RUTHERFORD COUNTY, Tenn. — Children make up nearly a quarter of Rutherford County’s total population, according to the latest figures from the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth and the state’s Future Data Dashboard. Out of Tennessee’s 7.2 million residents, about 21.7% are under the age of 18. In Rutherford County, that number rises to 24.2%, showing the community’s growing youth population compared to the statewide average.

Statewide data show that the largest age group of children in Tennessee falls between 10 and 14 years old. Gender distribution is relatively even, with 51.2% male and 48.8% female among residents under 18.

The Tennessee Commission ranked Rutherford County fifth out of the state’s 95 counties for overall child well-being. This high ranking reflects strong marks in education, family stability, health, and community resources. The report noted that 7.4 children per 1,000 in Rutherford County were identified as victims of abuse or neglect, while 4% of the county’s child population were subjects of abuse-related cases—lower than the state average of 5.5%.

Additional data from the state dashboard show that Rutherford County’s economic and educational indicators also outpace many areas of Tennessee. The county’s median household income stands at $81,987, well above the state average of $67,651, while fewer children live in economically disadvantaged households. Only 3.2% of students experienced homelessness in the 2022–2023 school year, compared to the state rate of 2.4%, reflecting both growth and challenges in a rapidly expanding community.

Community leaders say the data highlight both the strengths and needs of one of Tennessee’s fastest-growing counties. Ongoing attention to child welfare, access to health care, and educational opportunities remains essential to maintaining Rutherford County’s strong standing statewide.