Pickens County, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
18,721
-0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$46,274/yr
-1.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
8,729
0.0% year-over-year change

Pickens County population

How many people live in Pickens County

Pickens County is home to 18,721 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50.5% of Pickens County locals are male, and 49.5% are female.

Total population
18,721
-0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50.5%
9,446
Female
49.5%
9,275
Value Percent YoY change
Male 9,446 50.5% 3.7%
Female 9,275 49.5% -4.7%
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 Pickens County is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 15.7% are children under 15, then 12.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 26.5% of the population, while another 25.8% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
42.2
Age breakdown
Under 15
15.7%
15 to 24
12.2%
25 to 44
26.5%
45 to 64
25.8%
Over 65
19.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,931 15.7% -2.5%
15 to 24 2,274 12.2% 2.2%
25 to 44 4,969 26.5% 1.2%
45 to 64 4,824 25.8% -4.1%
Over 65 3,723 19.9% 1.3%
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 Pickens County, 96.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.8% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 2.6% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 2.4% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.8%
Non-citizens
2.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 18,090 96.6% 0.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 150 0.8% -40.2%
Non-citizens 481 2.6% -25.0%
Racial breakdown
White
55.9%
Black or African American
40.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
2.4%
Other
0.4%
Value Percent
White 10,468 55.9%
Black or African American 7,663 40.9%
American Indian and Alaska Native 61 0.3%
Asian 10 0%
Two or more races 448 2.4%
Other 71 0.4%

Households in Pickens County

A peek inside Pickens County households

Pickens County has 6,764 households, with an average of 3 members in each. Of these, 59.3% are families, while the remaining 40.7% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
6,764
-2.6% year-over-year change
Average people per household
3
Non-family households
2,750
Family households
4,014
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,750 40.7% 4.2%
Family households 4,014 59.3% -6.8%
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 Pickens County

The housing landscape of Pickens County

Pickens County's housing consists of 8,729 units, with 65.3% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.5% 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 24.2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
8,729
0.0% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,702 65.3%
1 unit, attached 40 0.5%
2 units 251 2.9%
3 or 4 units 313 3.6%
5 to 9 units 112 1.3%
10 to 19 units 129 1.5%
20 to 49 units 2 0%
50 or more units 33 0.4%
Mobile home 2,117 24.2%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 30 0.3%
Homes built since 2020
93
38.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Pickens County

In Pickens County, the median construction year is 1979. About 5.4% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 4.3% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 11.1% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 5.5% 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 467 5.4% -3.3%
Built between 1940 and 1949 377 4.3% 14.9%
Built between 1950 and 1959 618 7.1% -6.4%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,339 15.3% 22.4%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,714 19.6% 3.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,128 12.9% -7.7%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,546 17.7% -14.6%
Built between 2000 and 2009 966 11.1% -6.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 481 5.5% 31.8%
Built in 2020 or later 93 1.1% 38.8%
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.

Pickens County occupancy rates

Out of the 6,764 occupied housing units in Pickens County, 75.8% are owner-occupied, while 24.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 22.5% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
6,764
-2.6% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,636
Owner occupied
5,128
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,636 24.2% -4.1%
Owner occupied 5,128 75.8% -2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
22.5%
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.

Pickens County housing costs

Housing costs in Pickens County come to a median of $592 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $648.

Median housing costs per month
$592/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 Pickens County
$648/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 Pickens County

Pickens County education at a glance

About 52.8% of the population in Pickens County went to high school, while 20% pursued college studies. Another 8.6% earned an associate degree and 7.8% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 4.4% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 964 6.4% -16.1%
High school diploma 7,986 52.8% 5.1%
College diploma 3,033 20% -4.7%
Associate degree 1,294 8.6% 2.0%
Bachelor's degree 1,189 7.8% -13.8%
Graduate degree 671 4.4% 7.2%
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 Pickens County

How much people earn in Pickens County

The average annual household income in Pickens County was $68,757 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +3.2% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $46,274, reflecting a -1.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Pickens County
$68,757/year
3.2% year-over-year change
Median household income in Pickens County
$46,274/year
-1.6% year-over-year change

Pickens County income by age

In Pickens County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $47,247. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $53,750 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $47,188, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $36,991 in earnings. Overall, 80.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $47,188 N/A
25 - 44 $47,247 3.3%
45 - 64 $53,750 -5.5%
Over 65 $36,991 -3.3%
Above poverty level
13,494
Below poverty level
3,346
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 13,494 80.1% 2.3%
Below poverty level 3,346 19.9% -11.5%

Employment in Pickens County

Workforce and job types in Pickens County

The job market in Pickens County is powered by 6,743 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 59.1% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 40.9% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 9.6% run their own businesses, 67% are employed by private companies, and 16.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,743
-1.9% year-over-year change
White collar
3,983
Blue collar
2,760
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,983 59.1% -4.2%
Blue collar 2,760 40.9% 1.6%
Employer type
Self employees
9.6%
Private companies
67%
Governmental workers
16.1%
Not for profit companies
7.3%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 648 9.6% -0.1%
Private companies 4,519 67% 0.5%
Governmental workers 1,085 16.1% -11.9%
Not for profit companies 491 7.3% -1.6%
Unemployment rate
4.7%
-30.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Pickens County stands at 4.7%, 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 Pickens County

How people get around in Pickens County

Commuting methods vary: 94% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.2% 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 6,063 94% -2.0%
Bus or trolleybus 52 0.8% -30.7%
Walk 12 0.2% -45.5%
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 Pickens County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35442 5,230 1,451 $44,503 $71,174
35447 3,309 1,278 $40,000 $68,472
35461 2,017 889 $47,375 $69,929
35466 4,906 1,771 $53,083 $76,446
35481 3,132 1,362 $45,207 $55,154
35574 1,225 440 $41,818 $69,720
35576 3,597 1,287 $72,292 $76,687

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FAQs about Pickens County demographics 

What is the total population of Pickens County?

Pickens County has a total population of 18,721 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 Pickens County?

The gender ratio in Pickens County is as follows:
  • 50.5% males (9,446 residents)
  • 49.5% females (9,275 residents)

What is the median age in Pickens County?

The median age in Pickens County is 42.2.

What is the age distribution of the population in Pickens County?

The age distribution in Pickens County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 15.7% (2,931 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.2% (2,274 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 26.5% (4,969 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.8% (4,824 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.9% (3,723 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Pickens County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Pickens County is as follows:
  • White: 55.9% (10,468 residents)
  • Black or African American: 40.9% (7,663 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (61 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (10 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 2.4% (448 residents)
  • Other: 0.4% (71 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.6% of the population in Pickens County.

How many housing units are there in Pickens County?

There are 8,729 housing units in Pickens County, reflecting a +0.0% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Pickens County has a total of 6,764 households, with an average of 3 people in each.

What is the median household income in Pickens County?

Pickens County has a median household income of $46,274, representing a -1.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Pickens County?

The employment rate is 95.3% in Pickens County, with a workforce of 6,743 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 59.1% (3,983 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 40.9% (2,760 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 9.6% (648 residents)
  • Private companies: 67% (4,519 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16.1% (1,085 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 7.3% (491 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