Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Lowndes County, Alabama has a population of about 10,311. Approximately 73% of residents are Black or African American, 25% are White, and about 2% are other races or Hispanic/Latino. The median age is 43.2 years, with 22% of the population under 18 and nearly 20% aged 65 or older. Females make up about 53% of the population, while males account for 47%.

Elections

Lowndes County, AL, had 8,099 registered voters for the November 2022 general election. The county administers primary, general, and special elections, with 13 polling locations across its precincts. In the 2022 general election, approximately 40% voter turnout was recorded. The county’s administration, led by the Board of Registrars and Probate Judge, manages voter registration, which can be done in-person or online. The Democratic Party dominates local races—Democrats received over 70% of votes in recent statewide contests. Key issues include education and infrastructure. Residents cite voting access and long wait times as ongoing concerns.

Education, Employment and Housing

Lowndes County, AL, operates 5 public schools, including 1 high school. About 77% of adults have a high school diploma, but only around 10% hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. In 2023, the district reported a graduation rate of 87%. Test scores fall below the state average, with a proficiency rate of roughly 20% in math and reading. Educational programs include career tech pathways and adult education. School safety initiatives are in place; however, resource limitations remain a challenge.

As of 2022, Lowndes County, AL had an employment rate of approximately 42%, with about 3,200 residents in the labor force. Major industries include education and health services (23%), retail trade (12%), and public administration (11%). Leading occupations are office/administrative support (14%) and education/training/library roles (13%). Nearly 80% of workers commute outside the county, predominantly to neighboring Montgomery County. The average travel time to work is around 32 minutes.

Lowndes County, AL, has a homeownership rate of approximately 76%, with median home values around $78,000 as of 2023. The median gross rent is about $652 per month. Most housing consists of single-family homes, with some mobile homes and limited multifamily units. Popular neighborhoods include Hayneville and Fort Deposit. Recently, property values have remained relatively stable, with slight increases annually. Property tax rates are low, averaging 0.33% of a property's assessed value, making Lowndes County one of the more affordable housing markets in Alabama.

County Crime & Safety

Lowndes County, AL, experiences higher crime rates compared to state and national averages. In 2023, the county reported a violent crime rate of 7.5 per 1,000 residents and a property crime rate of 28.3 per 1,000. The total crime rate stands at approximately 35.8 per 1,000 residents, exceeding the Alabama state average. Law enforcement and local agencies encourage regular reporting and community involvement to improve safety. Despite recent efforts, continuous focus on crime prevention and neighborhood watch programs remains critical for enhancing security in Lowndes County.