| Statistic | Birmingham | Alabama | National |
| Population | 210,928 | 4,903,185 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,435 | 97 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.2 | 38.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.9:1 | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 39% | 57% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 34% | 40% | 43% |
| Speak English | 94% | 95% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 4% | 3% | 13% |
The demographics of Birmingham offer invaluable insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of both urban and rural areas, empowering planners, developers and policymakers to foster prosperity, equity, and well-being for all residents. With a population of 210,928, Birmingham exhibits a population density of 1,435 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 36.2, with 39% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 34% having children under 18. In terms of income equality in Birmingham, 33% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 8% report an income exceeding $150,000, showcasing a diverse economic landscape.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Birmingham are 26.6% White, 68.3% Black or African American, 1.2% Asian, 0.2% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 4.1% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 94.2% of households reported speaking English only, while 3.7% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 4% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Birmingham racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Areas like Birmingham that have a higher than average population density tend to support environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, walking, cycling and the use of public transit, promoting sustainable lifestyles and reducing environmental impact. Densely populated areas also tend to have more vibrant social and cultural scenes, with a diverse population contributing to a wide array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This diversity fosters creativity, innovation and cross-cultural exchange, enriching the social fabric of the community. The Birmingham population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,435 people per square mile (compared to the nationwide average of 91), putting it in a position to take advantage of all the benefits of a densely populated area.
Understanding Populations: By reporting and analyzing Birmingham demographics, we can acquire valuable insights into the makeup and traits of populations, encompassing age, gender, race, ethnicity, income, education and various socio-economic factors. This comprehension is vital for tackling the varied needs, preferences, and obstacles encountered by different demographic groups within communities. Demographics serve a pivotal role in comprehending populations, guiding decision-making processes and advancing equity, inclusion and overall well-being for all individuals and communities. The Birmingham population data serves as a cornerstone for addressing social, economic and environmental challenges, while also fostering the well-being and strength of communities.
Social Cohesion: The analysis and understanding of demographics are essential for promoting social cohesion and fostering appreciation among diverse communities. By embracing and acknowledging differences in Birmingham demographics, societies can promote inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while addressing social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics can reflect the diversity within a population and are instrumental in fostering inclusive and welcoming communities. Embracing ethnic diversity strengthens social connections, promotes cultural understanding and enriches society by celebrating the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Policy Planning: At various levels of government and within organizations and businesses, demographic data and statistics serve as essential tools for guiding policy and decision-making processes. Through the examination and interpretation of Birmingham demographic stats and data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas requiring attention, allocate resources judiciously and design policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic segments. The utilization of Birmingham demographic data plays a pivotal role in policy formulation by informing resource allocation, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, predicting future trends, assessing policy effectiveness, and advancing principles of equity and inclusivity. Through effective utilization of this data, policymakers can craft policies that are targeted, efficient, and responsive to the diverse needs of communities.
| Race | Birmingham | Alabama | National |
| White | 26.59% | 68.68% | 73.35% |
| Black | 68.29% | 26.48% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 1.25% | 1.25% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.20% | 0.49% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.04% | 0.04% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 2.00% | 1.76% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 1.63% | 1.28% | 4.75% |
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