Decatur, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
57,361
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$61,563/yr
2.9% year-over-year change
Housing units
25,467
-0.7% year-over-year change

Decatur population

How many people live in Decatur

Decatur is home to 57,361 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.1% of Decatur locals are male, and 49.9% are female.

Total population
57,361
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.1%
28,715
Female
49.9%
28,646
Value Percent YoY change
Male 28,715 50.1% -1.1%
Female 28,646 49.9% -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 Decatur is 40, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.3% are children under 15, then 12.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.2% of the population, while another 25.1% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18% are 65 or older.

Median age
39.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.3%
15 to 24
12.3%
25 to 44
25.2%
45 to 64
25.1%
Over 65
18%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 11,079 19.3% 1.1%
15 to 24 7,060 12.3% 3.0%
25 to 44 14,452 25.2% -0.9%
45 to 64 14,414 25.1% -3.5%
Over 65 10,356 18% -0.8%
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 Decatur, 90.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 6.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 58.2% of locals are Caucasian, 24.2% are African American and 0.9% have Asian roots. Another 1.1% are Indigenous American, 0.4% are Pacific Islanders, while 7.9% identify as another race. There’s also a share of 7.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
90.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.8%
Non-citizens
6.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 52,075 90.8% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 1,591 2.8% -11.2%
Non-citizens 3,695 6.4% 14.8%
Racial breakdown
White
58.2%
Black or African American
24.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
1.1%
Asian
0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0.4%
Two or more races
7.2%
Other
7.9%
Value Percent
White 33,404 58.2%
Black or African American 13,883 24.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 636 1.1%
Asian 496 0.9%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 252 0.4%
Two or more races 4,139 7.2%
Other 4,551 7.9%

Households in Decatur

A peek inside Decatur households

Decatur has 23,722 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 58.3% are families, while the remaining 41.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
23,722
-0.7% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
9,890
Family households
13,832
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 9,890 41.7% 2.7%
Family households 13,832 58.3% -3.0%
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 Decatur

The housing landscape of Decatur

Decatur's housing consists of 25,467 units, with 69.9% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 5.8% 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 1.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
25,467
-0.7% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 17,801 69.9%
1 unit, attached 1,466 5.8%
2 units 370 1.4%
3 or 4 units 1,016 4%
5 to 9 units 2,050 8%
10 to 19 units 1,090 4.3%
20 to 49 units 397 1.6%
50 or more units 860 3.4%
Mobile home 398 1.6%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 19 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
281
128.5% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Decatur

In Decatur, the median construction year is 1977. About 4.2% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 1,068 4.2% -10.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 1,036 4.1% 34.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 2,611 10.2% -6.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 4,233 16.6% -0.3%
Built between 1970 and 1979 5,184 20.4% 1.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 4,141 16.3% -7.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,212 12.6% -1.1%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,567 10.1% -5.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,134 4.4% 19.9%
Built in 2020 or later 281 1.1% 128.5%
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.

Decatur occupancy rates

Out of the 23,722 occupied housing units in Decatur, 63.3% are owner-occupied, while 36.7% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 6.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
23,722
-0.7% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
8,713
Owner occupied
15,009
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 8,713 36.7% -1.4%
Owner occupied 15,009 63.3% -0.3%
Unoccupied housing units
6.9%
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.

Decatur housing costs

Housing costs in Decatur come to a median of $884 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $896.

Median housing costs per month
$884/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 Decatur
$896/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 Decatur

Decatur education at a glance

About 40.6% of the population in Decatur went to high school, while 24.1% pursued college studies. Another 8.4% earned an associate degree and 14.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 2,673 6.1% -20.8%
High school diploma 17,754 40.6% -0.4%
College diploma 10,524 24.1% 0.1%
Associate degree 3,659 8.4% 11.9%
Bachelor's degree 6,244 14.3% -2.6%
Graduate degree 2,843 6.5% 0.1%
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 Decatur

How much people earn in Decatur

The average annual household income in Decatur was $82,134 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +1.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $61,563, reflecting a +2.9% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Decatur
$82,134/year
1.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Decatur
$61,563/year
2.9% year-over-year change

Decatur income by age

In Decatur, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $59,863. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $75,205 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $62,428, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $46,447 in earnings. Overall, 87.6% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $62,428 -4.2%
25 - 44 $59,863 4.9%
45 - 64 $75,205 -1.8%
Over 65 $46,447 1.1%
Above poverty level
48,546
Below poverty level
6,880
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 48,546 87.6% -0.1%
Below poverty level 6,880 12.4% 1.5%

Average renter income in Decatur

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Decatur, their median household income was $33,050 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 32.5%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$33,050
Rent-to-income ratio
32.5%
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 Decatur

Workforce and job types in Decatur

The job market in Decatur is powered by 25,529 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 65.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 34.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8% run their own businesses, 73% are employed by private companies, and 11.5% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
25,529
-0.5% year-over-year change
White collar
16,817
Blue collar
8,712
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 16,817 65.9% -1.2%
Blue collar 8,712 34.1% 0.9%
Employer type
Self employees
8%
Private companies
73%
Governmental workers
11.5%
Not for profit companies
7.5%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 2,052 8% 0.3%
Private companies 18,633 73% 0.1%
Governmental workers 2,938 11.5% -4.1%
Not for profit companies 1,906 7.5% -0.8%
Unemployment rate
4.4%
-11.2% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Decatur stands at 4.4%, 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 Decatur

How people get around in Decatur

In Decatur, the average commute time is 21 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 90.1% 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
21 min
2.4% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 22,390 90.1% -4.4%
Bus or trolleybus 119 0.5% 77.6%
Motorcycle 102 0.4% 168.4%
Bicycle 28 0.1% 47.4%
Walk 302 1.2% 35.4%
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 Decatur by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35601 35,449 13,938 $51,429 $69,058
35603 32,179 13,175 $81,490 $102,426

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FAQs about Decatur demographics 

What is the total population of Decatur?

Decatur has a total population of 57,361 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 -0.7% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Decatur?

The gender ratio in Decatur is as follows:
  • 50.1% males (28,715 residents)
  • 49.9% females (28,646 residents)

What is the median age in Decatur?

The median age in Decatur is 39.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Decatur?

The age distribution in Decatur is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.3% (11,079 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.3% (7,060 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.2% (14,452 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.1% (14,414 residents)
  • Over 65: 18% (10,356 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Decatur?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Decatur is as follows:
  • White: 58.2% (33,404 residents)
  • Black or African American: 24.2% (13,883 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 1.1% (636 residents)
  • Asian: 0.9% (496 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0.4% (252 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 7.2% (4,139 residents)
  • Other: 7.9% (4,551 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 90.8% of the population in Decatur.

How many housing units are there in Decatur?

There are 25,467 housing units in Decatur, reflecting a -0.7% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Decatur has a total of 23,722 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Decatur?

Decatur has a median household income of $61,563, representing a +2.9% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 95.6% in Decatur, with a workforce of 25,529 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 65.9% (16,817 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 34.1% (8,712 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8% (2,052 residents)
  • Private companies: 73% (18,633 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.5% (2,938 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.5% (1,906 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