald, TN
Compared to national averages, McDonald has a median household income of $56,492 (25% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $180,900, which is 26% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Tennessee, McDonald's income is 10% below the state average of $62,849, and home values are 16% below the state median of $214,371.
Why Live in McDonald, TN?
McDonald offers affordable housing with a median home value of $180,900, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a low poverty rate of 3.9%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.1 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($56,492) that falls below the national average. However, McDonald’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McDonald has a population of 541 with a median age of 51.1 years. Compare McDonald with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Tennessee.
Similar Cities Near McDonald
Cities in Tennessee with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gallaway | 541 | $30,750 | $204,900 | Compare |
| Gibson | 536 | $52,656 | $155,800 | Compare |
| Pleasant Hill | 546 | $48,393 | $170,400 | Compare |
| Michie | 526 | $67,813 | $159,700 | Compare |
| Trimble | 558 | $57,697 | $73,100 | Compare |
| Grand Junction | 560 | $74,583 | $154,000 | Compare |
| Cosby | 521 | $0 | $160,300 | Compare |
| Pittman Center | 521 | $72,656 | $329,600 | 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 McDonald With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McDonald
What is the population of McDonald, TN?
The population of McDonald, TN is 541 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Tennessee.
What is the median household income in McDonald?
The median household income in McDonald, TN is $56,492 per year, which is 25% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McDonald?
The median home value in McDonald, TN is $180,900, which is 26% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McDonald?
The median monthly rent in McDonald, TN is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McDonald?
The unemployment rate in McDonald, TN is 9.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is McDonald, TN a good place to live?
McDonald offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 541 and a median age of 51.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is McDonald, TN?
30.3% of residents in McDonald 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 McDonald?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McDonald, TN: median home value is $180,900 (26% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $56,492. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McDonald?
The poverty rate in McDonald, TN is 3.9%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is McDonald, TN?
McDonald's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 3.1% of residents are foreign-born.