Polk County, TN

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:

Benton
Copperhill
Ducktown
Conasauga
Delano
Farner
Ocoee

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.

About Living in Polk County, TN

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.

Polk County Frequently Asked Questions

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Helpful Local Resources for Polk County Residents

Polk County Government

https://www.polkgovernment.com

Polk County Government is the best starting point for official local services and public information. Residents can find details on county departments, public meetings, elected officials, permits, taxes, and community resources. If you’re relocating to Polk County, this site is also helpful for finding contact info for the courthouse, clerks, and other county offices—making it easier to handle “first-week” tasks like registrations, records, and local service questions.

Polk County School System
Cherokee National Forest and Ocoee River
Polk County Chamber of Commerce
Bradley-Tall

Why Move to Polk County, TN

Polk County, Tennessee offers a rare blend of natural beauty, affordability, and small-town stability that continues to attract families, retirees, outdoor enthusiasts, and those seeking a slower, more intentional pace of life. Located in the southeastern corner of the state, Polk County provides access to mountains, rivers, and national forests while remaining within reach of larger employment and medical hubs.

One of the most compelling reasons people move to Polk County is its outdoor lifestyle. The county is home to the Cherokee National Forest and the Ocoee River, nationally recognized for whitewater rafting, hiking, fishing, camping, and scenic views. Residents enjoy year-round recreation without the congestion or cost found in larger resort areas, making Polk County especially appealing to those who value nature as part of everyday life.

Polk County is also known for its affordable cost of living. Housing prices, property taxes, and general living expenses are typically lower than state and national averages, allowing homeowners to get more space, land, and value for their investment. Whether someone is looking for a quiet rural property, a modest home in town, or acreage for farming or recreation, Polk County offers a wide range of options.

Community and quality of life play a major role in Polk County’s appeal. Residents often describe the area as close-knit, welcoming, and grounded in strong local values. Schools, churches, civic organizations, and local businesses form the backbone of the community, creating an environment where people know their neighbors and feel connected. For many, Polk County represents a return to simpler living without sacrificing essential services.

Strategically, Polk County sits near the borders of Georgia and North Carolina, offering regional access to Cleveland, Chattanooga, and the greater Southeast. This location allows residents to enjoy rural living while still commuting to nearby cities for work, healthcare, higher education, and expanded shopping and dining options.

For those seeking natural beauty, financial practicality, and a genuine sense of place, Polk County stands out as a destination where people don’t just relocate—they put down roots.

 

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