McKenzie, TN
Population 5,706 · Tennessee
About McKenzie, TN
McKenzie is a small town located in Tennessee with a population of 5,706 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $35,988 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.4 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 McKenzie features a median home value of $140,200, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. This makes McKenzie one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $669, 42% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 2,294 total housing units, 56% are owner-occupied (1,145 units) and 44% are renter-occupied (909 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McKenzie shows an unemployment rate of 3.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 23.2%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in McKenzie have an average one-way commute time of 21 minutes.
Education & Demographics
25.1% of McKenzie 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 2.4% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, and 0.7% Asian residents, with 5.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McKenzie, TN
Compared to national averages, McKenzie has a median household income of $35,988 (52% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $140,200, which is 43% below the national median. Monthly rent at $669 is 42% below the US average of $1,163. Within Tennessee, McKenzie's income is 43% below the state average of $62,849, and home values are 35% below the state median of $214,371.
Why Live in McKenzie, TN?
McKenzie offers affordable housing with a median home value of $140,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $669/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 3.3%. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 21 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($35,988) that falls below the national average. However, McKenzie’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McKenzie has a population of 5,706 with a median age of 33.4 years. Compare McKenzie with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Tennessee.
Similar Cities Near McKenzie
Cities in Tennessee with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lafayette | 5,643 | $44,924 | $189,800 | Compare |
| Eagleton Village | 5,849 | $67,596 | $169,700 | Compare |
| Dunlap | 5,546 | $38,666 | $148,300 | Compare |
| Millersville | 5,885 | $70,411 | $280,800 | Compare |
| Rockwood | 5,510 | $37,867 | $132,100 | Compare |
| Mount Carmel | 5,504 | $71,336 | $179,700 | Compare |
| Erwin | 6,001 | $45,422 | $165,100 | Compare |
| Harriman | 6,021 | $42,183 | $162,500 | 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 McKenzie With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about McKenzie
What is the population of McKenzie, TN?
The population of McKenzie, TN is 5,706 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 McKenzie?
The median household income in McKenzie, TN is $35,988 per year, which is 52% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McKenzie?
The median home value in McKenzie, TN is $140,200, which is 43% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in McKenzie?
The median monthly rent in McKenzie, TN is $669, which is 42% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McKenzie?
The unemployment rate in McKenzie, TN is 3.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is McKenzie, TN a good place to live?
McKenzie offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 5,706 and a median age of 33.4, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is McKenzie, TN?
25.1% of residents in McKenzie 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 McKenzie?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McKenzie, TN: median home value is $140,200 (43% below national), median rent is $669/month, and median household income is $35,988. The home-value-to-income ratio is 3.9x, a moderate figure by national standards.
What is the poverty rate in McKenzie?
The poverty rate in McKenzie, TN is 23.2%, 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 McKenzie, TN?
McKenzie's population is 2.4% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Black or African American, 0.7% Asian, and 16.4% two or more races. 5.1% of residents are foreign-born.