Gardendale, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,534
2.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$82,192/yr
1.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
7,001
9.8% year-over-year change

Gardendale population

How many people live in Gardendale

Gardendale is home to 16,534 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.2% of Gardendale locals are male, and 54.8% are female.

Total population
16,534
2.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.2%
7,468
Female
54.8%
9,066
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,468 45.2% 2.4%
Female 9,066 54.8% 2.8%
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 Gardendale is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.3% are children under 15, then 11.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.4% of the population, while another 22.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 17.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
38
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.3%
15 to 24
11.4%
25 to 44
27.4%
45 to 64
22.3%
Over 65
17.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,517 21.3% -8.3%
15 to 24 1,881 11.4% 26.6%
25 to 44 4,528 27.4% -0.2%
45 to 64 3,688 22.3% 11.1%
Over 65 2,920 17.7% -0.4%
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 Gardendale, 98.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.4% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 70% of locals are Caucasian, 21.2% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.9% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.1%
Non-citizens
0.4%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,285 98.5% 3.0%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 184 1.1% -17.5%
Non-citizens 65 0.4% -5.8%
Racial breakdown
White
70%
Black or African American
21.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.9%
Other
3.3%
Value Percent
White 11,578 70%
Black or African American 3,512 21.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 34 0.2%
Asian 58 0.4%
Two or more races 812 4.9%
Other 540 3.3%

Households in Gardendale

A peek inside Gardendale households

Gardendale has 6,592 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 66.2% are families, while the remaining 33.8% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,592
5.4% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,226
Family households
4,366
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,226 33.8% 3.7%
Family households 4,366 66.2% 6.2%
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 Gardendale

The housing landscape of Gardendale

Gardendale's housing consists of 7,001 units, with 74.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.5% 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 3.5% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
7,001
9.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,236 74.8%
1 unit, attached 175 2.5%
2 units 12 0.2%
3 or 4 units 194 2.8%
5 to 9 units 393 5.6%
10 to 19 units 572 8.2%
20 to 49 units 83 1.2%
50 or more units 90 1.3%
Mobile home 246 3.5%
Homes built since 2020
177
33.1% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gardendale

In Gardendale, the median construction year is 1988. About 2.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 2.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 19.7% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 13% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 163 2.3% -5.8%
Built between 1940 and 1949 174 2.5% -12.6%
Built between 1950 and 1959 376 5.4% -1.6%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,172 16.7% 48.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 973 13.9% 0.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 842 12% 24.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 835 11.9% 18.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,378 19.7% 5.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 911 13% -12.6%
Built in 2020 or later 177 2.5% 33.1%
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.

Gardendale occupancy rates

Out of the 6,592 occupied housing units in Gardendale, 78.2% are owner-occupied, while 21.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,592
5.4% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,437
Owner occupied
5,155
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,437 21.8% 23.2%
Owner occupied 5,155 78.2% 1.3%
Unoccupied housing units
5.8%
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.

Gardendale housing costs

Housing costs in Gardendale come to a median of $1,269 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,299.

Median housing costs per month
$1,269/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 Gardendale
$1,299/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 Gardendale

Gardendale education at a glance

About 34.4% of the population in Gardendale went to high school, while 23% pursued college studies. Another 11.5% earned an associate degree and 18.2% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 10.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 280 2.3% -7.3%
High school diploma 4,267 34.4% 14.9%
College diploma 2,849 23% 21.0%
Associate degree 1,429 11.5% -1.2%
Bachelor's degree 2,261 18.2% -9.4%
Graduate degree 1,326 10.7% -11.3%
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 Gardendale

How much people earn in Gardendale

The average annual household income in Gardendale was $103,903 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $82,192, reflecting a +1.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gardendale
$103,903/year
-1.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gardendale
$82,192/year
1.2% year-over-year change

Gardendale income by age

In Gardendale, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $118,009. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,528 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $58,548, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $60,044 in earnings. Overall, 95.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $58,548 14.3%
25 - 44 $118,009 -10.3%
45 - 64 $86,528 6.4%
Over 65 $60,044 1.1%
Above poverty level
14,955
Below poverty level
677
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,955 95.7% 5.2%
Below poverty level 677 4.3% -24.9%

Average renter income in Gardendale

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Gardendale, their median household income was $49,663 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 31.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$49,663
Rent-to-income ratio
31.4%
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 Gardendale

Workforce and job types in Gardendale

The job market in Gardendale is powered by 7,958 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 75.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 24.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 7.2% run their own businesses, 64.3% are employed by private companies, and 11.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
7,958
7.5% year-over-year change
White collar
5,973
Blue collar
1,985
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,973 75.1% 1.4%
Blue collar 1,985 24.9% 31.3%
Employer type
Self employees
7.2%
Private companies
64.3%
Governmental workers
11.2%
Not for profit companies
17.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 574 7.2% 7.9%
Private companies 5,117 64.3% 16.2%
Governmental workers 891 11.2% 15.0%
Not for profit companies 1,376 17.3% -18.7%
Unemployment rate
3.4%
13.1% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gardendale stands at 3.4%, 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 Gardendale

How people get around in Gardendale

Commuting methods vary: 86.7% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% 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 6,843 86.7% 4.8%
Bus or trolleybus 3 0% 50.0%
Walk 55 0.7% 34.1%
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 Gardendale by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35068 8,378 3,702 $73,750 $88,119
35071 17,288 6,865 $82,074 $106,948
35207 7,709 3,112 $31,486 $45,052
35217 12,240 5,206 $40,486 $52,033

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FAQs about Gardendale demographics 

What is the total population of Gardendale?

Gardendale has a total population of 16,534 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 +2.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gardendale?

The gender ratio in Gardendale is as follows:
  • 45.2% males (7,468 residents)
  • 54.8% females (9,066 residents)

What is the median age in Gardendale?

The median age in Gardendale is 38.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gardendale?

The age distribution in Gardendale is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.3% (3,517 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.4% (1,881 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.4% (4,528 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 22.3% (3,688 residents)
  • Over 65: 17.7% (2,920 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gardendale?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gardendale is as follows:
  • White: 70% (11,578 residents)
  • Black or African American: 21.2% (3,512 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (34 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (58 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.9% (812 residents)
  • Other: 3.3% (540 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.5% of the population in Gardendale.

How many housing units are there in Gardendale?

There are 7,001 housing units in Gardendale, reflecting a +9.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gardendale has a total of 6,592 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gardendale?

Gardendale has a median household income of $82,192, representing a +1.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.6% in Gardendale, with a workforce of 7,958 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 75.1% (5,973 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 24.9% (1,985 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 7.2% (574 residents)
  • Private companies: 64.3% (5,117 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.2% (891 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 17.3% (1,376 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