Dale County, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
49,599
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$54,963/yr
1.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
22,968
0.2% year-over-year change

Dale County population

How many people live in Dale County

Dale County is home to 49,599 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 49.3% of Dale County locals are male, and 50.7% are female.

Total population
49,599
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
49.3%
24,438
Female
50.7%
25,161
Value Percent YoY change
Male 24,438 49.3% 0.2%
Female 25,161 50.7% 0.2%
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 Dale County is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.5% are children under 15, then 12.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.9% of the population, while another 23.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.1% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.5%
15 to 24
12.6%
25 to 44
25.9%
45 to 64
23.9%
Over 65
18.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 9,688 19.5% 0.5%
15 to 24 6,270 12.6% 3.8%
25 to 44 12,838 25.9% -0.8%
45 to 64 11,834 23.9% -1.4%
Over 65 8,969 18.1% 0.9%
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 Dale County, 93.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 4.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 67.6% of locals are Caucasian, 20.4% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. Another 0.5% are Indigenous American, 0.1% are Pacific Islanders, while 2.8% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
93.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
4.9%
Non-citizens
1.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 46,433 93.6% 0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 2,445 4.9% 0.9%
Non-citizens 721 1.4% -2.7%
Racial breakdown
White
67.6%
Black or African American
20.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.5%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.1%
Two or more races
7.4%
Other
2.8%
Value Percent
White 33,551 67.6%
Black or African American 10,103 20.4%
American Indian and Alaska Native 247 0.5%
Asian 611 1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 48 0.1%
Two or more races 3,652 7.4%
Other 1,387 2.8%

Households in Dale County

A peek inside Dale County households

Dale County has 19,727 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 62.9% are families, while the remaining 37.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
19,727
-0.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
7,319
Family households
12,408
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 7,319 37.1% -1.0%
Family households 12,408 62.9% 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 Dale County

The housing landscape of Dale County

Dale County's housing consists of 22,968 units, with 63.6% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 3.4% 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 19.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
22,968
0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 14,620 63.6%
1 unit, attached 772 3.4%
2 units 512 2.2%
3 or 4 units 1,150 5%
5 to 9 units 876 3.8%
10 to 19 units 214 0.9%
20 to 49 units 65 0.3%
50 or more units 115 0.5%
Mobile home 4,475 19.5%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 169 0.7%
Homes built since 2020
328
21.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Dale County

In Dale County, the median construction year is 1983. About 4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 12.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.4% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 914 4% -6.5%
Built between 1940 and 1949 605 2.6% -5.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,519 6.6% 19.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 3,116 13.6% -8.1%
Built between 1970 and 1979 4,262 18.6% -2.2%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,978 17.3% -6.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,392 14.8% 7.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,934 12.8% 10.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,920 8.4% 0.1%
Built in 2020 or later 328 1.4% 21.5%
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.

Dale County occupancy rates

Out of the 19,727 occupied housing units in Dale County, 61.9% are owner-occupied, while 38.1% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 14.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
19,727
-0.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
7,517
Owner occupied
12,210
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 7,517 38.1% -1.6%
Owner occupied 12,210 61.9% 0.7%
Unoccupied housing units
14.1%
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.

Dale County housing costs

Housing costs in Dale County come to a median of $770 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $889.

Median housing costs per month
$770/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 Dale County
$889/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 Dale County

Dale County education at a glance

About 42.4% of the population in Dale County went to high school, while 24.7% pursued college studies. Another 10.3% earned an associate degree and 13% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.1% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,305 3.4% -18.3%
High school diploma 16,115 42.4% 0.8%
College diploma 9,406 24.7% -1.8%
Associate degree 3,913 10.3% 0.9%
Bachelor's degree 4,958 13% 4.4%
Graduate degree 2,331 6.1% 5.4%
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 Dale County

How much people earn in Dale County

The average annual household income in Dale County was $74,266 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $54,963, reflecting a +1.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Dale County
$74,266/year
6.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Dale County
$54,963/year
1.9% year-over-year change

Dale County income by age

In Dale County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,793. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $60,265 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $38,880, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $48,219 in earnings. Overall, 81.3% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $38,880 2.7%
25 - 44 $61,793 3.6%
45 - 64 $60,265 1.6%
Over 65 $48,219 1.5%
Above poverty level
39,056
Below poverty level
8,965
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 39,056 81.3% 0.6%
Below poverty level 8,965 18.7% -0.0%

Employment in Dale County

Workforce and job types in Dale County

The job market in Dale County is powered by 17,899 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 69.3% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 30.7% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.1% run their own businesses, 65% are employed by private companies, and 20.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
17,899
0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
12,408
Blue collar
5,491
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 12,408 69.3% 0.9%
Blue collar 5,491 30.7% -0.5%
Employer type
Self employees
9.1%
Private companies
65%
Governmental workers
20.8%
Not for profit companies
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,628 9.1% 5.8%
Private companies 11,632 65% -0.7%
Governmental workers 3,726 20.8% -1.2%
Not for profit companies 913 5.1% 15.7%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
-2.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Dale County stands at 6.6%, 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 Dale County

How people get around in Dale County

In Dale County, the average commute time is 22 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1.9% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
22 min
0.9% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 17,607 90.7% -1.4%
Bus or trolleybus 63 0.3% -3.1%
Motorcycle 176 0.9% -4.9%
Bicycle 37 0.2% -27.4%
Walk 364 1.9% -32.3%
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 Dale County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
36311 3,048 1,148 $51,563 $66,983
36317 1,040 349 $97,688 $146,209
36322 7,959 3,695 $47,276 $67,980
36350 7,659 3,004 $55,366 $76,476
36352 5,617 2,003 $71,997 $96,400
36353 2,158 793 $66,318 $85,311
36360 19,060 7,857 $51,181 $73,357
36362 4,705 1,367 $74,541 $80,087
36371 430 215 $50,625 $60,515
36303 30,173 12,216 $54,147 $81,072

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FAQs about Dale County demographics 

What is the total population of Dale County?

Dale County has a total population of 49,599 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Dale County?

The gender ratio in Dale County is as follows:
  • 49.3% males (24,438 residents)
  • 50.7% females (25,161 residents)

What is the median age in Dale County?

The median age in Dale County is 37.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Dale County?

The age distribution in Dale County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.5% (9,688 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.6% (6,270 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.9% (12,838 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 23.9% (11,834 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.1% (8,969 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Dale County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Dale County is as follows:
  • White: 67.6% (33,551 residents)
  • Black or African American: 20.4% (10,103 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.5% (247 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (611 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.1% (48 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.4% (3,652 residents)
  • Other: 2.8% (1,387 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 93.6% of the population in Dale County.

How many housing units are there in Dale County?

There are 22,968 housing units in Dale County, reflecting a +0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Dale County has a total of 19,727 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Dale County?

Dale County has a median household income of $54,963, representing a +1.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Dale County?

The employment rate is 93.4% in Dale County, with a workforce of 17,899 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 69.3% (12,408 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 30.7% (5,491 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.1% (1,628 residents)
  • Private companies: 65% (11,632 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.8% (3,726 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.1% (913 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