Calera, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,714
3.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$87,194/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,907
4.5% year-over-year change

Calera population

How many people live in Calera

Calera is home to 17,714 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.6% of Calera locals are male, and 50.4% are female.

Total population
17,714
3.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.6%
8,786
Female
50.4%
8,928
Value Percent YoY change
Male 8,786 49.6% 6.8%
Female 8,928 50.4% -0.4%
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 Calera is 34, with the population distributed as follows: about 22% are children under 15, then 11.9% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 37.8% of the population, while another 20% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 8.3% are 65 or older.

Median age
33.9
Age breakdown
Under 15
22%
15 to 24
11.9%
25 to 44
37.8%
45 to 64
20%
Over 65
8.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,892 22% -5.8%
15 to 24 2,110 11.9% 0.3%
25 to 44 6,693 37.8% 7.6%
45 to 64 3,541 20% 4.0%
Over 65 1,478 8.3% 11.4%
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 Calera, 94.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.3% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 60.4% of locals are Caucasian, 30.6% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.5% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.8%
Non-citizens
3.3%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,809 94.9% 2.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 314 1.8% 5.7%
Non-citizens 591 3.3% 8.8%
Racial breakdown
White
60.4%
Black or African American
30.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.5%
Other
4.4%
Value Percent
White 10,702 60.4%
Black or African American 5,430 30.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 17 0.1%
Asian 156 0.9%
Two or more races 622 3.5%
Other 787 4.4%

Households in Calera

A peek inside Calera households

Calera has 6,686 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 73.8% are families, while the remaining 26.2% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,686
4.1% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,755
Family households
4,931
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,755 26.2% 7.6%
Family households 4,931 73.8% 2.9%
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 Calera

The housing landscape of Calera

Calera's housing consists of 6,907 units, with 86.5% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 4.3% 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 4.1% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,907
4.5% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,973 86.5%
1 unit, attached 297 4.3%
2 units 81 1.2%
3 or 4 units 25 0.4%
10 to 19 units 157 2.3%
20 to 49 units 89 1.3%
Mobile home 285 4.1%
Homes built since 2020
176
147.9% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Calera

In Calera, the median construction year is 2006. About 2.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.9% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 47.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 30.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.6% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 149 2.2% 9.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 130 1.9% 34.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 105 1.5% 14.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 147 2.1% 13.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 178 2.6% -36.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 198 2.9% 6.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 430 6.2% 29.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 3,288 47.6% 4.3%
Built between 2010 and 2019 2,106 30.5% -1.3%
Built in 2020 or later 176 2.6% 147.9%
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.

Calera occupancy rates

Out of the 6,686 occupied housing units in Calera, 79.3% are owner-occupied, while 20.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 3.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,686
4.1% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,384
Owner occupied
5,302
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,384 20.7% 6.7%
Owner occupied 5,302 79.3% 3.5%
Unoccupied housing units
3.2%
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.

Calera housing costs

Housing costs in Calera come to a median of $1,337 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,601.

Median housing costs per month
$1,337/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 Calera
$1,601/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 Calera

Calera education at a glance

About 30.7% of the population in Calera went to high school, while 24.3% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 25.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8.6% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 263 2% 32.8%
High school diploma 4,062 30.7% 13.2%
College diploma 3,220 24.3% 5.5%
Associate degree 1,218 9.2% -12.5%
Bachelor's degree 3,333 25.2% 8.1%
Graduate degree 1,142 8.6% 3.4%
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 Calera

How much people earn in Calera

The average annual household income in Calera was $100,196 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $87,194, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Calera
$100,196/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Calera
$87,194/year
5.8% year-over-year change

Calera income by age

In Calera, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $100,597. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $96,883 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $85,472, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $55,213 in earnings. Overall, 92.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $85,472 5.0%
25 - 44 $100,597 18.9%
45 - 64 $96,883 2.1%
Over 65 $55,213 0.3%
Above poverty level
16,124
Below poverty level
1,272
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 16,124 92.7% 2.1%
Below poverty level 1,272 7.3% 10.9%

Average renter income in Calera

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Calera, their median household income was $42,341 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 45.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$42,341
Rent-to-income ratio
45.4%
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 Calera

Workforce and job types in Calera

The job market in Calera is powered by 9,867 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 79.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 20.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.4% run their own businesses, 69.9% are employed by private companies, and 15.9% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,867
1.2% year-over-year change
White collar
7,835
Blue collar
2,032
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 7,835 79.4% 2.4%
Blue collar 2,032 20.6% -3.0%
Employer type
Self employees
6.4%
Private companies
69.9%
Governmental workers
15.9%
Not for profit companies
7.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 629 6.4% 37.3%
Private companies 6,899 69.9% 0.7%
Governmental workers 1,565 15.9% -3.5%
Not for profit companies 774 7.8% -5.0%
Unemployment rate
2.7%
188.5% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Calera stands at 2.7%, 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 Calera

How people get around in Calera

Commuting methods vary: 82.4% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.3% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,037 82.4% -3.1%
Bus or trolleybus 2 0% 0.0%
Walk 26 0.3% 100.0%
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 Calera by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35040 19,304 7,358 $84,554 $95,491

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Calera demographics 

What is the total population of Calera?

Calera has a total population of 17,714 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 +3.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Calera?

The gender ratio in Calera is as follows:
  • 49.6% males (8,786 residents)
  • 50.4% females (8,928 residents)

What is the median age in Calera?

The median age in Calera is 33.9.

What is the age distribution of the population in Calera?

The age distribution in Calera is as follows:
  • Under 15: 22% (3,892 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.9% (2,110 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 37.8% (6,693 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20% (3,541 residents)
  • Over 65: 8.3% (1,478 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Calera?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Calera is as follows:
  • White: 60.4% (10,702 residents)
  • Black or African American: 30.6% (5,430 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (17 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (156 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.5% (622 residents)
  • Other: 4.4% (787 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.9% of the population in Calera.

How many housing units are there in Calera?

There are 6,907 housing units in Calera, reflecting a +4.5% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Calera has a total of 6,686 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Calera?

Calera has a median household income of $87,194, representing a +5.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 97.3% in Calera, with a workforce of 9,867 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 79.4% (7,835 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 20.6% (2,032 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.4% (629 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.9% (6,899 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 15.9% (1,565 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.8% (774 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