Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Lamar County, Alabama, had a population of 13,972. The median age was approximately 43 years. The racial makeup was predominantly White (81.1%), followed by Black or African American (16.1%), with smaller percentages of other races. Hispanics or Latinos accounted for 1.2%. Gender distribution was nearly balanced, with males comprising about 49% and females 51% of the population.

Elections

Lamar County, AL, had 9,212 registered voters as of 2022. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primary, runoff, and general contests. The 2020 Presidential election saw 83% voter turnout, with 82% favoring the Republican candidate. There are 13 polling locations managed by the Lamar County Board of Registrars. Key issues include education and rural infrastructure. Administration is overseen by the Probate Judge. The county leans strongly Republican, as reflected in most election outcomes, with the Democratic Party remaining less competitive. Voter registration and polling information are available online and at the courthouse.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lamar County, AL serves about 2,000 K-12 students across 6 public schools, including Lamar County High School. The county’s high school graduation rate is around 87%, but only about 10% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree. Average school test scores are below the state average, with statewide scores at 78/100 and Lamar County around 72/100. School safety measures are emphasized, and adult education programs are available through Bevill State Community College. The district offers some Advanced Placement and career technical programs, aiming to improve student preparedness despite resource limitations.

As of 2022, Lamar County, AL had an employment rate of 52.5% among residents aged 16+, with approximately 5,000 employed individuals. The largest industries include Manufacturing (21%), Health Care & Social Assistance (16%), and Retail Trade (12%). Most common occupations are Production (17%), Office & Administrative Support (14%), and Sales (11%). About 23% of residents commute outside the county for work, with the average commute time being 27 minutes. Top commuting destinations include Tuscaloosa and Fayette counties.

Lamar County, AL, has a homeownership rate around 75%, with a median home value near $93,000 and median rent about $630 monthly. Recent years show modest property value increases of 2–4% annually. Housing types mainly include single-family homes, with some mobile homes and few multi-family units. Key neighborhoods include vernon, Sulligent, and Millport. Property tax rates are low, averaging about $300–$500 annually for typical homes, reflecting Alabama’s favorable tax climate. Rental inventory remains limited, with most residents owning their homes.

County Crime & Safety

Lamar County, AL, has a crime rate lower than the national average, with a violent crime rate of approximately 1.9 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of about 10.5 per 1,000. Annual reports from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency indicate a steady or slightly declining trend in overall crime. Most incidents involve non-violent property offenses, such as theft. The county sheriff’s office encourages community crime reporting, contributing to enhanced local safety. Compared to statewide figures, Lamar County remains relatively safe, with proactive policing helping to maintain low crime rates.