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

Total population
23,682
0.2% year-over-year change
Median household income
$57,256/yr
19.2% year-over-year change
Housing units
13,160
0.4% year-over-year change

Winston County population

How many people live in Winston County

Winston County is home to 23,682 residents, according to the most recent Census data. Gender-wise, 50% of Winston County locals are male, and 50% are female.

Total population
23,682
0.2% year-over-year change
Gender ratio
Male
50%
11,851
Female
50%
11,831
Value Percent YoY change
Male 11,851 50% 0.4%
Female 11,831 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 Winston County is 45, with the population distributed as follows: about 16.8% are children under 15, then 11.2% are in the 15 to 24 age group. Adults between 25 and 44 make up 21.5% of the population, while another 28.5% fall into the 45 to 64 bracket. Finally, around 22% are 65 or older.

Median age
45.4
Age breakdown
Under 15
16.8%
15 to 24
11.2%
25 to 44
21.5%
45 to 64
28.5%
Over 65
22%
Value Percent YoY change
Under 15 3,973 16.8% 1.5%
15 to 24 2,650 11.2% -0.6%
25 to 44 5,100 21.5% -0.3%
45 to 64 6,749 28.5% -0.3%
Over 65 5,210 22% 0.8%
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 Winston County, 97.3% of the population are US-born citizens, while 1.2% have gained naturalized citizenship. At the same time, 1.5% of residents are non-citizens. As for race, 91.1% of locals are Caucasian, 1% 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
97.3%
Non-U.S.-born citizens
1.2%
Non-citizens
1.5%
Value Percent YoY change
U.S.-born citizens 23,036 97.3% 0.4%
Non-U.S.-born citizens 293 1.2% -10.1%
Non-citizens 353 1.5% -3.3%
Racial breakdown
White
91.1%
Black or African American
1%
American Indian and Alaska Native
0.3%
Asian
0.3%
Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander
0%
Two or more races
5.3%
Other
2%
Value Percent
White 21,573 91.1%
Black or African American 237 1%
American Indian and Alaska Native 78 0.3%
Asian 73 0.3%
Two or more races 1,246 5.3%
Other 475 2%

Households in Winston County

A peek inside Winston County households

Winston County has 9,420 households, with an average of 2 members in each. Of these, 70.9% are families, while the remaining 29.1% are made up of individuals living alone or with non-relatives, such as roommates.

Households stats

Total households
9,420
1.0% year-over-year change
Average people per household
2
Non-family households
2,742
Family households
6,678
Value Percent YoY change
Non-family households 2,742 29.1% -3.3%
Family households 6,678 70.9% 2.9%
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 Winston County

The housing landscape of Winston County

Winston County's housing consists of 13,160 units, with 62.8% being detached single-family homes ideal for those wanting space. Attached options, including duplexes and townhouses, make up 0.6% 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 29.8% of the housing landscape.

Housing units
13,160
0.4% year-over-year change
Housing types
Value Percent
1 unit, detached 8,265 62.8%
1 unit, attached 75 0.6%
2 units 250 1.9%
3 or 4 units 273 2.1%
5 to 9 units 215 1.6%
10 to 19 units 72 0.6%
20 to 49 units 25 0.2%
Mobile home 3,919 29.8%
Boat, RV, van, etc. 66 0.5%
Homes built since 2020
154
220.8% year-over-year change

The age of buildings in Winston County

In Winston County, the median construction year is 1988. About 2.5% of homes were built before the 1940s, with another 3.2% going up by 1949. Most development happened in the second half of the 20th century. Then, 16.2% of homes were added from 2000 to 2009, 8.9% between 2010 and 2019, and 1.2% are part of the newest wave of development.

Construction year breakdown by decade
Value Percent YoY change
Built in 1939 or earlier 333 2.5% -21.6%
Built between 1940 and 1949 427 3.2% 0.7%
Built between 1950 and 1959 728 5.5% 4.8%
Built between 1960 and 1969 1,598 12.1% 2.0%
Built between 1970 and 1979 2,120 16.1% -5.3%
Built between 1980 and 1989 1,717 13% -4.8%
Built between 1990 and 1999 2,773 21.1% 1.8%
Built between 2000 and 2009 2,137 16.2% -0.6%
Built between 2010 and 2019 1,173 8.9% 13.2%
Built in 2020 or later 154 1.2% 220.8%
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.

Winston County occupancy rates

Out of the 9,420 occupied housing units in Winston County, 75.8% are owner-occupied, while 24.2% are lived in by tenants. Meanwhile, 28.4% of all homes on the local market sit vacant.

Occupied housing units
9,420
1.0% year-over-year change
Occupancy breakdown
Renter occupied
2,280
Owner occupied
7,140
Value Percent YoY
change
Renter occupied 2,280 24.2% 4.6%
Owner occupied 7,140 75.8% -0.1%
Unoccupied housing units
28.4%
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.

Winston County housing costs

Housing costs in Winston County come to a median of $687 per month, while tenants specifically pay a median gross rent of $803.

Median housing costs per month
$687/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 Winston County
$803/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 Winston County

Winston County education at a glance

About 53.6% of the population in Winston County went to high school, while 17.9% pursued college studies. Another 8.2% earned an associate degree and 8.1% hold a bachelor’s. Meanwhile, 5% went even further, earning a master’s or doctorate.

Education level
Value Percent YoY change
No high school 1,335 7.1% 6.0%
High school diploma 10,082 53.6% -2.3%
College diploma 3,362 17.9% -4.5%
Associate degree 1,545 8.2% 11.6%
Bachelor's degree 1,524 8.1% 4.0%
Graduate degree 950 5% 9.2%
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 Winston County

How much people earn in Winston County

The average annual household income in Winston County was $72,668 in 2024, the most recent annual data available, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. This marked a +8.6% change from the previous year. At the same time, the median income stood at $57,256, reflecting a +19.2% shift over the same period.

Average household income in Winston County
$72,668/year
8.6% year-over-year change
Median household income in Winston County
$57,256/year
19.2% year-over-year change

Winston County income by age

In Winston County, households led by residents aged 25 to 44 — usually in the early to mid stages of their careers — have a median income of $62,414. Those with someone between 45 and 64 in charge, often well established professionally, earn $70,448 overall. Younger households, where the main provider is under 25 and just starting out, report a median income of $45,109, while those led by someone over 65, many of whom may be retired, have about $40,137 in earnings. Overall, 81.4% of the locals in this community live above the poverty line.

Income breakdown by age
Value YoY change
Under 25 $45,109 4.1%
25 - 44 $62,414 23.6%
45 - 64 $70,448 8.7%
Over 65 $40,137 6.5%
Above poverty level
18,728
Below poverty level
4,287
Value Percent YoY
change
Above poverty level 18,728 81.4% 1.1%
Below poverty level 4,287 18.6% -3.9%

Employment in Winston County

Workforce and job types in Winston County

The job market in Winston County is powered by 9,908 working residents, spread across a range of industries and roles. 56.2% of the working population are employed in professional or administrative positions, while 43.8% are in hands-on or service-based jobs. Also, 11.2% run their own businesses, 72.2% are employed by private companies, and 12.6% work in the public sector.

Workforce demographics

Working population
9,908
2.4% year-over-year change
White collar
5,565
Blue collar
4,343
Value Percent YoY change
White collar 5,565 56.2% 3.2%
Blue collar 4,343 43.8% 1.3%
Employer type
Self employees
11.2%
Private companies
72.2%
Governmental workers
12.6%
Not for profit companies
4%
Value Percent YoY change
Self employees 1,105 11.2% -15.3%
Private companies 7,153 72.2% 4.9%
Governmental workers 1,249 12.6% 0.6%
Not for profit companies 401 4% 28.1%
Unemployment rate
3.6%
-12.6% year-over-year change

Available workforce

The unemployment rate in Winston County stands at 3.6%, 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 Winston County

How people get around in Winston County

In Winston County, the average commute time is 28 minutes. Commuting methods vary: 91.2% of residents travel by personal vehicle and 1% prefer to walk, while the remaining share relies on public transit or on two wheelers to get from A to B.

Commute time
28 min
2.5% year-over-year change
Means of transportation
Value Percent YoY change
Car 8,978 91.2% 1.9%
Motorcycle 9 0.1% 28.6%
Walk 96 1% -8.6%
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 Winston County by zipcode?

Zipcode Population Number of households Median income Average income
35098 1,390 585 $80,517 $77,551
35540 2,265 956 $65,192 $74,828
35541 3,895 1,642 $57,143 $79,701
35553 4,920 1,685 $63,207 $83,118
35565 10,642 4,362 $45,598 $67,678
35572 1,203 584 $70,911 $65,043
35575 946 416 $45,938 $58,549
35577 17 8 $0 $0
35578 5,582 2,146 $55,754 $74,432

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FAQs about Winston County demographics 

What is the total population of Winston County?

Winston County has a total population of 23,682 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 +0.2% compared to a year ago.

What is the gender ratio in Winston County?

The gender ratio in Winston County is as follows:
  • 50% males (11,851 residents)
  • 50% females (11,831 residents)

What is the median age in Winston County?

The median age in Winston County is 45.4.

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

The age distribution in Winston County is as follows:
  • Under 15: 16.8% (3,973 residents)
  • Ages 15-24: 11.2% (2,650 residents)
  • Ages 25-44: 21.5% (5,100 residents)
  • Ages 45-64: 28.5% (6,749 residents)
  • Over 65: 22% (5,210 residents)

What is the racial and ethnic makeup of Winston County?

The racial and ethnic makeup of Winston County is as follows:
  • White: 91.1% (21,573 residents)
  • Black or African American: 1% (237 residents)
  • American Indian and Alaska Native: 0.3% (78 residents)
  • Asian: 0.3% (73 residents)
  • Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander: 0% (0 residents)
  • Two or More Races: 5.3% (1,246 residents)
  • Other: 2% (475 residents)

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

U.S.-born citizens represent 97.3% of the population in Winston County.

How many housing units are there in Winston County?

There are 13,160 housing units in Winston 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 Winston County and what is the average household size?

Winston County has a total of 9,420 households, with an average of 2 people in each.

What is the median household income in Winston County?

Winston County has a median household income of $57,256, representing a +19.2% shift from the previous year, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

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

The employment rate is 96.4% in Winston County, with a workforce of 9,908 residents. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the local job market:

Job types:
  • White-collar workers: 56.2% (5,565 residents)
  • Blue-collar workers: 43.8% (4,343 residents)

Places of employment:
  • Self-employed: 11.2% (1,105 residents)
  • Private companies: 72.2% (7,153 residents)
  • Governmental workers: 12.6% (1,249 residents)
  • Not-for-profit companies: 4% (401 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