Helena, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
21,769
1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income
$115,139/yr
5.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,092
1.4% year-over-year change

Helena population

How many people live in Helena

Helena is home to 21,769 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.8% of Helena locals are male, and 52.2% are female.

Total population
21,769
1.5% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.8%
10,413
Female
52.2%
11,356
Value Percent YoY change
Male 10,413 47.8% 1.9%
Female 11,356 52.2% 1.1%
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 Helena is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 21.2% are children under 15, then 13.1% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 25.8% of the population, while another 27.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 12.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
21.2%
15 to 24
13.1%
25 to 44
25.8%
45 to 64
27.3%
Over 65
12.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 4,608 21.2% -4.0%
15 to 24 2,860 13.1% 14.7%
25 to 44 5,627 25.8% -1.2%
45 to 64 5,934 27.3% 5.8%
Over 65 2,740 12.6% -4.1%
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 Helena, 94.5% of the population are US-born citizens, while 3.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.7% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 71.7% of locals are Caucasian, 18% are African American and 2.6% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.6% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.5%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
3.8%
Non-citizens
1.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 20,576 94.5% 0.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 826 3.8% 58.9%
Non-citizens 367 1.7% -4.4%
Racial breakdown
White
71.7%
Black or African American
18%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0%
Asian
2.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.6%
Other
2.1%
Value Percent
White 15,606 71.7%
Black or African American 3,921 18%
Asian 555 2.6%
Two or more races 1,225 5.6%
Other 462 2.1%

Households in Helena

A peek inside Helena households

Helena has 7,613 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 77.9% are families, while the remaining 22.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,613
0.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
1,684
Family households
5,929
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,684 22.1% -10.2%
Family households 5,929 77.9% 4.6%
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 Helena

The housing landscape of Helena

Helena's housing consists of 8,092 units, with 94.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2% 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 0.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,092
1.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 7,673 94.8%
1 unit, attached 162 2%
2 units 44 0.5%
5 to 9 units 69 0.8%
50 or more units 95 1.2%
Mobile home 49 0.6%
Homes built since 2020
395
46.3% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Helena

In Helena, the median construction year is 2001. About 0.8% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 1.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 30.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 17.4% between 2010 and 2019, and 4.9% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 61 0.8% 15.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 108 1.3% 44.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 65 0.8% 38.3%
Built between 1960 and 1969 81 1% -17.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 496 6.1% -5.9%
Built between 1980 and 1989 687 8.5% -15.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,293 28.3% -0.7%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,498 30.9% -3.0%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,408 17.4% 16.0%
Built in 2020 or later 395 4.9% 46.3%
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.

Helena occupancy rates

Out of the 7,613 occupied housing units in Helena, 91.1% are owner-occupied, while 8.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 5.9% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,613
0.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
677
Owner occupied
6,936
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 677 8.9% 0.9%
Owner occupied 6,936 91.1% 0.9%
Unoccupied housing units
5.9%
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.

Helena housing costs

Housing costs in Helena come to a median of $1,568 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,574.

Median housing costs per month
$1,568/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 Helena
$1,574/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 Helena

Helena education at a glance

About 22.8% of the population in Helena went to high school, while 20.2% pursued college studies. Another 7.9% earned an associate degree and 32.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 192 1.2% 4.3%
High school diploma 3,587 22.8% -1.3%
College diploma 3,186 20.2% -4.2%
Associate degree 1,249 7.9% -11.0%
Bachelor's degree 5,103 32.4% 10.1%
Graduate degree 2,439 15.5% 4.7%
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 Helena

How much people earn in Helena

The average annual household income in Helena was $145,537 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +6.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $115,139, reflecting a +5.1% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Helena
$145,537/year
6.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Helena
$115,139/year
5.1% year-over-year change

Helena income by age

In Helena, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $114,496. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $149,132 overall. Overall, 96.7% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $114,496 5.1%
45 - 64 $149,132 16.9%
Over 65 $66,285 -5.7%
Above poverty level
20,644
Below poverty level
696
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 20,644 96.7% 2.3%
Below poverty level 696 3.3% -12.6%

Employment in Helena

Workforce and job types in Helena

The job market in Helena is powered by 11,597 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 85.4% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 14.6% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 10.4% run their own businesses, 68% are employed by private companies, and 14.2% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
11,597
3.9% year-over-year change
White collar
9,902
Blue collar
1,695
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 9,902 85.4% 2.8%
Blue collar 1,695 14.6% 10.8%
Employer type
Self employees
10.4%
Private companies
68%
Governmental workers
14.2%
Not for profit companies
7.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,204 10.4% 11.6%
Private companies 7,890 68% 4.5%
Governmental workers 1,641 14.2% -1.0%
Not for profit companies 862 7.4% -1.5%
Unemployment rate
2.0%
-4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Helena stands at 2%, 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 Helena

How people get around in Helena

In Helena, the average commute time is 31 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 79.1% 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.

Commute time
31 min
-0.7% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 9,123 79.1% 0.4%
Motorcycle 11 0.1% 57.1%
Walk 45 0.4% -15.1%
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 Helena by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35080 20,251 6,936 $118,344 $149,055
35022 23,126 9,509 $81,846 $99,537

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FAQs about Helena demographics 

What is the total population of Helena?

Helena has a total population of 21,769 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 +1.5% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Helena?

The gender ratio in Helena is as follows:
  • 47.8% males (10,413 residents)
  • 52.2% females (11,356 residents)

What is the median age in Helena?

The median age in Helena is 37.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Helena?

The age distribution in Helena is as follows:
  • Under 15: 21.2% (4,608 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 13.1% (2,860 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 25.8% (5,627 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 27.3% (5,934 residents)
  • Over 65: 12.6% (2,740 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Helena?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Helena is as follows:
  • White: 71.7% (15,606 residents)
  • Black or African American: 18% (3,921 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0% (0 residents)
  • Asian: 2.6% (555 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.6% (1,225 residents)
  • Other: 2.1% (462 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.5% of the population in Helena.

How many housing units are there in Helena?

There are 8,092 housing units in Helena, reflecting a +1.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Helena has a total of 7,613 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Helena?

Helena has a median household income of $115,139, representing a +5.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 98% in Helena, with a workforce of 11,597 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 85.4% (9,902 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 14.6% (1,695 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 10.4% (1,204 residents)
  • Private companies: 68% (7,890 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 14.2% (1,641 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.4% (862 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