Demographics

As of 2022, Lawrence County, AL, has a population of approximately 33,073. The median age is 43.3 years. About 49.2% of residents are male, and 50.8% female. Racially, the county is 75.6% White, 11.3% Black or African American, 6.7% American Indian, and 4.5% Two or More Races; Hispanic or Latino individuals make up 3.4% of the population.

Elections

Lawrence County, AL, had 23,617 registered voters in 2022. Voters participate in local, state, and federal elections, including primaries, general, and runoff elections. In the 2020 presidential election, 68% voted Republican, 31% Democrat. The county maintains about 20 polling locations, overseen by the Board of Registrars and Probate Judge. Issues include rural access, voter turnout (63% in 2020), and redistricting. The Republican and Democratic parties are active, with Republicans holding most local offices. Voter registration is available online and in-person, requiring photo ID at polls.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lawrence County, AL, has 13 public schools, including 2 high schools, serving over 3,600 students. The high school graduation rate is approximately 92%. About 13% of adults hold a bachelor's degree or higher, below the national average. Schools have an average rating of 5/10 on GreatSchools. Safety measures include campus resource officers and regular drills. Educational programs feature career tech and dual enrollment options. Adult education classes are available through local community colleges, supporting workforce development.

As of 2023, Lawrence County, AL, reported an unemployment rate of approximately 2.8%. Major employment sectors include manufacturing (22%), educational services and healthcare (21%), and retail trade (12%). The leading occupation types are production (16%), office/administrative support (14%), and management (10%). Around 81% of employed residents commute outside the county for work, with Decatur and Huntsville being primary destinations. The average commute time is about 27 minutes.

Lawrence County, AL, has a homeownership rate of approximately 78%, with median home values around $145,000 and median rents near $800/month. Recent years have seen property values rise about 8% annually. Housing types are primarily single-family homes, with some manufactured homes and limited apartment complexes. Notable neighborhoods include Moulton, Town Creek, and Courtland, offering rural and small-town atmospheres. Property taxes are low, averaging 0.33% of home value—roughly $475 annually on a $145,000 property—making Lawrence County one of the more affordable places to own a home in Alabama.

County Crime & Safety

Lawrence County, AL, maintains a moderate crime rate compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the county reported approximately 210 total crimes, including 25 violent crimes and 185 property crimes, resulting in a crime rate of about 16.3 per 1,000 residents. The Lawrence County Sheriff’s Office actively encourages community reporting and implements regular patrols to enhance safety. Overall, while property-related offenses account for the majority of incidents, the area continues to emphasize proactive safety measures, with crime rates showing a slight decline year-over-year according to the latest official statistics.