Orange Beach, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
8,407
2.0% year-over-year change
Median household income
$97,736/yr
9.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
14,887
-1.2% year-over-year change

Orange Beach population

How many people live in Orange Beach

Orange Beach is home to 8,407 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 47.7% of Orange Beach locals are male, and 52.3% are female.

Total population
8,407
2.0% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
47.7%
4,008
Female
52.3%
4,399
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,008 47.7% 3.1%
Female 4,399 52.3% 1.0%
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 Orange Beach is 51, with the population distributed as follows: about 11.2% are children under 15, then 7.6% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.2% of the population, while another 34.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 23.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
50.6
Age breakdown
Under 15
11.2%
15 to 24
7.6%
25 to 44
23.2%
45 to 64
34.3%
Over 65
23.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 938 11.2% -0.2%
15 to 24 639 7.6% -5.3%
25 to 44 1,954 23.2% 13.9%
45 to 64 2,880 34.3% 10.0%
Over 65 1,996 23.7% -13.0%
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 Orange Beach, 96.2% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.3% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 88.8% of locals are Caucasian, 3.9% are African American and 0.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.2% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.3%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 8,085 96.2% 2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 197 2.3% 3.7%
Non-citizens 125 1.5% -29.4%
Racial breakdown
White
88.8%
Black or African American
3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.2%
Other
1.3%
Value Percent
White 7,470 88.8%
Black or African American 329 3.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 27 0.3%
Asian 33 0.4%
Two or more races 440 5.2%
Other 108 1.3%

Households in Orange Beach

A peek inside Orange Beach households

Orange Beach has 3,911 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 63.4% are families, while the remaining 36.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
3,911
-0.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,431
Family households
2,480
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,431 36.6% -4.0%
Family households 2,480 63.4% 1.6%
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 Orange Beach

The housing landscape of Orange Beach

Orange Beach's housing consists of 14,887 units, with 23.4% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.9% 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 1.7% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
14,887
-1.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,477 23.4%
1 unit, attached 134 0.9%
2 units 414 2.8%
3 or 4 units 347 2.3%
5 to 9 units 401 2.7%
10 to 19 units 815 5.5%
20 to 49 units 1,073 7.2%
50 or more units 7,957 53.4%
Mobile home 254 1.7%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 15 0.1%
Homes built since 2020
197
95.0% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Orange Beach

In Orange Beach, the median construction year is 2000. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 37.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 12.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.3% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 85 0.6% 26.9%
Built between 1940 and 1949 7 0% -12.5%
Built between 1950 and 1959 151 1% 69.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 188 1.3% -29.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 323 2.2% -17.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 2,954 19.8% 1.9%
Built between 1990 and 1999 3,575 24% -7.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 5,595 37.6% -2.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,812 12.2% 9.2%
Built in 2020 or later 197 1.3% 95.0%
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.

Orange Beach occupancy rates

Out of the 3,911 occupied housing units in Orange Beach, 67.5% are owner-occupied, while 32.5% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 73.7% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
3,911
-0.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,271
Owner occupied
2,640
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,271 32.5% -11.2%
Owner occupied 2,640 67.5% 5.6%
Unoccupied housing units
73.7%
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.

Orange Beach housing costs

Housing costs in Orange Beach come to a median of $1,480 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,576.

Median housing costs per month
$1,480/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 Orange Beach
$1,576/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 Orange Beach

Orange Beach education at a glance

About 25.5% of the population in Orange Beach went to high school, while 28.8% pursued college studies. Another 6.1% earned an associate degree and 23.7% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 15.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 36 0.5% -66.0%
High school diploma 1,832 25.5% -16.9%
College diploma 2,073 28.8% 13.0%
Associate degree 436 6.1% 42.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,704 23.7% 9.7%
Graduate degree 1,110 15.4% 13.2%
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 Orange Beach

How much people earn in Orange Beach

The average annual household income in Orange Beach was $131,028 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +12.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $97,736, reflecting a +9.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Orange Beach
$131,028/year
12.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Orange Beach
$97,736/year
9.8% year-over-year change

Orange Beach income by age

In Orange Beach, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $68,725. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $124,189 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $106,071, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $91,472 in earnings. Overall, 97.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $106,071 N/A
25 - 44 $68,725 -14.6%
45 - 64 $124,189 3.5%
Over 65 $91,472 34.0%
Above poverty level
8,117
Below poverty level
215
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 8,117 97.4% 4.5%
Below poverty level 215 2.6% -52.9%

Average renter income in Orange Beach

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Orange Beach, their median household income was $46,318 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 40.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$46,318
Rent-to-income ratio
40.8%
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 Orange Beach

Workforce and job types in Orange Beach

The job market in Orange Beach is powered by 4,670 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 71.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 28.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 24.7% run their own businesses, 59.6% are employed by private companies, and 11.7% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,670
6.6% year-over-year change
White collar
3,347
Blue collar
1,323
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,347 71.7% 6.2%
Blue collar 1,323 28.3% 7.7%
Employer type
Self employees
24.7%
Private companies
59.6%
Governmental workers
11.7%
Not for profit companies
3.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,154 24.7% 1.1%
Private companies 2,785 59.6% -0.5%
Governmental workers 548 11.7% 89.0%
Not for profit companies 183 3.9% 22.0%
Unemployment rate
3.8%
5.7% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Orange Beach stands at 3.8%, 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 Orange Beach

How people get around in Orange Beach

Commuting methods vary: 73.9% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 2.8% 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 3,410 73.9% -1.1%
Motorcycle 21 0.5% N/A
Walk 130 2.8% 242.1%
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 Orange Beach by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
36530 7,409 3,221 $63,393 $100,029
36561 9,528 4,467 $98,295 $138,642

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FAQs about Orange Beach demographics 

What is the total population of Orange Beach?

Orange Beach has a total population of 8,407 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 +2.0% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Orange Beach?

The gender ratio in Orange Beach is as follows:
  • 47.7% males (4,008 residents)
  • 52.3% females (4,399 residents)

What is the median age in Orange Beach?

The median age in Orange Beach is 50.6.

What is the age distribution of the population in Orange Beach?

The age distribution in Orange Beach is as follows:
  • Under 15: 11.2% (938 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 7.6% (639 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.2% (1,954 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 34.3% (2,880 residents)
  • Over 65: 23.7% (1,996 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Orange Beach?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Orange Beach is as follows:
  • White: 88.8% (7,470 residents)
  • Black or African American: 3.9% (329 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (27 residents)
  • Asian: 0.4% (33 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.2% (440 residents)
  • Other: 1.3% (108 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.2% of the population in Orange Beach.

How many housing units are there in Orange Beach?

There are 14,887 housing units in Orange Beach, reflecting a -1.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Orange Beach has a total of 3,911 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Orange Beach?

Orange Beach has a median household income of $97,736, representing a +9.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Orange Beach?

The employment rate is 96.2% in Orange Beach, with a workforce of 4,670 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 71.7% (3,347 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 28.3% (1,323 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 24.7% (1,154 residents)
  • Private companies: 59.6% (2,785 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 11.7% (548 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 3.9% (183 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