Selma, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
17,057
-2.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$33,197/yr
3.1% year-over-year change
Housing units
9,431
-0.2% year-over-year change

Selma population

How many people live in Selma

Selma is home to 17,057 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44% of Selma locals are male, and 56% are female.

Total population
17,057
-2.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44%
7,509
Female
56%
9,548
Value Percent YoY change
Male 7,509 44% -2.2%
Female 9,548 56% -2.2%
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 Selma is 38, with the population distributed as follows: about 18.5% are children under 15, then 14.3% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 23.5% of the population, while another 24.9% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 18.7% are 65 or older.

Median age
38.5
Age breakdown
Under 15
18.5%
15 to 24
14.3%
25 to 44
23.5%
45 to 64
24.9%
Over 65
18.7%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,160 18.5% 2.4%
15 to 24 2,442 14.3% -4.5%
25 to 44 4,011 23.5% 0.9%
45 to 64 4,251 24.9% -2.5%
Over 65 3,193 18.7% -7.7%
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 Selma, 96.1% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.9% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 15.1% of locals are Caucasian, 82.6% are African American and 1.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 0.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
96.1%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2%
Non-citizens
1.9%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 16,392 96.1% -2.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 341 2% 14.8%
Non-citizens 324 1.9% 4.5%
Racial breakdown
White
15.1%
Black or African American
82.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
1.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
0.8%
Other
0.2%
Value Percent
White 2,576 15.1%
Black or African American 14,080 82.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 45 0.3%
Asian 199 1.2%
Two or more races 132 0.8%
Other 25 0.2%

Households in Selma

A peek inside Selma households

Selma has 7,974 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 52.4% are families, while the remaining 47.6% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
7,974
2.3% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
3,799
Family households
4,175
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 3,799 47.6% -2.1%
Family households 4,175 52.4% 6.6%
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 Selma

The housing landscape of Selma

Selma's housing consists of 9,431 units, with 62.5% 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 1.4% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
9,431
-0.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 5,897 62.5%
1 unit, attached 86 0.9%
2 units 674 7.2%
3 or 4 units 1,633 17.3%
5 to 9 units 694 7.4%
10 to 19 units 88 0.9%
20 to 49 units 166 1.8%
50 or more units 64 0.7%
Mobile home 129 1.4%
Homes built since 2020
10
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Selma

In Selma, the median construction year is 1971. About 8.3% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 8.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 7.8% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 3.2% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.1% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 786 8.3% -30.0%
Built between 1940 and 1949 793 8.4% -13.3%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,447 15.3% 15.7%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,380 14.6% -12.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,152 22.8% 5.0%
Built between 1980 and 1989 991 10.5% 11.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 834 8.8% 28.3%
Built between 2000 and 2009 740 7.8% 6.9%
Built between 2010 and 2019 298 3.2% -4.8%
Built in 2020 or later 10 0.1% N/A
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.

Selma occupancy rates

Out of the 7,974 occupied housing units in Selma, 46% are owner-occupied, while 54% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 15.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
7,974
2.3% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
4,309
Owner occupied
3,665
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 4,309 54% 2.5%
Owner occupied 3,665 46% 2.1%
Unoccupied housing units
15.4%
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.

Selma housing costs

Housing costs in Selma come to a median of $618 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $713.

Median housing costs per month
$618/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 Selma
$713/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 Selma

Selma education at a glance

About 48.9% of the population in Selma went to high school, while 20.9% pursued college studies. Another 10.2% earned an associate degree and 11.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 6.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 301 2.3% -28.7%
High school diploma 6,314 48.9% 4.0%
College diploma 2,695 20.9% -17.2%
Associate degree 1,312 10.2% -0.3%
Bachelor's degree 1,434 11.1% 1.6%
Graduate degree 860 6.7% -3.5%
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 Selma

How much people earn in Selma

The average annual household income in Selma was $51,811 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -0.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $33,197, reflecting a +3.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Selma
$51,811/year
-0.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Selma
$33,197/year
3.1% year-over-year change

Selma income by age

In Selma, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $48,529. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $34,322 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $9,548, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $28,527 in earnings. Overall, 69.9% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $9,548 -7.9%
25 - 44 $48,529 5.5%
45 - 64 $34,322 -8.5%
Over 65 $28,527 -5.4%
Above poverty level
11,389
Below poverty level
4,913
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 11,389 69.9% -5.1%
Below poverty level 4,913 30.1% 6.1%

Average renter income in Selma

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Selma, their median household income was $20,180 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 42.4%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$20,180
Rent-to-income ratio
42.4%
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 Selma

Workforce and job types in Selma

The job market in Selma is powered by 6,421 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 70.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 29.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.5% run their own businesses, 69.3% are employed by private companies, and 17% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
6,421
3.2% year-over-year change
White collar
4,546
Blue collar
1,875
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 4,546 70.8% 10.0%
Blue collar 1,875 29.2% -10.2%
Employer type
Self employees
8.5%
Private companies
69.3%
Governmental workers
17%
Not for profit companies
5.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 545 8.5% 15.2%
Private companies 4,452 69.3% -0.3%
Governmental workers 1,089 17% 7.3%
Not for profit companies 335 5.2% 25.5%
Unemployment rate
14.0%
-0.3% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Selma stands at 14%, 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 Selma

How people get around in Selma

Commuting methods vary: 89.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 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 5,699 89.6% 1.3%
Bus or trolleybus 74 1.2% 60.9%
Walk 125 2% -3.9%
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 Selma by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
36701 22,183 9,112 $39,815 $56,683
36703 9,125 4,543 $32,227 $49,439

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FAQs about Selma demographics 

What is the total population of Selma?

Selma has a total population of 17,057 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 -2.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Selma?

The gender ratio in Selma is as follows:
  • 44% males (7,509 residents)
  • 56% females (9,548 residents)

What is the median age in Selma?

The median age in Selma is 38.5.

What is the age distribution of the population in Selma?

The age distribution in Selma is as follows:
  • Under 15: 18.5% (3,160 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 14.3% (2,442 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 23.5% (4,011 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.9% (4,251 residents)
  • Over 65: 18.7% (3,193 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Selma?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Selma is as follows:
  • White: 15.1% (2,576 residents)
  • Black or African American: 82.6% (14,080 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (45 residents)
  • Asian: 1.2% (199 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 0.8% (132 residents)
  • Other: 0.2% (25 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 96.1% of the population in Selma.

How many housing units are there in Selma?

There are 9,431 housing units in Selma, reflecting a -0.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Selma has a total of 7,974 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Selma?

Selma has a median household income of $33,197, representing a +3.1% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 86% in Selma, with a workforce of 6,421 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 70.8% (4,546 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 29.2% (1,875 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.5% (545 residents)
  • Private companies: 69.3% (4,452 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 17% (1,089 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 5.2% (335 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