Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Geneva County, Alabama, had a population of approximately 26,659. The median age is 41.5 years, with 48.6% male and 51.4% female residents. Racially, the population is 82.2% White, 12.3% Black or African American, 0.6% Native American, 0.3% Asian, and 3.3% identifying as two or more races. Hispanic or Latino residents make up 2.9% of the county’s population.

Elections

Geneva County, AL, had 16,476 registered voters for the 2022 general election. The county holds primary, general, and special elections, managed by the Probate Judge’s office. In 2020, 85.4% voted Republican, 13.8% Democrat, with 10 polling locations such as Geneva Community Center. Issues often concern agriculture and school funding. The Republican and Democratic parties are active, with GOP generally dominant. Voter turnout reached 62% in recent general elections. Registration requires residency and a valid ID, with absentee voting available. Election administration reports minimal voting issues, emphasizing transparency and voter accessibility.

Education, Employment and Housing

Geneva County, AL, has 12 public schools, including Geneva County High School and Geneva High School. Approximately 79% of adults hold a high school diploma, while about 14% possess a bachelor's degree or higher. School safety is prioritized with security measures and resource officers, though incidents are slightly above state average. Average reading and math proficiency scores hover around 40-45%. Educational programs include career technical education and dual enrollment options. Adult education is supported by GED and workforce training programs in partnership with regional community colleges.

As of 2022, Geneva County, AL, had an employment rate of about 54.6%. Leading industries include manufacturing (18%), health care and social assistance (15%), and retail trade (13%). The most common occupation types are production (14%), office and administrative support (12%), and sales (11%). Around 85% of employed residents commute by car, with an average travel time of 29 minutes. While most work within the county, approximately 39% commute to nearby counties, primarily Houston and Coffee counties.

Geneva County, AL, has a homeownership rate of about 74%, with median home values near $115,000 and median gross rents around $700 per month. The housing market has seen modest value increases of 3-5% annually. Housing types include single-family homes, mobile homes, and some duplexes, with popular neighborhoods in Geneva, Hartford, and Slocomb. Property tax rates are low, averaging about 0.3% of assessed home value, making the county affordable for many residents. Rental options are limited compared to ownership, reflecting the county’s rural character and predominantly owner-occupied housing stock.

County Crime & Safety

Geneva County, AL, reports a crime rate lower than the national average. According to FBI data, the county's overall crime rate was approximately 1,500 incidents per 100,000 residents in 2022, with violent crimes at 280 per 100,000 and property crimes at 1,220 per 100,000. Local law enforcement encourages prompt reporting, with community safety initiatives in place. Recent years have seen slight declines in crime rates, reflecting effective policing and regional cooperation. Residents generally describe Geneva County as safe, with most incidents involving minor property-related offenses.