| Statistic | Decatur | Alabama | National |
| Population | 54,344 | 4,903,185 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,000 | 97 | 91 |
| Median age | 40.4 | 38.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 1.0:1 | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 57% | 57% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 38% | 40% | 43% |
| Speak English | 88% | 95% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 11% | 3% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Decatur is essential for gaining insights into the composition, dynamics and needs of any city, town or village. This knowledge empowers planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively, promoting prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents. The Decatur population is 54,344, with a population density of 1,000 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 40.4, and 57% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 38% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Decatur, 26% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 14% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Decatur are 66.5% White, 22.3% Black or African American, 0.3% Asian, 0.2% American Indian and 0% Native Hawaiian, with 13.9% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 87.8% of households reported speaking English only, while 10.7% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 6.7% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Decatur racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Decatur, characterized by above-average population density, plays a pivotal role in promoting environmental sustainability by reducing per capita energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions and land use. Its compact urban development encourages energy-efficient buildings, active transportation modes like walking and cycling and the utilization of public transit, fostering sustainable lifestyles and mitigating environmental impact. Additionally, the area's dense population contributes to a vibrant social and cultural scene, featuring a diverse array of cultural events, festivals and community activities. This cultural diversity fuels creativity, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, enhancing the community's social fabric. The Decatur population density stands at 1,000, exceeding the national average, at 91 people per square mile, positioning it in a nice position to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
Education Allocation: In education planning, Decatur demographic data can be invaluable for identifying student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data aids schools and policymakers in resource allocation and the formulation of effective educational programs. It serves as a crucial tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among different demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. Through the disaggregation of data by demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Overall, Decatur demographic data can be an essential tool in education for promoting equity, facilitating student success, and nurturing inclusive learning environments that cater to the needs of all students.
Social Cohesion: The reporting and analysis of demographics are essential for fostering social cohesion and understanding among diverse communities. By acknowledging and valuing differences in Decatur demographics, societies can champion inclusivity, diversity and social harmony while tackling social disparities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics showcase the varied makeup of a population and play a vital role in nurturing inclusive and hospitable communities. Embracing diversity bolsters social cohesion, enhances cultural comprehension and enriches society by honoring the contributions of individuals from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Urban Development: Urban planners can leverage demographics data in Decatur to design and develop areas that cater to residents' needs, spanning housing, transportation, and public services, while prioritizing sustainability and enhancing quality of life. Demographic changes can contribute to gentrification and neighborhood evolution, whether in urban or rural contexts. As neighborhoods attract new residents with diverse income levels and lifestyle preferences, property values may appreciate, potentially displacing longstanding residents and reshaping the neighborhood's identity. Understanding population density, age distribution, household size and income levels is essential for guiding decisions on zoning, transportation infrastructure, housing development and public amenities. Incorporating Decatur demographics data into planning and implementing affordable housing initiatives can help mitigate displacement risks.
| Race | Decatur | Alabama | National |
| White | 66.47% | 68.68% | 73.35% |
| Black | 22.32% | 26.48% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 0.26% | 1.25% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.19% | 0.49% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.05% | 0.04% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 3.70% | 1.76% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 7.02% | 1.28% | 4.75% |
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