Rainbow City, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
10,284
0.7% year-over-year change
Median household income
$56,398/yr
-5.5% year-over-year change
Housing units
4,693
2.8% year-over-year change

Rainbow City population

How many people live in Rainbow City

Rainbow City is home to 10,284 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 45.5% of Rainbow City locals are male, and 54.5% are female.

Total population
10,284
0.7% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
45.5%
4,678
Female
54.5%
5,606
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,678 45.5% 2.2%
Female 5,606 54.5% -0.5%
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 Rainbow City is 42, with the population distributed as follows: about 20% are children under 15, then 10.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 22.2% of the population, while another 28.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.9% are 65 or older.

Median age
41.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
20%
15 to 24
10.4%
25 to 44
22.2%
45 to 64
28.5%
Over 65
18.9%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,062 20% 2.6%
15 to 24 1,065 10.4% -3.7%
25 to 44 2,278 22.2% -7.4%
45 to 64 2,932 28.5% 5.0%
Over 65 1,947 18.9% 5.4%
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 Rainbow City, 94.4% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.5% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 3.2% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 79.1% of locals are Caucasian, 11.8% are African American and 2.4% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 4.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
94.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.5%
Non-citizens
3.2%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,705 94.4% 1.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 255 2.5% -5.2%
Non-citizens 324 3.2% -5.5%
Racial breakdown
White
79.1%
Black or African American
11.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.7%
Asian
2.4%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
4.8%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 8,132 79.1%
Black or African American 1,216 11.8%
American Indian and Alaska Native 69 0.7%
Asian 251 2.4%
Two or more races 491 4.8%
Other 125 1.2%

Households in Rainbow City

A peek inside Rainbow City households

Rainbow City has 4,131 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 68.4% are families, while the remaining 31.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,131
6.5% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,306
Family households
2,825
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,306 31.6% 15.7%
Family households 2,825 68.4% 2.8%
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 Rainbow City

The housing landscape of Rainbow City

Rainbow City's housing consists of 4,693 units, with 67.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.1% 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 7.3% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
4,693
2.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,153 67.2%
1 unit, attached 5 0.1%
2 units 13 0.3%
3 or 4 units 374 8%
5 to 9 units 414 8.8%
10 to 19 units 247 5.3%
20 to 49 units 63 1.3%
50 or more units 82 1.8%
Mobile home 342 7.3%
Homes built since 2020
128
161.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Rainbow City

In Rainbow City, the median construction year is 1990. About 0.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 0.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 22.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 6.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 2.7% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 16 0.3% -40.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 18 0.4% -5.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 159 3.4% 8.9%
Built between 1960 and 1969 628 13.4% 26.6%
Built between 1970 and 1979 991 21.1% -11.8%
Built between 1980 and 1989 543 11.6% -21.5%
Built between 1990 and 1999 876 18.7% 27.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 1,042 22.2% 4.8%
Built between 2010 and 2019 292 6.2% -11.8%
Built in 2020 or later 128 2.7% 161.2%
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.

Rainbow City occupancy rates

Out of the 4,131 occupied housing units in Rainbow City, 65.6% are owner-occupied, while 34.4% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 12% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,131
6.5% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,420
Owner occupied
2,711
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,420 34.4% 1.9%
Owner occupied 2,711 65.6% 9.1%
Unoccupied housing units
12.0%
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.

Rainbow City housing costs

Housing costs in Rainbow City come to a median of $940 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $1,048.

Median housing costs per month
$940/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 Rainbow City
$1,048/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 Rainbow City

Rainbow City education at a glance

About 43.6% of the population in Rainbow City went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 11.9% earned an associate degree and 11.6% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 8% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 323 4% -25.6%
High school diploma 3,477 43.6% 9.0%
College diploma 1,665 20.9% 2.5%
Associate degree 949 11.9% -7.1%
Bachelor's degree 926 11.6% -15.2%
Graduate degree 635 8% 21.4%
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 Rainbow City

How much people earn in Rainbow City

The average annual household income in Rainbow City was $95,633 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -4.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $56,398, reflecting a -5.5% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Rainbow City
$95,633/year
-4.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Rainbow City
$56,398/year
-5.5% year-over-year change

Rainbow City income by age

In Rainbow City, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $61,042. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $61,940 overall. Overall, 89.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $61,042 11.5%
45 - 64 $61,940 -36.7%
Over 65 $48,681 -4.5%
Above poverty level
9,103
Below poverty level
1,021
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,103 89.9% -0.4%
Below poverty level 1,021 10.1% 8.6%

Employment in Rainbow City

Workforce and job types in Rainbow City

The job market in Rainbow City is powered by 4,034 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 76.6% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 23.4% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.8% run their own businesses, 71.8% are employed by private companies, and 12.1% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,034
0.7% year-over-year change
White collar
3,092
Blue collar
942
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,092 76.6% -2.7%
Blue collar 942 23.4% 13.6%
Employer type
Self employees
11.8%
Private companies
71.8%
Governmental workers
12.1%
Not for profit companies
4.4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 475 11.8% 10.2%
Private companies 2,895 71.8% -0.3%
Governmental workers 488 12.1% 2.5%
Not for profit companies 176 4.4% -9.7%
Unemployment rate
10.3%
23.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Rainbow City stands at 10.3%, 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 Rainbow City

How people get around in Rainbow City

Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 3,528 89.4% 1.0%
Ferryboat 16 0.4% N/A
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 Rainbow City by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35906 10,446 4,207 $56,420 $95,257

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FAQs about Rainbow City demographics 

What is the total population of Rainbow City?

Rainbow City has a total population of 10,284 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 Rainbow City?

The gender ratio in Rainbow City is as follows:
  • 45.5% males (4,678 residents)
  • 54.5% females (5,606 residents)

What is the median age in Rainbow City?

The median age in Rainbow City is 41.7.

What is the age distribution of the population in Rainbow City?

The age distribution in Rainbow City is as follows:
  • Under 15: 20% (2,062 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 10.4% (1,065 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 22.2% (2,278 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.5% (2,932 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.9% (1,947 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Rainbow City?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Rainbow City is as follows:
  • White: 79.1% (8,132 residents)
  • Black or African American: 11.8% (1,216 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.7% (69 residents)
  • Asian: 2.4% (251 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 4.8% (491 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (125 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 94.4% of the population in Rainbow City.

How many housing units are there in Rainbow City?

There are 4,693 housing units in Rainbow City, reflecting a +2.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Rainbow City has a total of 4,131 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Rainbow City?

Rainbow City has a median household income of $56,398, representing a -5.5% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

What is the employment rate and job market overview for Rainbow City?

The employment rate is 89.7% in Rainbow City, with a workforce of 4,034 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 76.6% (3,092 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 23.4% (942 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.8% (475 residents)
  • Private companies: 71.8% (2,895 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.1% (488 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4.4% (176 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