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

Total population
11,878
-1.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$33,310/yr
-12.3% year-over-year change
Housing units
6,356
0.4% year-over-year change

Sumter County population

How many people live in Sumter County

Sumter County is home to 11,878 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 44.3% of Sumter County locals are male, and 55.7% are female.

Total population
11,878
-1.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
44.3%
5,266
Female
55.7%
6,612
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,266 44.3% -1.7%
Female 6,612 55.7% -0.8%
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 Sumter County is 36, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.1% are children under 15, then 25% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 18.5% of the population, while another 20.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
35.7
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.1%
15 to 24
25%
25 to 44
18.5%
45 to 64
20.5%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 1,916 16.1% -3.2%
15 to 24 2,971 25% 1.8%
25 to 44 2,202 18.5% -3.8%
45 to 64 2,435 20.5% -3.4%
Over 65 2,354 19.8% 1.8%
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 Sumter County, 98.8% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.7% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.6% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 26.1% of locals are Caucasian, 68.2% are African American and 0.3% have Asian roots. There’s also a share of 5.3% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.8%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.7%
Non-citizens
0.6%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 11,731 98.8% -1.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 82 0.7% 5.1%
Non-citizens 65 0.6% 20.4%
Racial breakdown
White
26.1%
Black or African American
68.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.1%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
0.1%
Value Percent
White 3,097 26.1%
Black or African American 8,097 68.2%
American Indian and Alaska Native 13 0.1%
Asian 32 0.3%
Two or more races 631 5.3%
Other 8 0.1%

Households in Sumter County

A peek inside Sumter County households

Sumter County has 4,823 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 60.1% are families, while the remaining 39.9% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
4,823
1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,924
Family households
2,899
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,924 39.9% 14.9%
Family households 2,899 60.1% -6.2%
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 Sumter County

The housing landscape of Sumter County

Sumter County's housing consists of 6,356 units, with 58.8% 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 30.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
6,356
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 3,734 58.8%
1 unit, attached 34 0.5%
2 units 258 4.1%
3 or 4 units 136 2.1%
5 to 9 units 90 1.4%
10 to 19 units 35 0.6%
20 to 49 units 109 1.7%
Mobile home 1,959 30.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 1 0%
Homes built since 2020
82
182.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sumter County

In Sumter County, the median construction year is 1979. About 5.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.4% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 10.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 4.5% 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 348 5.5% 83.2%
Built between 1940 and 1949 219 3.4% 47.0%
Built between 1950 and 1959 462 7.3% -15.1%
Built between 1960 and 1969 643 10.1% 0.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 1,721 27.1% 6.4%
Built between 1980 and 1989 724 11.4% -6.6%
Built between 1990 and 1999 1,219 19.2% 0.2%
Built between 2000 and 2009 650 10.2% -18.4%
Built between 2010 and 2019 288 4.5% -21.9%
Built in 2020 or later 82 1.3% 182.8%
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.

Sumter County occupancy rates

Out of the 4,823 occupied housing units in Sumter County, 66.8% are owner-occupied, while 33.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 24.1% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
4,823
1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
1,599
Owner occupied
3,224
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 1,599 33.2% 10.4%
Owner occupied 3,224 66.8% -2.8%
Unoccupied housing units
24.1%
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.

Sumter County housing costs

Housing costs in Sumter County come to a median of $595 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $775.

Median housing costs per month
$595/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 Sumter County
$775/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 Sumter County

Sumter County education at a glance

About 41% of the population in Sumter County went to high school, while 35.6% pursued college studies. Another 7.2% earned an associate degree and 7.4% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 182 1.9% 3.4%
High school diploma 3,930 41% 6.5%
College diploma 3,416 35.6% -10.0%
Associate degree 685 7.2% 6.9%
Bachelor's degree 706 7.4% -12.2%
Graduate degree 666 7% 10.6%
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 Sumter County

How much people earn in Sumter County

The average annual household income in Sumter County was $52,781 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +4.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $33,310, reflecting a -12.3% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sumter County
$52,781/year
4.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sumter County
$33,310/year
-12.3% year-over-year change

Sumter County income by age

In Sumter County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $30,053. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $35,423 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $23,434, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $37,247 in earnings. Overall, 73.8% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $23,434 20.4%
25 - 44 $30,053 -27.1%
45 - 64 $35,423 0.5%
Over 65 $37,247 -8.1%
Above poverty level
7,058
Below poverty level
2,508
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 7,058 73.8% -1.0%
Below poverty level 2,508 26.2% -9.0%

Employment in Sumter County

Workforce and job types in Sumter County

The job market in Sumter County is powered by 3,889 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.8% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.2% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 6.4% run their own businesses, 50.4% are employed by private companies, and 32.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
3,889
-8.6% year-over-year change
White collar
2,872
Blue collar
1,017
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 2,872 73.8% -6.3%
Blue collar 1,017 26.2% -14.5%
Employer type
Self employees
6.4%
Private companies
50.4%
Governmental workers
32.6%
Not for profit companies
10.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 251 6.4% -32.2%
Private companies 1,959 50.4% -23.8%
Governmental workers 1,267 32.6% 33.2%
Not for profit companies 412 10.6% 13.8%
Unemployment rate
12.1%
34.0% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sumter County stands at 12.1%, 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 Sumter County

How people get around in Sumter County

Commuting methods vary: 85.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 4.1% 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 3,240 85.2% -10.2%
Bus or trolleybus 6 0.2% -73.9%
Motorcycle 1 0% -50.0%
Walk 156 4.1% 23.8%
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 Sumter County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
36901 112 97 $52,585 $47,441
36907 1,618 669 $45,444 $61,152
36922 296 164 $0 $74,236
36925 2,383 1,270 $29,342 $49,265
35442 5,230 1,451 $44,503 $71,174
35459 580 395 $36,850 $47,166
35460 442 231 $31,250 $37,479
35464 439 185 $15,625 $29,261
35470 5,829 1,767 $29,475 $57,916
35477 222 82 $0 $50,479

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FAQs about Sumter County demographics 

What is the total population of Sumter County?

Sumter County has a total population of 11,878 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 -1.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sumter County?

The gender ratio in Sumter County is as follows:
  • 44.3% males (5,266 residents)
  • 55.7% females (6,612 residents)

What is the median age in Sumter County?

The median age in Sumter County is 35.7.

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

The age distribution in Sumter County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.1% (1,916 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 25% (2,971 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 18.5% (2,202 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 20.5% (2,435 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (2,354 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sumter County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sumter County is as follows:
  • White: 26.1% (3,097 residents)
  • Black or African American: 68.2% (8,097 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.1% (13 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (32 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (631 residents)
  • Other: 0.1% (8 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.8% of the population in Sumter County.

How many housing units are there in Sumter County?

There are 6,356 housing units in Sumter County, reflecting a +0.4% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sumter County has a total of 4,823 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sumter County?

Sumter County has a median household income of $33,310, representing a -12.3% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 87.9% in Sumter County, with a workforce of 3,889 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.8% (2,872 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.2% (1,017 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 6.4% (251 residents)
  • Private companies: 50.4% (1,959 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 32.6% (1,267 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 10.6% (412 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