Bessemer Public RecordsAlabama

Bessemer, a city in Jefferson County, AL, features 8 public schools, including Bessemer City High School, with a graduation rate of approximately 85%. Only around 11% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Safety initiatives are present, but school safety scores average 5/10. Educational programs include advanced placement and vocational courses. Adult education is offered through Lawson State Community College nearby. The district’s overall test scores are below state average, scoring 35% in reading and 28% in math proficiency, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve academic performance and college readiness.

Bessemer, in Jefferson County, AL, relies heavily on personal vehicles: about 87% of commuters drive alone, with only 0.7% using public transit (U.S. Census, 2022 ACS). The average commute time is approximately 27 minutes, slightly below the national average. Most households (over 91%) own at least one vehicle. Transportation infrastructure is centered around major roads, such as Interstate 20/59 and U.S. Highway 11. Public transit access is limited to Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (MAX) routes. Major employment hubs include the Bessemer Industrial Park, UAB West, Amazon, and manufacturing firms.

Bessemer, in Jefferson County, AL, has a homeownership rate of about 60%, with median home values around $110,000 in 2024. Typical monthly rents average $1,000 for a 3-bedroom. The housing market shows modest appreciation, with 3-4% annual growth. Most homes are single-family structures, with some townhouses and apartments concentrated near downtown and neighborhoods like Greenwood and Jonesboro. Property taxes are relatively low, averaging $700–$1,200 annually on a median-priced home. The city offers affordable options but remains accessible for both buyers and renters seeking proximity to Birmingham.

As of the 2020 Census, Bessemer city in Jefferson County, AL, had a population of 26,019. The racial/ethnic makeup was approximately 72.2% Black or African American, 21.5% White, 4.8% Hispanic/Latino, and 1.5% other races. The median age was about 41 years. Females constituted 53.2% of the population, while males accounted for 46.8%.

Bessemer, located in Jefferson County, AL, is served by major facilities like UAB Medical West Hospital and multiple clinics. As of 2023, approximately 16% of residents under 65 lack health insurance. The population is about 72% Black, 24% White, and 3% Hispanic. Common health issues include diabetes, hypertension, and obesity, with Jefferson County adult obesity rates at 38%. Healthcare access is challenged by poverty—Bessemer’s rate is about 23%. Primary care physicians are available at a ratio of roughly 1:1,800 residents, slightly below national averages. Medicaid and Medicare are key coverage sources.