Opelika City Demographics

Opelika, in Lee County, AL, has a 2023 estimated population of about 31,200. The median age is approximately 38 years. Females make up 53%, while males are 47%. Racially, the city is 56% White, 36% Black or African American, 3% Hispanic or Latino, 2% Asian, and 3% two or more races or other. Opelika continues to grow steadily, reflecting both racial and age diversity.

Opelika City Healthcare

Opelika, Lee County, AL, is served primarily by East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC), a 350+ bed regional hospital, along with several outpatient clinics and urgent care centers. The uninsured rate in Lee County is approximately 12%, with Medicaid covering about 18% of residents. Patient demographics are around 50% White, 43% Black, and 4% Hispanic. Common health issues include diabetes (11.5% prevalence), hypertension, and obesity (37% adult obesity rate). There are roughly 210 primary care providers per 100,000 residents, slightly above the Alabama average, supporting moderate healthcare accessibility for the community.

Opelika City Housing

Opelika, in Lee County, AL, has a homeownership rate of approximately 56%, with median home values around $210,000 (2024). The rental rate is about 44%, and average rents near $1,150/month. Property values in Opelika have risen over 8% in the past year, reflecting steady market growth. Housing types include single-family homes, apartments, and townhouses. Popular neighborhoods include Historic Downtown, Wyndham Gate, and Northbrook. Property taxes average 0.34% of assessed home value, below the national average, making Opelika an attractive option for both buyers and renters.

Education in Opelika City

Opelika, Lee County, AL, has 16 public schools, including Opelika High School, and is served by Opelika City Schools. The district boasts a graduation rate of 89%. About 28% of residents hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools receive an average GreatSchools rating of 6/10, reflecting strong academics and school safety initiatives, such as security officers on campus. Adult education programs are available through Southern Union State Community College. Educational offerings feature STEM, arts, and AP courses for advanced students.

Transportation in Opelika City

Opelika, Lee County, AL, primarily relies on personal vehicles, with over 92% of households owning at least one car and less than 1% using public transit (ACS 2022). The average commute time is approximately 21 minutes. The city lacks a fixed-route public transit system, though limited demand-response services are available. Key employment hubs include East Alabama Medical Center and the adjacent Auburn–Opelika area industries. Major highways, such as I-85 and US-280, support efficient regional transportation. Carpooling is utilized by about 8% of commuters, while walking and biking remain minimal.

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