Sheffield, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
9,340
0.1% year-over-year change
Median household income
$39,733/yr
-5.6% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,453
7.2% year-over-year change

Sheffield population

How many people live in Sheffield

Sheffield is home to 9,340 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Sheffield locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
9,340
0.1% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
4,667
Female
50%
4,673
Value Percent YoY change
Male 4,667 50% 0.0%
Female 4,673 50% 0.1%
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 Sheffield is 46, with the population distributed as follows: about 14.9% are children under 15, then 12.4% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.7% of the population, while another 25.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 25.6% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.8
Age breakdown
Under 15
14.9%
15 to 24
12.4%
25 to 44
21.7%
45 to 64
25.3%
Over 65
25.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,392 14.9% -12.8%
15 to 24 1,161 12.4% -12.2%
25 to 44 2,028 21.7% -5.4%
45 to 64 2,367 25.3% 4.8%
Over 65 2,392 25.6% 18.8%
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 Sheffield, 97.9% of the population are US-born citizens, while 2.1% have gained naturalized citizenship. As for race, 67.8% of locals are Caucasian, 23.7% are African American and 0.2% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.8% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
97.9%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
2.1%
Non-citizens
0%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 9,146 97.9% -0.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 194 2.1% 24.4%
Racial breakdown
White
67.8%
Black or African American
23.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.2%
Asian
0.2%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.8%
Other
2.4%
Value Percent
White 6,330 67.8%
Black or African American 2,215 23.7%
American Indian and Alaska Native 14 0.2%
Asian 14 0.2%
Two or more races 539 5.8%
Other 228 2.4%

Households in Sheffield

A peek inside Sheffield households

Sheffield has 4,732 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 43.5% are families, while the remaining 56.5% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,732
7.9% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,675
Family households
2,057
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,675 56.5% 20.0%
Family households 2,057 43.5% -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 Sheffield

The housing landscape of Sheffield

Sheffield's housing consists of 5,453 units, with 75.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Then there are the multifamily buildings in the area, and for those seeking flexibility, non-traditional options like mobile homes account for 2% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,453
7.2% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,103 75.2%
2 units 476 8.7%
3 or 4 units 118 2.2%
5 to 9 units 162 3%
10 to 19 units 86 1.6%
20 to 49 units 174 3.2%
50 or more units 227 4.2%
Mobile home 107 2%
Homes built since 2020
109
98.2% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sheffield

In Sheffield, the median construction year is 1962. About 14.9% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 12.5% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 4.6% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% between 2010 and 2019, and 2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 814 14.9% 13.7%
Built between 1940 and 1949 683 12.5% 34.2%
Built between 1950 and 1959 948 17.4% 8.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,251 22.9% 6.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 735 13.5% -6.6%
Built between 1980 and 1989 327 6% -13.3%
Built between 1990 and 1999 90 1.6% 15.4%
Built between 2000 and 2009 251 4.6% -3.1%
Built between 2010 and 2019 245 4.5% -5.4%
Built in 2020 or later 109 2% 98.2%
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.

Sheffield occupancy rates

Out of the 4,732 occupied housing units in Sheffield, 60.2% are owner-occupied, while 39.8% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 13.2% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,732
7.9% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,881
Owner occupied
2,851
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,881 39.8% 3.1%
Owner occupied 2,851 60.2% 11.3%
Unoccupied housing units
13.2%
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.

Sheffield housing costs

Housing costs in Sheffield come to a median of $775 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $829.

Median housing costs per month
$775/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 Sheffield
$829/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 Sheffield

Sheffield education at a glance

About 40.4% of the population in Sheffield went to high school, while 27% pursued college studies. Another 7.8% earned an associate degree and 11% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5.7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 631 8.1% 35.4%
High school diploma 3,147 40.4% -4.1%
College diploma 2,097 27% 10.5%
Associate degree 606 7.8% -14.0%
Bachelor's degree 856 11% 15.2%
Graduate degree 445 5.7% 21.6%
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 Sheffield

How much people earn in Sheffield

The average annual household income in Sheffield was $53,151 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a -1.5% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $39,733, reflecting a -5.6% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sheffield
$53,151/year
-1.5% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sheffield
$39,733/year
-5.6% year-over-year change

Sheffield income by age

In Sheffield, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $38,542. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $46,786 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $2,499, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $39,565 in earnings. Overall, 73.1% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $2,499 0.0%
25 - 44 $38,542 -8.1%
45 - 64 $46,786 -11.5%
Over 65 $39,565 -4.9%
Above poverty level
6,755
Below poverty level
2,483
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 6,755 73.1% -0.9%
Below poverty level 2,483 26.9% 4.4%

Average renter income in Sheffield

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sheffield, their median household income was $17,818 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 55.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$17,818
Rent-to-income ratio
55.8%
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 Sheffield

Workforce and job types in Sheffield

The job market in Sheffield is powered by 3,883 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 72.7% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 27.3% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.7% run their own businesses, 67.2% are employed by private companies, and 16% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,883
-1.5% year-over-year change
White collar
2,823
Blue collar
1,060
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,823 72.7% 0.4%
Blue collar 1,060 27.3% -6.2%
Employer type
Self employees
6.7%
Private companies
67.2%
Governmental workers
16%
Not for profit companies
10.2%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 259 6.7% 8.8%
Private companies 2,608 67.2% -2.9%
Governmental workers 622 16% 12.1%
Not for profit companies 394 10.2% -14.7%
Unemployment rate
5.2%
4.9% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sheffield stands at 5.2%, 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 Sheffield

How people get around in Sheffield

Commuting methods vary: 91.6% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 0.7% 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 3,495 91.6% -3.4%
Motorcycle 9 0.2% -10.0%
Walk 28 0.7% 16.7%
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 Sheffield by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35660 9,367 4,774 $40,065 $54,648

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FAQs about Sheffield demographics 

What is the total population of Sheffield?

Sheffield has a total population of 9,340 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 +0.1% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sheffield?

The gender ratio in Sheffield is as follows:
  • 50% males (4,667 residents)
  • 50% females (4,673 residents)

What is the median age in Sheffield?

The median age in Sheffield is 45.8.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sheffield?

The age distribution in Sheffield is as follows:
  • Under 15: 14.9% (1,392 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 12.4% (1,161 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.7% (2,028 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 25.3% (2,367 residents)
  • Over 65: 25.6% (2,392 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sheffield?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sheffield is as follows:
  • White: 67.8% (6,330 residents)
  • Black or African American: 23.7% (2,215 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.2% (14 residents)
  • Asian: 0.2% (14 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.8% (539 residents)
  • Other: 2.4% (228 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.9% of the population in Sheffield.

How many housing units are there in Sheffield?

There are 5,453 housing units in Sheffield, reflecting a +7.2% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sheffield has a total of 4,732 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sheffield?

Sheffield has a median household income of $39,733, representing a -5.6% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 94.8% in Sheffield, with a workforce of 3,883 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 72.7% (2,823 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 27.3% (1,060 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.7% (259 residents)
  • Private companies: 67.2% (2,608 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 16% (622 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.2% (394 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