Birmingham, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
198,173
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,051/yr
3.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
109,349
0.4% year-over-year change

Birmingham population

How many people live in Birmingham

Birmingham is home to 198,173 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 46.9% of Birmingham locals are male, and 53.1% are female.

Total population
198,173
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
46.9%
92,859
Female
53.1%
105,314
Value Percent YoY change
Male 92,859 46.9% -1.3%
Female 105,314 53.1% 0.0%
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 Birmingham is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.8% are children under 15, then 15.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 30% of the population, while another 22.6% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 16.4% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.8%
15 to 24
15.2%
25 to 44
30%
45 to 64
22.6%
Over 65
16.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 31,277 15.8% -0.6%
15 to 24 30,185 15.2% 0.3%
25 to 44 59,532 30% 0.3%
45 to 64 44,693 22.6% -3.2%
Over 65 32,486 16.4% 0.6%
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 Birmingham, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 24.8% of locals are Caucasian, 66.9% are African American and 1.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.5% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
3.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 187,031 94.4% -1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 4,092 2.1% 15.9%
Non-citizens 7,050 3.6% 4.7%
Racial breakdown
White
24.8%
Black or African American
66.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
4.2%
Other
2.5%
Value Percent
White 49,237 24.8%
Black or African American 132,516 66.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 169 0.1%
Asian 2,735 1.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 121 0.1%
Two or more races 8,413 4.2%
Other 4,982 2.5%

Households in Birmingham

A peek inside Birmingham households

Birmingham has 88,788 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 47.5% are families, while the remaining 52.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
88,788
0.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
46,610
Family households
42,178
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 46,610 52.5% 0.3%
Family households 42,178 47.5% 0.3%
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 Birmingham

The housing landscape of Birmingham

Birmingham's housing consists of 109,349 units, with 58% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% 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 0.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
109,349
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 63,442 58%
1 unit, attached 2,159 2%
2 units 2,281 2.1%
3 or 4 units 5,007 4.6%
5 to 9 units 9,777 8.9%
10 to 19 units 9,848 9%
20 to 49 units 7,713 7%
50 or more units 8,247 7.5%
Mobile home 825 0.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 50 0%
Homes built since 2020
844
99.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Birmingham

In Birmingham, the median construction year is 1965. About 18.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 7.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.7% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.8% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 19,989 18.3% 6.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 8,347 7.6% -4.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 18,434 16.9% 1.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 16,332 14.9% 1.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 15,238 13.9% -1.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 9,806 9% -6.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 6,361 5.8% -6.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 6,704 6.1% 2.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 7,294 6.7% -2.1%
Built in 2020 or later 844 0.8% 99.5%
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.

Birmingham occupancy rates

Out of the 88,788 occupied housing units in Birmingham, 45.5% are owner-occupied, while 54.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 18.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
88,788
0.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
48,386
Owner occupied
40,402
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 48,386 54.5% -0.4%
Owner occupied 40,402 45.5% 1.1%
Unoccupied housing units
18.8%
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.

Birmingham housing costs

Housing costs in Birmingham come to a median of $1,039 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,107.

Median housing costs per month
$1,039/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 Birmingham
$1,107/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 Birmingham

Birmingham education at a glance

About 36.8% of the population in Birmingham went to high school, while 24.7% pursued college studies. Another 7.4% earned an associate degree and 18% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 3,879 2.4% 1.6%
High school diploma 59,069 36.8% -1.3%
College diploma 39,744 24.7% -0.8%
Associate degree 11,845 7.4% -2.1%
Bachelor's degree 28,874 18% 2.3%
Graduate degree 17,326 10.8% -0.6%
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 Birmingham

How much people earn in Birmingham

The average annual household income in Birmingham was $69,447 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,051, reflecting a +3.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Birmingham
$69,447/year
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Birmingham
$46,051/year
3.8% year-over-year change

Birmingham income by age

In Birmingham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,737. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $55,316 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $31,004, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,181 in earnings. Overall, 75.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $31,004 13.8%
25 - 44 $48,737 3.2%
45 - 64 $55,316 7.9%
Over 65 $37,181 1.2%
Above poverty level
141,429
Below poverty level
46,335
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 141,429 75.3% 0.2%
Below poverty level 46,335 24.7% -2.5%

Average renter income in Birmingham

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Birmingham, their median household income was $33,103 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.1%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,103
Rent-to-income ratio
40.1%
Understanding the rent-to-income ratio can help renters gauge if local housing costs align with their earnings. A ratio under 30% usually signals affordability, while exceeding this mark means rent is taking a larger-than-recommended bite out of income. That could make it harder for you to cover other costs like transportation, healthcare, or child care.

Employment in Birmingham

Workforce and job types in Birmingham

The job market in Birmingham is powered by 91,800 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 78.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 21.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.3% run their own businesses, 68.7% are employed by private companies, and 15.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
91,800
0.9% year-over-year change
White collar
71,882
Blue collar
19,918
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 71,882 78.3% 2.3%
Blue collar 19,918 21.7% -3.6%
Employer type
Self employees
6.3%
Private companies
68.7%
Governmental workers
15.7%
Not for profit companies
9.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 5,808 6.3% 2.7%
Private companies 63,038 68.7% 1.8%
Governmental workers 14,436 15.7% 0.1%
Not for profit companies 8,518 9.3% -4.6%
Unemployment rate
5.8%
-3.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Birmingham stands at 5.8%, 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 Birmingham

How people get around in Birmingham

In Birmingham, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 83.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 3.5% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
21 min
-3.3% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 75,031 83.2% 0.1%
Taxicab 240 0.3% 101.7%
Bus or trolleybus 1,110 1.2% -6.6%
Motorcycle 9 0% -88.6%
Bicycle 301 0.3% -13.3%
Walk 3,130 3.5% 1.9%
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.

What is the median and average household income in Birmingham by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35061 1,554 448 $69,432 $78,282
35064 9,872 3,787 $48,692 $61,712
35068 8,378 3,702 $73,750 $88,119
35080 20,251 6,936 $118,344 $149,055
35094 14,854 5,726 $74,625 $93,874
35020 24,892 10,211 $35,362 $48,066
35203 3,506 1,768 $47,434 $73,823
35204 8,953 4,159 $35,420 $41,974
35205 18,858 9,926 $51,158 $84,956
35206 15,621 6,441 $42,549 $58,067

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FAQs about Birmingham demographics 

What is the total population of Birmingham?

Birmingham has a total population of 198,173 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 Birmingham?

The gender ratio in Birmingham is as follows:
  • 46.9% males (92,859 residents)
  • 53.1% females (105,314 residents)

What is the median age in Birmingham?

The median age in Birmingham is 35.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Birmingham?

The age distribution in Birmingham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.8% (31,277 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 15.2% (30,185 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 30% (59,532 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.6% (44,693 residents)
  • Over 65: 16.4% (32,486 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Birmingham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Birmingham is as follows:
  • White: 24.8% (49,237 residents)
  • Black or African American: 66.9% (132,516 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (169 residents)
  • Asian: 1.4% (2,735 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (121 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.2% (8,413 residents)
  • Other: 2.5% (4,982 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.4% of the population in Birmingham.

How many housing units are there in Birmingham?

There are 109,349 housing units in Birmingham, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Birmingham has a total of 88,788 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Birmingham?

Birmingham has a median household income of $46,051, representing a +3.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.2% in Birmingham, with a workforce of 91,800 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 78.3% (71,882 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 21.7% (19,918 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.3% (5,808 residents)
  • Private companies: 68.7% (63,038 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.7% (14,436 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 9.3% (8,518 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