South Birmingham, Birmingham, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
30,428
0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$65,888/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
18,858
2.2% year-over-year change

South Birmingham population

How many people live in South Birmingham

South Birmingham is home to 30,428 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.1% of South Birmingham locals are male, and 52.9% are female.

Total population
30,428
0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.1%
14,320
Female
52.9%
16,108
Value Percent YoY change
Male 14,320 47.1% 0.0%
Female 16,108 52.9% 1.1%
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 South Birmingham is 32, with the population distributed as follows: about 6.9% are children under 15, then 25.5% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 38.7% of the population, while another 17% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 11.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
32
Age breakdown
Under 15
6.9%
15 to 24
25.5%
25 to 44
38.7%
45 to 64
17%
Over 65
11.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,104 6.9% -13.2%
15 to 24 7,761 25.5% 1.7%
25 to 44 11,781 38.7% 0.0%
45 to 64 5,166 17% 2.3%
Over 65 3,615 11.9% 7.2%
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 South Birmingham, 89.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 62.4% of locals are Caucasian, 24.8% are African American and 5.4% have Asian roots. Another 0.1% are Indigenous American, 0.2% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 4.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
89.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.2%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 27,219 89.4% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,266 4.2% 22.2%
Non-citizens 1,943 6.4% -11.8%
Racial breakdown
White
62.4%
Black or African American
24.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
5.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.2%
Two or more races
4.3%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 18,986 62.4%
Black or African American 7,558 24.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 39 0.1%
Asian 1,633 5.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 67 0.2%
Two or more races 1,305 4.3%
Other 840 2.8%

Households in South Birmingham

A peek inside South Birmingham households

South Birmingham has 15,893 households, with an average of 1 members in each. Of these, 27.2% are families, while the remaining 72.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
15,893
3.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
1
Non-family households
11,569
Family households
4,324
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 11,569 72.8% 5.2%
Family households 4,324 27.2% -1.9%
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 South Birmingham

The housing landscape of South Birmingham

South Birmingham's housing consists of 18,858 units, with 29% 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 0.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
18,858
2.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,465 29%
1 unit, attached 372 2%
2 units 389 2.1%
3 or 4 units 1,201 6.4%
5 to 9 units 2,445 13%
10 to 19 units 2,528 13.4%
20 to 49 units 2,698 14.3%
50 or more units 3,722 19.7%
Mobile home 35 0.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 4 0%
Homes built since 2020
384
105.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in South Birmingham

In South Birmingham, the median construction year is 1968. About 24.6% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 6.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 11.1% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 4,645 24.6% 4.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 945 5% -11.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,092 11.1% 10.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 2,200 11.7% 9.2%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,599 13.8% 3.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,389 7.4% -10.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,336 7.1% -21.9%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,174 6.2% 8.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,093 11.1% 4.8%
Built in 2020 or later 384 2% 105.3%
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.

South Birmingham occupancy rates

Out of the 15,893 occupied housing units in South Birmingham, 33% are owner-occupied, while 67% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
15,893
3.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
10,642
Owner occupied
5,251
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 10,642 67% 3.0%
Owner occupied 5,251 33% 3.6%
Unoccupied housing units
15.7%
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.

South Birmingham housing costs

Housing costs in South Birmingham come to a median of $1,430 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,216.

Median housing costs per month
$1,430/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 South Birmingham
$1,216/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 South Birmingham

South Birmingham education at a glance

About 16.1% of the population in South Birmingham went to high school, while 28% pursued college studies. Another 5% earned an associate degree and 26.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 23.2% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 299 1.1% -13.1%
High school diploma 4,472 16.1% 3.6%
College diploma 7,777 28% 1.9%
Associate degree 1,403 5% -11.8%
Bachelor's degree 7,413 26.6% 5.6%
Graduate degree 6,449 23.2% 1.1%
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 South Birmingham

How much people earn in South Birmingham

The average annual household income in South Birmingham was $77,206 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +0.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $65,888, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in South Birmingham
$77,206/year
0.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in South Birmingham
$65,888/year
5.8% year-over-year change

South Birmingham income by age

In South Birmingham, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $69,662. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $111,854 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $30,896, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $58,462 in earnings. Overall, 83% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $30,896 2.2%
25 - 44 $69,662 1.3%
45 - 64 $111,854 -3.8%
Over 65 $58,462 -12.5%
Above poverty level
21,909
Below poverty level
4,494
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 21,909 83% 2.9%
Below poverty level 4,494 17% -10.8%

Employment in South Birmingham

Workforce and job types in South Birmingham

89.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 10.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 5% run their own businesses, 63.7% are employed by private companies, and 18.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

White collar
16,452
Blue collar
1,959
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,452 89.4% 2.3%
Blue collar 1,959 10.6% 7.3%
Employer type
Self employees
5%
Private companies
63.7%
Governmental workers
18.2%
Not for profit companies
13.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 918 5% -3.1%
Private companies 11,722 63.7% 2.3%
Governmental workers 3,358 18.2% -1.7%
Not for profit companies 2,413 13.1% 15.6%

Transportation in South Birmingham

How people get around in South Birmingham

In South Birmingham, the average commute time is 30 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 87.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 10.4% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
30 min
57.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 13,660 87.5% 2.2%
Taxicab 17 0.1% -64.6%
Bus or trolleybus 132 0.8% -7.7%
Bicycle 190 1.2% -5.0%
Walk 1,618 10.4% -0.9%
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 South Birmingham by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35205 18,858 9,926 $51,158 $84,956
35209 32,734 13,175 $71,439 $120,769
35222 8,361 3,948 $84,066 $133,732
35233 3,570 2,585 $60,336 $63,201

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FAQs about South Birmingham demographics 

What is the total population of South Birmingham?

South Birmingham has a total population of 30,428 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 South Birmingham?

The gender ratio in South Birmingham is as follows:
  • 47.1% males (14,320 residents)
  • 52.9% females (16,108 residents)

What is the median age in South Birmingham?

The median age in South Birmingham is 32.

What is the age distribution of the population in South Birmingham?

The age distribution in South Birmingham is as follows:
  • Under 15: 6.9% (2,104 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 25.5% (7,761 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 38.7% (11,781 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 17% (5,166 residents)
  • Over 65: 11.9% (3,615 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of South Birmingham?

The racial and ethnic makeup of South Birmingham is as follows:
  • White: 62.4% (18,986 residents)
  • Black or African American: 24.8% (7,558 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (39 residents)
  • Asian: 5.4% (1,633 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.2% (67 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.3% (1,305 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (840 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 89.4% of the population in South Birmingham.

How many housing units are there in South Birmingham?

There are 18,858 housing units in South Birmingham, reflecting a +2.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

South Birmingham has a total of 15,893 households, with an average of 1 people in each.

What is the median household income in South Birmingham?

South Birmingham has a median household income of $65,888, representing a +5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the job market overview for South Birmingham?

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 89.4% (16,452 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 10.6% (1,959 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 5% (918 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.7% (11,722 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 18.2% (3,358 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 13.1% (2,413 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