De Kalb County Public RecordsAlabama

DeKalb County, Alabama, has an estimated population of 72,000 (2023). The median age is around 40 years. The gender split is nearly even, with about 51% female and 49% male. Racially, the population is approximately 82% White, 2% Black or African American, and 2% Native American; 14% identify as Hispanic or Latino of any race. Asian and other races make up the remainder.

DeKalb County, Alabama, with over 33,000 registered voters as of 2024, participates in federal, state, and local elections, including primaries and runoffs. In the 2020 general election, turnout reached approximately 60%. Key polling locations include Fort Payne City Hall and DeKalb County Activities Center. The county predominantly supports Republican candidates—Donald Trump won 85% of the vote in 2020. Election administration is overseen by the DeKalb County Probate Judge's office. Ongoing voter issues include access for rural residents and absentee ballot processing. Major parties represented are Republican and Democratic, with Republicans holding most local offices.

DeKalb County, AL, has 14 public schools, including 5 high schools. Approximately 79% of adults hold a high school diploma, while about 12% possess a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools’ average proficiency scores are 42% in reading and 38% in math. The district offers career-tech and dual enrollment programs to enhance college readiness. School safety programs are enforced, and DeKalb has a lower-than-average student-to-officer ratio. Adult education programs are available through local community centers, supporting GED and workforce development initiatives.

As of 2022, DeKalb County, AL had an employment rate of approximately 53.7%. The leading industries are manufacturing (24%), retail trade (14%), and health care & social assistance (13%). The most common occupation types are production (17%), office & administrative support (12%), and sales (11%). About 81% of workers commute alone by car, with an average travel time of 25 minutes. Major employment hubs include Fort Payne and surrounding areas, with some residents commuting to neighboring counties for work. Unemployment hovers around 2.6%, reflecting the county's stable job market.

DeKalb County, AL, has a homeownership rate of around 74%, higher than the national average, with median home values near $150,000 in 2024. Median gross rent is approximately $700 per month. The county features a mix of single-family homes, mobile homes, and some apartments, with neighborhoods like Fort Payne and Rainsville offering diverse options. Property values have risen modestly, about 5% year-over-year. Property tax rates are among Alabama’s lowest, averaging $350–$400 annually on a $150,000 home, making the county attractive for affordable living.

DeKalb County, AL experiences higher crime rates compared to state averages, particularly in property crime. In 2023, the county reported a crime rate of approximately 28.5 incidents per 1,000 residents. Property crimes, including burglary and theft, made up about 80% of reported offenses, with violent crimes (such as assault and robbery) accounting for the remaining 20%. Crime is most frequently reported in Fort Payne and surrounding towns. Local law enforcement has increased patrols and community outreach to improve safety, though residents are advised to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity.