Demographics

As of 2022, Henry County, AL has a population of 17,033. The median age is approximately 43.9 years. About 49% of residents are male and 51% female. Racially, the county is 65.3% White, 31.3% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% Native American, and 1.1% identifying as two or more races; 1.3% are Hispanic or Latino. The population is fairly evenly distributed among age groups, with a slightly older median age reflecting a significant senior presence.

Elections

Henry County, AL, had about 11,500 registered voters in 2022. Elections include primaries, generals, and local referenda, with recent turnout at roughly 36% for the 2022 midterms. Major parties are Republican and Democrat; the county leans Republican (over 80% in 2020 presidential vote). The Probate Judge’s office administers elections, managing 13 precincts such as Headland and Abbeville Civic Centers. Key issues include economic development and education. Voters register through the Board of Registrars. Election results and polling locations are posted on the county’s website and the Alabama Secretary of State’s portal.

Education, Employment and Housing

Henry County, AL has 9 public schools, including 1 high school, serving around 2,400 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 88%, but only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school test scores in the county are below the Alabama state average. School safety is a county focus, with security protocols in place. Educational programs include career and technical education, but limited AP options. Adult education opportunities are available through local initiatives and Wallace Community College partnerships, supporting GED and workforce training.

As of 2022, Henry County, AL, had an employment rate of approximately 53.4%. Major employment sectors include education, health care (21.4%), manufacturing (18.2%), and retail trade (10.7%). The leading occupational groups are production (15.6%), office and administrative support (14.8%), and sales (10.1%). About 82% of workers commute by car, with an average commute time of 27.8 minutes; 30% work outside Henry County, mainly in Dothan and neighboring counties, reflecting the rural-local workforce mix.

Henry County, AL, has a homeownership rate of about 75%, with median home values around $125,000, reflecting modest annual growth of 2–3%. The median gross rent is approximately $725 per month. Housing options include single-family homes, mobile homes, and a few apartment complexes, primarily in neighborhoods like Abbeville and Headland. Property taxes remain low—the average annual property tax is under $500. The area offers affordable suburban and rural living, with stable property values and manageable housing costs.

County Crime & Safety

Henry County, AL, has a crime rate lower than the national average. According to FBI data, the county’s total crime rate is about 1,060 incidents per 100,000 people, with violent crime at approximately 345 and property crime at 715 per 100,000. Most reported offenses are property-related, such as burglary and theft. The sheriff’s office emphasizes community policing and encourages residents to report suspicious activity, which helps maintain safety. Overall, Henry County is considered a relatively safe community with effective local law enforcement initiatives.