Demographics

As of 2022, Lee County, AL, has a population of approximately 185,000. The median age is 30.5 years, reflecting a younger demographic due to Auburn University. About 50.2% are male and 49.8% female. Racially, the population is 67% White, 24% Black or African American, 4% Asian, and 5% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Lee County, AL had 110,000 residents in 2023, with 74,200 registered voters. Voters participate in federal, state, and local elections—including for school board and city council. In the 2020 presidential election, 56% voted Republican and 43% Democrat. There are 28 polling locations, managed by the Lee County Board of Registrars and Probate Judge. Key issues include education funding and local infrastructure. Elections are generally well-administered, with both Democratic and Republican parties active in voter outreach. In 2022, voter turnout was 58%, slightly above the state average.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lee County, AL, boasts around 25 public schools, including 7 high schools, and a literacy rate of approximately 87%. About 30.4% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Schools maintain an average GreatSchools score of 6/10, while district graduation rates surpass 90%. Auburn University and Southern Union State Community College offer robust adult and continuing education. School safety initiatives include on-campus resource officers and security upgrades. Educational programs cover STEM, AP courses, and career tech, supporting diverse student pursuits.

As of 2023, Lee County, AL, has an unemployment rate of approximately 2.3%. Major employment sectors include education and health services (27%), retail trade (12%), manufacturing (10%), and accommodation and food services (10%). About 55% of workers are employed in management, business, science, and arts occupations. The average commute time is 22 minutes, with over 80% driving alone to work. Key employment locations include Auburn University and East Alabama Medical Center, attracting a significant influx of daily commuters from nearby counties.

Lee County, AL, has a homeownership rate of around 58%, with a median home value of approximately $270,000 in 2024. Rental rates average $1,200/month. The market has seen annual property value increases of about 7%. Housing includes single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments, concentrated in neighborhoods like Auburn, Opelika, and Smiths Station. Property taxes are low, averaging $650/year for a median-priced home. The area balances suburban settings with urban amenities, drawing residents due to Auburn University’s influence on both population and housing demand.

County Crime & Safety

Lee County, AL's crime rate is moderate, with a violent crime rate of 3.4 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 18.9 per 1,000, according to FBI 2022 data. Auburn and Opelika, the county's largest cities, maintain active police reporting and community programs. The overall safety index places Lee County below the national average for violent crimes, but slightly above for property crimes. Residents are encouraged to report incidents to local law enforcement, contributing to ongoing safety improvements and detailed annual crime statistics.