Polk County lies in southeastern Tennessee along the Georgia border and is home to some of the state’s most beautiful natural scenery. With a population of around 17,500 residents, the county seat is Benton, while Copperhill and Ducktown are its two incorporated cities. Polk County encompasses sections of the rugged Appalachian Mountains and the Cherokee National Forest, offering a wealth of outdoor recreation opportunities from rafting the world-famous Ocoee River to hiking, fishing, camping and scenic drives.
Communities throughout Polk County include Benton, Copperhill, Ducktown, Conasauga, Delano, Farner, Ocoee, Reliance, and Turtletown. The real estate market ranges from rustic cabins and mountain homes to
Polk County is a rural county in the southeastern corner of Tennessee, with a population of around 17,544 people as of the 2020 census. Its county seat is Benton, while the cities of Copperhill and Ducktown sit on the county’s eastern edge near the Georgia border. The county is bisected by the Ocoee River, famous for its world-class whitewater rafting and kayaking courses used during the 1996 Olympics. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the waterfalls, hiking trails and campgrounds in the Cherokee National Forest, including popular destinations like Benton Falls, McKamy Lake Beach and Brush Creek Trail.
Explore Our Communities:
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Other communities we serve: Ball Play, Belltown, Benton Springs, Benton Station, Harbuck, Oldfort, Parksville, Reliance, Turtletown.
Besides its natural attractions, Polk County offers a quiet, small-town quality of life. Communities such as Conasauga, Delano, Farner, Ocoee, Reliance and Turtletown provide rural landscapes with cabins, farms and large acreage. Benton hosts local festivals and markets, while Copperhill and Ducktown showcase the area’s copper mining heritage. Residents of Polk County enjoy the small-town feel, lower property taxes and easy access to Chattanooga and Cleveland via U.S. highways 64 and 411. Whether you’re interested in a weekend getaway or a permanent home nestled in the foothills, Polk County provides a unique blend of adventure and tranquility.Whether you’re searching for a riverfront retreat, a mountain vacation home, a permanent residence with room to roam, or farms and acreage, our agents at Bender Realty can help you find the right property. We are also experienced in marketing and selling unique properties like mountain cabins and recreational tracts, ensuring that your Polk County real estate goals are met.
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About Living in Polk County
Polk County is located in southeastern Tennessee along the borders of North Carolina and Georgia and is widely known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and small-town communities. The county features a mix of established towns, rural landscapes, and mountainous terrain, offering residents a lifestyle that emphasizes space, privacy, and connection to the outdoors. Its location places it near the Cherokee National Forest and within driving distance of Cleveland, Chattanooga, and North Georgia.
The local economy in Polk County is supported by outdoor tourism, small businesses, manufacturing, and public services. The Ocoee River plays a significant role in the county’s identity and economy, attracting visitors from across the country for whitewater rafting and outdoor events. Forestry, agriculture, and regional employment centers also contribute to long-term economic stability.
Residents of Polk County enjoy a relaxed pace of life with access to rivers, forests, and recreational opportunities. Housing options range from homes within town limits to properties with acreage, cabins, mountain views, and river access. Polk County appeals to those seeking affordability, natural surroundings, and a quieter lifestyle while remaining connected to nearby service and employment hubs.
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Polk County Frequently Asked Questions
Is Polk County a good place to live?
Yes. Polk County offers a peaceful lifestyle, affordable housing, and access to some of the most well-known outdoor recreation areas in Tennessee. Many residents value the county’s scenery, slower pace of life, and close-knit communities.
What types of homes are available in Polk County?
Housing options include single-family homes in towns such as Benton, Ducktown, and Copperhill, as well as rural properties, cabins, and homes on larger tracts of land. Buyers can find a wide range of property types and price points.
How are schools in Polk County?
Polk County is served by the Polk County School System, which provides educational opportunities for students throughout the county.
What is Polk County known for?
Polk County is best known for the Ocoee River, the Cherokee National Forest, and its reputation as a destination for outdoor recreation including whitewater rafting, hiking, and camping.
Why do people move to Polk County?
People move to Polk County for its natural beauty, outdoor lifestyle, and quieter pace of life. The area attracts those seeking space, privacy, and access to year-round recreation.
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Helpful Local Resources for Polk County Residents
Polk County Government
https://www.polkcountytn.gov
Polk County School System
https://www.polkcountyschools.com
Cherokee National Forest – Polk County Area
https://www.fs.usda.gov/cherokee
Ocoee River – Official Information
https://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/cherokee/recarea/?recid=34998
Polk County Chamber of Commerce
https://www.polkcountytnchamber.com
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Why Move to Polk County
People choose Polk County for its combination of scenic beauty, outdoor recreation, and peaceful living. The county offers access to rivers, forests, and mountains that are difficult to match elsewhere in the region.
With affordable housing, strong community ties, and proximity to regional employment centers, Polk County continues to attract residents looking for a lifestyle centered on space, scenery, and long-term livability.
