Alabama demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
5,086,768
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$63,999/yr
3.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
2,337,265
0.9% year-over-year change

Alabama population

How many people live in Alabama

Alabama is home to 5,086,768 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 48.6% of Alabama locals are male, and 51.4% are female.

Total population
5,086,768
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
48.6%
2,469,932
Female
51.4%
2,616,836
Value Percent YoY change
Male 2,469,932 48.6% 0.7%
Female 2,616,836 51.4% 0.6%
A higher population often means more rental variety and livelier areas. The gender balance—how many men live here compared to women—can reveal a lot about the community and the lifestyles of its residents. Use this info to get a sense of the area's pace and personality.

Age demographics

The median age in Alabama is 39, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.3% are children under 15, then 13.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.3% of the population, while another 25.2% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.3
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.3%
15 to 24
13.4%
25 to 44
25.3%
45 to 64
25.2%
Over 65
17.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 930,221 18.3% 0.0%
15 to 24 682,841 13.4% 1.0%
25 to 44 1,287,469 25.3% 0.9%
45 to 64 1,281,978 25.2% -0.5%
Over 65 904,259 17.8% 2.3%
The age composition helps you get insight into who lives in the area. A younger population might mean a more active, fast-paced vibe, while an older one could suggest a quieter, slower lifestyle. If there's a balanced makeup, you’re likely to find a variety of services, housing types, and community spaces that cater to different life stages.

Racial makeup

In Alabama, 95% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 64.6% of locals are Caucasian, 25.8% are African American and 1.5% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.4% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
95%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
2.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 4,834,315 95% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 129,054 2.5% 1.7%
Non-citizens 123,399 2.4% 8.8%
Racial breakdown
White
64.6%
Black or African American
25.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 3,284,260 64.6%
Black or African American 1,311,062 25.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 23,557 0.5%
Asian 74,435 1.5%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 3,524 0.1%
Two or more races 270,559 5.3%
Other 119,371 2.4%

Households in Alabama

A peek inside Alabama households

Alabama has 1,997,247 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 64.4% are families, while the remaining 35.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
1,997,247
1.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
709,957
Family households
1,287,290
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 709,957 35.6% 2.2%
Family households 1,287,290 64.4% 1.0%
The mix between family and non-family households gives a glimpse into daily life. A higher percentage of families might mean more parks and schools, while more non-family setups can mean flexible housing and diverse living styles. For renters, this can signal what kinds of homes are common and can help you figure out if the area matches your lifestyle.

Housing in Alabama

The housing landscape of Alabama

Alabama's housing consists of 2,337,265 units, with 69.1% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 1.9% and offer a more compact, shared living style. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 12.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
2,337,265
0.9% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 1,615,503 69.1%
1 unit, attached 44,189 1.9%
2 units 41,971 1.8%
3 or 4 units 69,408 3%
5 to 9 units 96,496 4.1%
10 to 19 units 75,131 3.2%
20 to 49 units 43,111 1.8%
50 or more units 59,026 2.5%
Mobile home 286,771 12.3%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 5,659 0.2%
Homes built since 2020
52,951
82.6% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Alabama

In Alabama, the median construction year is 1986. About 4.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 15.4% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 113,460 4.8% 0.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 80,756 3.5% -1.1%
Built between 1950 and 1959 180,861 7.7% 0.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 249,277 10.7% 0.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 358,939 15.4% 0.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 316,186 13.5% -2.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 369,278 15.8% -2.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 360,977 15.4% 0.2%
Built between 2010 and 2019 254,580 10.9% 5.3%
Built in 2020 or later 52,951 2.3% 82.6%
As a renter, knowing when homes were built helps you understand the potential condition and design of rental units. Newer builds may have more contemporary layouts, while older homes can offer character or larger lots, depending on the area.

Alabama occupancy rates

Out of the 1,997,247 occupied housing units in Alabama, 70.2% are owner-occupied, while 29.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
1,997,247
1.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
595,092
Owner occupied
1,402,155
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 595,092 29.8% 0.5%
Owner occupied 1,402,155 70.2% 1.8%
Unoccupied housing units
14.5%
Unoccupied housing units refer to homes that are currently without residents—whether they're waiting for renters or owners, used seasonally, or simply unclaimed. A higher share of empty homes may mean more housing availability, while a low number can reflect a tighter market with more competition. This, along with the renter-vs.-owner mix, helps paint a clearer picture of what types of housing and services are likely to be available in the area.

Alabama housing costs

Housing costs in Alabama come to a median of $947 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,007.

Median housing costs per month
$947/month
This figure sums up typical monthly housing costs for all households in the area. If you own, it includes mortgage payments in addition to property taxes, insurance and HOA fees. If you rent, it accounts for rent plus extras like utilities. It’s useful for seeing how local living expenses stack up compared to other places.
Median gross rent in Alabama
$1,007/month
Gross rent gives a more complete look at what renters actually pay, including not just base rent, but also utilities and fees. It’s a key number for evaluating rental affordability in your area of interest and understanding how it compares to nearby locations.

Education in Alabama

Alabama education at a glance

About 39.2% of the population in Alabama went to high school, while 22.8% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 16.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 9.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 131,331 3.3% -1.9%
High school diploma 1,550,044 39.2% 0.0%
College diploma 901,844 22.8% -0.8%
Associate degree 341,966 8.6% 2.6%
Bachelor's degree 641,520 16.2% 2.8%
Graduate degree 389,338 9.8% 3.6%
A community’s education mix can offer insights into the local economy and housing market. Higher levels of education often align with more job opportunities and stable incomes, which can increase demand for homes and influence both rent prices and rental availability.

Income in Alabama

How much people earn in Alabama

The average annual household income in Alabama was $88,898 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.1% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $63,999, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Alabama
$88,898/year
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income in Alabama
$63,999/year
3.2% year-over-year change

Alabama income by age

In Alabama, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $71,492. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $78,499 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $34,327, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $49,014 in earnings. Overall, 84.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $34,327 7.6%
25 - 44 $71,492 3.9%
45 - 64 $78,499 4.2%
Over 65 $49,014 1.6%
Above poverty level
4,132,623
Below poverty level
759,635
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 4,132,623 84.5% 0.6%
Below poverty level 759,635 15.5% 0.6%

Employment in Alabama

Workforce and job types in Alabama

The job market in Alabama is powered by 2,256,522 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.3% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 16.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
2,256,522
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
1,664,090
Blue collar
592,432
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 1,664,090 73.8% 1.6%
Blue collar 592,432 26.2% 0.1%
Employer type
Self employees
9.3%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
16.6%
Not for profit companies
7%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 209,579 9.3% 2.9%
Private companies 1,515,383 67.2% 0.7%
Governmental workers 373,462 16.6% 1.8%
Not for profit companies 158,098 7% 2.4%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-1.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Alabama stands at 4.7%, representing the share of the workforce currently without a job and actively looking for one.

For renters, the unemployment rate helps paint a picture of job security and financial stability in the area. Rates around 4% to 5% are considered typical. A lower-than-average rate might suggest strong job prospects and a thriving local economy, while a higher rate could hint at fewer opportunities—both useful to consider when planning a move.

Transportation in Alabama

How people get around in Alabama

In Alabama, the average commute time is 26 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 88.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.2% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
26 min
0.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 1,975,114 88.6% -0.0%
Taxicab 1,905 0.1% 54.1%
Bus or trolleybus 5,803 0.3% -9.8%
Subway or elevated 84 0% N/A
Railroad 55 0% -27.6%
Ferryboat 372 0% 115.0%
Motorcycle 2,351 0.1% 6.6%
Bicycle 1,863 0.1% -6.8%
Walk 25,583 1.2% 1.7%
Understanding how locals get to work can help you plan your own routine. High car usage might mean you’ll need a vehicle, while strong public transit or walkability could save you the hassle. Commute times also play a big role in quality of life—shorter trips can give you more time for the things you enjoy.

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Alabama demographics 

What is the total population of Alabama?

Alabama has a total population of 5,086,768 residents, according to the latest release from the U.S. Census Bureau: the 2019-2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates. This figure changed by +0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Alabama?

The gender ratio in Alabama is as follows:
  • 48.6% males (2,469,932 residents)
  • 51.4% females (2,616,836 residents)

What is the median age in Alabama?

The median age in Alabama is 39.3.

What is the age distribution of the population in Alabama?

The age distribution in Alabama is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.3% (930,221 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.4% (682,841 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.3% (1,287,469 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.2% (1,281,978 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.8% (904,259 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Alabama?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Alabama is as follows:
  • White: 64.6% (3,284,260 residents)
  • Black or African American: 25.8% (1,311,062 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (23,557 residents)
  • Asian: 1.5% (74,435 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (3,524 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (270,559 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (119,371 residents)

What percentage of the population in Alabama are U.S.-born citizens?

U.S.-born citizens represent 95% of the population in Alabama.

How many housing units are there in Alabama?

There are 2,337,265 housing units in Alabama, reflecting a +0.9% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

How many households are in Alabama and what is the average household size?

Alabama has a total of 1,997,247 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Alabama?

Alabama has a median household income of $63,999, representing a +3.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Alabama?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Alabama, with a workforce of 2,256,522 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.8% (1,664,090 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.2% (592,432 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.3% (209,579 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (1,515,383 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.6% (373,462 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7% (158,098 residents)

Data source & methodology

The demographic data on this page was sourced from the latest U.S. Census Bureau release—the 2019–2023 American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates.

The information, issued annually, is compiled and published by the Point2Homes Research Team as soon as new data becomes available.

No representation, guarantee, or warranty is made concerning the accuracy or completeness of modified or aggregated information for particular areas.

Page last updated: September 2025