Sylacauga, AL demographics:
population, income, and more

Total population
12,309
-0.6% year-over-year change
Median household income
$50,017/yr
7.8% year-over-year change
Housing units
5,785
-1.8% year-over-year change

Sylacauga population

How many people live in Sylacauga

Sylacauga is home to 12,309 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 43.3% of Sylacauga locals are male, and 56.7% are female.

Total population
12,309
-0.6% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
43.3%
5,330
Female
56.7%
6,979
Value Percent YoY change
Male 5,330 43.3% 0.6%
Female 6,979 56.7% -1.5%
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 Sylacauga is 37, with the population distributed as follows: about 19.8% are children under 15, then 8.8% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 27.3% of the population, while another 24.3% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 19.8% are 65 or older.

Median age
37.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
19.8%
15 to 24
8.8%
25 to 44
27.3%
45 to 64
24.3%
Over 65
19.8%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 2,434 19.8% -1.3%
15 to 24 1,080 8.8% -8.8%
25 to 44 3,364 27.3% -1.0%
45 to 64 2,993 24.3% 0.8%
Over 65 2,438 19.8% 3.0%
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 Sylacauga, 98.6% of the population are US-born citizens, while 0.6% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 0.7% of residents are non-citizens. There’s also a share of 3.1% that includes residents with two or more races.

Citizenship
U.S.-born citizens
98.6%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
0.6%
Non-citizens
0.7%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 12,143 98.6% -0.2%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 76 0.6% -24.0%
Non-citizens 90 0.7% -26.2%
Racial breakdown
White
61.4%
Black or African American
33.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.6%
Asian
0%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
3.1%
Other
1.2%
Value Percent
White 7,561 61.4%
Black or African American 4,142 33.6%
American Indian and Alaska Native 76 0.6%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander 1 0%
Two or more races 383 3.1%
Other 146 1.2%

Households in Sylacauga

A peek inside Sylacauga households

Sylacauga has 5,325 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 65.6% are families, while the remaining 34.4% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
5,325
-1.2% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
1,834
Family households
3,491
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 1,834 34.4% -7.0%
Family households 3,491 65.6% 2.1%
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 Sylacauga

The housing landscape of Sylacauga

Sylacauga's housing consists of 5,785 units, with 69.2% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 2.7% 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 5.6% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
5,785
-1.8% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 4,005 69.2%
1 unit, attached 154 2.7%
2 units 330 5.7%
3 or 4 units 443 7.7%
5 to 9 units 215 3.7%
20 to 49 units 254 4.4%
50 or more units 58 1%
Mobile home 326 5.6%
Homes built since 2020
9
% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Sylacauga

In Sylacauga, the median construction year is 1973. About 9.7% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 6.6% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 8.9% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 2.8% between 2010 and 2019, and 0.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 559 9.7% 8.1%
Built between 1940 and 1949 380 6.6% -7.8%
Built between 1950 and 1959 1,064 18.4% -1.5%
Built between 1960 and 1969 630 10.9% 1.8%
Built between 1970 and 1979 826 14.3% -14.1%
Built between 1980 and 1989 838 14.5% 3.2%
Built between 1990 and 1999 797 13.8% -5.5%
Built between 2000 and 2009 517 8.9% 20.5%
Built between 2010 and 2019 165 2.8% -24.0%
Built in 2020 or later 9 0.2% 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.

Sylacauga occupancy rates

Out of the 5,325 occupied housing units in Sylacauga, 55.1% are owner-occupied, while 44.9% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 8% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
5,325
-1.2% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,390
Owner occupied
2,935
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,390 44.9% -7.7%
Owner occupied 2,935 55.1% 4.7%
Unoccupied housing units
8.0%
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.

Sylacauga housing costs

Housing costs in Sylacauga come to a median of $828 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $773.

Median housing costs per month
$828/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 Sylacauga
$773/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 Sylacauga

Sylacauga education at a glance

About 41.7% of the population in Sylacauga went to high school, while 27.7% pursued college studies. Another 9.2% earned an associate degree and 9.3% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 7.5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 440 4.7% 6.0%
High school diploma 3,921 41.7% -3.7%
College diploma 2,611 27.7% 5.1%
Associate degree 861 9.2% 0.0%
Bachelor's degree 874 9.3% 19.1%
Graduate degree 704 7.5% 0.6%
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 Sylacauga

How much people earn in Sylacauga

The average annual household income in Sylacauga was $59,286 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +5.7% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $50,017, reflecting a +7.8% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Sylacauga
$59,286/year
5.7% year-over-year change
Median household income in Sylacauga
$50,017/year
7.8% year-over-year change

Sylacauga income by age

In Sylacauga, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $44,133. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $65,174 overall. Overall, 79.2% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
25 - 44 $44,133 -3.0%
45 - 64 $65,174 10.4%
Over 65 $44,856 12.3%
Above poverty level
9,485
Below poverty level
2,483
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 9,485 79.2% 4.6%
Below poverty level 2,483 20.8% -16.1%

Average renter income in Sylacauga

To get a better sense of what renters earn on average in Sylacauga, their median household income was $24,567 according to 2022 Census data. In addition, the rent-to-income ratio in the area, at 37.8%, shows what portion of their earnings goes toward housing expenses.

Renter median household income
$24,567
Rent-to-income ratio
37.8%
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 Sylacauga

Workforce and job types in Sylacauga

The job market in Sylacauga is powered by 4,994 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 73.9% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 26.1% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 8.6% run their own businesses, 63.9% are employed by private companies, and 20.8% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
4,994
1.4% year-over-year change
White collar
3,691
Blue collar
1,303
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 3,691 73.9% 8.4%
Blue collar 1,303 26.1% -14.1%
Employer type
Self employees
8.6%
Private companies
63.9%
Governmental workers
20.8%
Not for profit companies
6.6%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 431 8.6% 28.7%
Private companies 3,191 63.9% -2.2%
Governmental workers 1,041 20.8% -3.9%
Not for profit companies 331 6.6% 37.3%
Unemployment rate
6.6%
-15.4% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Sylacauga stands at 6.6%, 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 Sylacauga

How people get around in Sylacauga

Commuting methods vary: 94.8% 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 4,489 94.8% 0.2%
Walk 35 0.7% 9.4%
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 Sylacauga by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35150 17,305 7,431 $45,768 $57,378
35151 7,482 2,957 $68,239 $90,499

Find your place

Explore more communities

FAQs about Sylacauga demographics 

What is the total population of Sylacauga?

Sylacauga has a total population of 12,309 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 -0.6% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Sylacauga?

The gender ratio in Sylacauga is as follows:
  • 43.3% males (5,330 residents)
  • 56.7% females (6,979 residents)

What is the median age in Sylacauga?

The median age in Sylacauga is 37.4.

What is the age distribution of the population in Sylacauga?

The age distribution in Sylacauga is as follows:
  • Under 15: 19.8% (2,434 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 8.8% (1,080 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 27.3% (3,364 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 24.3% (2,993 residents)
  • Over 65: 19.8% (2,438 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Sylacauga?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Sylacauga is as follows:
  • White: 61.4% (7,561 residents)
  • Black or African American: 33.6% (4,142 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.6% (76 residents)
  • Asian: 0% (0 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (1 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 3.1% (383 residents)
  • Other: 1.2% (146 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 98.6% of the population in Sylacauga.

How many housing units are there in Sylacauga?

There are 5,785 housing units in Sylacauga, reflecting a -1.8% change compared to the previous year, according to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

Sylacauga has a total of 5,325 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Sylacauga?

Sylacauga has a median household income of $50,017, representing a +7.8% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 93.4% in Sylacauga, with a workforce of 4,994 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 73.9% (3,691 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 26.1% (1,303 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 8.6% (431 residents)
  • Private companies: 63.9% (3,191 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 20.8% (1,041 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 6.6% (331 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