Demographics

As of the 2020 Census, Marion County, AL, had a population of 29,341. The median age was 43.4 years. Gender distribution was approximately 49.2% male and 50.8% female. Racially, the population was 90.7% White, 6.4% Black or African American, 0.5% Native American, 0.2% Asian, and 2.1% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

Elections

Marion County, Alabama, had approximately 19,000 registered voters in 2022. Residents participate in primary, general, runoff, and special elections, with recent general elections showing about 70% turnout. Polling locations include city halls and schools in towns like Hamilton (the county seat) and Winfield. Elections are administered by the Marion County Probate Judge’s office. Republican candidates typically dominate, winning over 80% of the vote in the 2020 presidential race. Key issues include education funding and rural infrastructure. Both Democratic and Republican parties maintain local organizations, but Republican affiliation is higher among elected officials.

Education, Employment and Housing

Marion County, AL, has 11 public schools, including 5 high schools, serving around 3,600 students. High school graduation rates exceed 89%, but only about 13% of adults hold a bachelor’s degree or higher. Average school rankings are mid-range, with district scores between 6-7/10. Adult education programs are available, supporting GED and workforce credentials. Schools emphasize safety, with security protocols and a low incident rate. Educational programs include advanced placement, dual enrollment, and career technology pathways, aiming to enhance academic and vocational opportunities for students.

As of 2022, Marion County, AL, had an employment rate of around 54.6%. Key industries include manufacturing (29.5%), health care and social assistance (13.6%), and retail trade (13.3%). The largest occupational groups are production, transportation, and material moving (29.1%), and sales and office occupations (18.7%). About 81.1% of workers commute alone by car, with an average commute time of 26.8 minutes. Most residents are employed locally, though some commute to neighboring counties like Franklin and Winston for employment.

Marion County, AL, has a homeownership rate of about 78%, with median home values around $110,000 in 2023. Median rent is approximately $700 per month. The market trend shows steady values, with annual growth of roughly 2%. Housing includes single-family homes, mobile homes, and a few apartment complexes, mainly in towns like Hamilton and Winfield. Property tax rates are low, averaging 0.35% of assessed value. Neighborhoods are mostly rural or small-town, offering affordable living and spacious lots compared to urban areas, appealing to families and retirees seeking low costs and a quiet lifestyle.

County Crime & Safety

Marion County, AL, reports relatively low crime rates compared to national averages. In 2022, the overall crime rate was about 1,350 incidents per 100,000 people. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, accounted for approximately 180 per 100,000, while property crimes reached 1,170 per 100,000. The sheriff’s office and local police actively encourage community reporting, aiding in a 5% year-over-year decrease in reported crimes. Despite this, residents are advised to practice standard safety precautions.