Gulf Shores, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
16,401
3.9% year-over-year change
Median household income
$78,188/yr
5.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
15,263
4.1% year-over-year change

Gulf Shores population

How many people live in Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores is home to 16,401 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.1% of Gulf Shores locals are male, and 55.9% are female.

Total population
16,401
3.9% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.1%
7,238
Female
55.9%
9,163
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,238 44.1% 3.3%
Female 9,163 55.9% 4.4%
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 Gulf Shores is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 12% are children under 15, then 11.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 20.9% of the population, while another 29.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
12%
15 to 24
11.3%
25 to 44
20.9%
45 to 64
29.9%
Over 65
25.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,969 12% 39.0%
15 to 24 1,851 11.3% -4.8%
25 to 44 3,421 20.9% -0.6%
45 to 64 4,911 29.9% 0.6%
Over 65 4,249 25.9% 3.6%
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 Gulf Shores, 91% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.9% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 5.1% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.8% of locals are Caucasian, 2.7% are African American and 1.1% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 3.7% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
91%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.9%
Non-citizens
5.1%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 14,927 91% 5.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 635 3.9% -15.7%
Non-citizens 839 5.1% -9.2%
Racial breakdown
White
88.8%
Black or African American
2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.4%
Asian
1.1%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.7%
Other
3.2%
Value Percent
White 14,569 88.8%
Black or African American 439 2.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 68 0.4%
Asian 187 1.1%
Two or more races 613 3.7%
Other 525 3.2%

Households in Gulf Shores

A peek inside Gulf Shores households

Gulf Shores has 7,542 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.9% are families, while the remaining 39.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,542
3.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,950
Family households
4,592
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,950 39.1% 0.1%
Family households 4,592 60.9% 6.4%
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 Gulf Shores

The housing landscape of Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores's housing consists of 15,263 units, with 43.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.9% 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 0.9% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
15,263
4.1% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 6,607 43.3%
1 unit, attached 447 2.9%
2 units 367 2.4%
3 or 4 units 622 4.1%
5 to 9 units 1,041 6.8%
10 to 19 units 1,528 10%
20 to 49 units 1,104 7.2%
50 or more units 3,410 22.3%
Mobile home 137 0.9%
Homes built since 2020
993
66.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Gulf Shores

In Gulf Shores, the median construction year is 2000. About 0.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.1% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 33.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 10.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 6.5% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 45 0.3% -41.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 22 0.1% 175.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 123 0.8% -14.0%
Built between 1960 and 1969 444 2.9% -4.9%
Built between 1970 and 1979 833 5.5% -4.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 3,249 21.3% -11.4%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,785 18.2% 8.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,121 33.6% 2.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,648 10.8% 28.8%
Built in 2020 or later 993 6.5% 66.0%
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.

Gulf Shores occupancy rates

Out of the 7,542 occupied housing units in Gulf Shores, 70.6% are owner-occupied, while 29.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 50.6% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,542
3.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,216
Owner occupied
5,326
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,216 29.4% -8.1%
Owner occupied 5,326 70.6% 9.8%
Unoccupied housing units
50.6%
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.

Gulf Shores housing costs

Housing costs in Gulf Shores come to a median of $1,324 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,483.

Median housing costs per month
$1,324/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 Gulf Shores
$1,483/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 Gulf Shores

Gulf Shores education at a glance

About 25.1% of the population in Gulf Shores went to high school, while 26% pursued college studies. Another 9.4% earned an associate degree and 25.5% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 12.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 182 1.3% -33.6%
High school diploma 3,398 25.1% -3.8%
College diploma 3,525 26% 0.5%
Associate degree 1,271 9.4% -0.8%
Bachelor's degree 3,459 25.5% 13.8%
Graduate degree 1,716 12.7% -6.2%
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 Gulf Shores

How much people earn in Gulf Shores

The average annual household income in Gulf Shores was $97,166 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.8% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $78,188, reflecting a +5.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Gulf Shores
$97,166/year
3.8% year-over-year change
Median household income in Gulf Shores
$78,188/year
5.8% year-over-year change

Gulf Shores income by age

In Gulf Shores, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $64,239. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $86,565 overall. Overall, 88.5% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $64,239 -1.5%
45 - 64 $86,565 7.4%
Over 65 $75,547 0.0%
Above poverty level
14,461
Below poverty level
1,880
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 14,461 88.5% 3.7%
Below poverty level 1,880 11.5% 5.1%

Average renter income in Gulf Shores

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Gulf Shores, their median household income was $41,645 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.7%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$41,645
Rent-to-income ratio
42.7%
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 Gulf Shores

Workforce and job types in Gulf Shores

The job market in Gulf Shores is powered by 8,153 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 82% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 18% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 22.2% run their own businesses, 62% are employed by private companies, and 10.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
8,153
-0.1% year-over-year change
White collar
6,688
Blue collar
1,465
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 6,688 82% 2.8%
Blue collar 1,465 18% -11.4%
Employer type
Self employees
22.2%
Private companies
62%
Governmental workers
10.6%
Not for profit companies
5.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,808 22.2% 8.3%
Private companies 5,052 62% -1.8%
Governmental workers 864 10.6% -4.6%
Not for profit companies 429 5.3% -2.3%
Unemployment rate
2.4%
-7.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Gulf Shores stands at 2.4%, 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 Gulf Shores

How people get around in Gulf Shores

Commuting methods vary: 77.5% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.4% 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 6,218 77.5% -4.8%
Motorcycle 79 1% 29.5%
Walk 36 0.4% 16.1%
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 Gulf Shores by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
36542 18,906 8,347 $79,639 $98,767

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FAQs about Gulf Shores demographics 

What is the total population of Gulf Shores?

Gulf Shores has a total population of 16,401 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 +3.9% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Gulf Shores?

The gender ratio in Gulf Shores is as follows:
  • 44.1% males (7,238 residents)
  • 55.9% females (9,163 residents)

What is the median age in Gulf Shores?

The median age in Gulf Shores is 50.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Gulf Shores?

The age distribution in Gulf Shores is as follows:
  • Under 15: 12% (1,969 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.3% (1,851 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 20.9% (3,421 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 29.9% (4,911 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.9% (4,249 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Gulf Shores?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Gulf Shores is as follows:
  • White: 88.8% (14,569 residents)
  • Black or African American: 2.7% (439 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.4% (68 residents)
  • Asian: 1.1% (187 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.7% (613 residents)
  • Other: 3.2% (525 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 91% of the population in Gulf Shores.

How many housing units are there in Gulf Shores?

There are 15,263 housing units in Gulf Shores, reflecting a +4.1% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Gulf Shores has a total of 7,542 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Gulf Shores?

Gulf Shores has a median household income of $78,188, 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 Gulf Shores?

The employment rate is 97.6% in Gulf Shores, with a workforce of 8,153 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 82% (6,688 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 18% (1,465 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 22.2% (1,808 residents)
  • Private companies: 62% (5,052 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 10.6% (864 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.3% (429 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