Clay County Public RecordsAlabama

As of the 2020 Census, Clay County, AL had a population of 14,236. The median age was about 45 years, with 21.3% under 18 and 20.5% aged 65 or older. The gender split was nearly even, with 50.5% female and 49.5% male. Racially, the county was 77.2% White, 18.4% Black or African American, 2.2% Hispanic or Latino, 0.2% Asian, and 2% identifying as two or more races or other groups.

Clay County, AL, had 10,087 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in primary, general, and special elections, with polling locations in Ashland, Lineville, and Millerville. In the 2020 presidential election, 83% voted Republican, 16% Democrat. Key issues include education funding and infrastructure. Elections are overseen by the Clay County Probate Judge, with two main parties: Republican and Democratic. Voter turnout in 2022 was 44%. Registration is available at the Board of Registrars’ office or online.

Clay County, AL, has two public high schools—Central High School of Clay County and Clay County High—with a combined graduation rate near 90%. Adult residents with a high school diploma or higher comprise about 82%, while 12% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. School safety scores are above the state average, and robust vocational and dual enrollment programs enhance student preparedness. The county also supports adult education through GED and career training offerings. Educational quality is reflected in an average public school ranking of 6/10, according to Niche.

As of 2022, Clay County, AL had an employment rate of approximately 50.3%. Major industries include Manufacturing (19.7%), Health Care & Social Assistance (16.6%), and Retail Trade (11.5%). Occupationally, 25% work in Production, Transportation, and Material Moving, while 22% are in Management, Business, Science, and the Arts. The median commute time is about 35 minutes, with over 75% of workers commuting outside the county for employment, primarily to neighboring Talladega and Calhoun counties.

Clay County, AL has a homeownership rate of about 79%, with median home values around $110,000 (2022). Median gross rent is approximately $605 per month. The property market trends show slight appreciation, with a 3-4% increase year-over-year. Most homes are single-family residences, with some mobile homes and small apartment complexes. Notable neighborhoods include Ashland and Lineville, featuring quiet, rural living. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.33% of a home's value—about $363 annually on a $110,000 home—making the county attractive for budget-conscious buyers.

Clay County, AL, maintains a relatively low crime rate compared to state averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 300 total crimes, including 25 violent crimes and 275 property crimes, translating to a crime rate of about 17.6 per 1,000 residents. Local law enforcement emphasizes community policing, and annual reporting through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency ensures transparency. Recent years have seen a slight decline in property crime rates, contributing to a generally safe environment for residents.