| Statistic | Selma | Alabama | National |
| Population | 17,762 | 4,903,185 | 328,239,523 |
| Population density (sq mi) | 1,286 | 97 | 91 |
| Median age | 36.8 | 38.6 | 37.7 |
| Male/Female ratio | 0.8:1 | 0.9:1 | 1.0:1 |
| Married (15yrs & older) | 39% | 57% | 55% |
| Families w/ Kids under 18 | 36% | 40% | 43% |
| Speak English | 98% | 95% | 79% |
| Speak Spanish | 0% | 3% | 13% |
Understanding the demographics of Selma 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 Selma population is 17,762, with a population density of 1,286 people per square mile, diverging from the national average of 91. The median age is 36.8, and 39% of individuals aged 15 or older are married, while 36% have children under 18. As far as income equality in Selma, 44% of households have a median income below $25,000, whereas 4% report an income exceeding $150,000, indicating a varied economic landscape within the area.
The 5 largest ethnic groups in Selma are 14.7% White, 83.4% Black or African American, 1.4% Asian, 0.2% American Indian and 0.1% Native Hawaiian, with 0.4% of the population identifying as Hispanic or Latino. Of note, 98% of households reported speaking English only, while 0.5% reported speaking Spanish only. Additionally, 1.9% of residents were classified as foreign-born. The Selma racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown are essential for comprehending and addressing systemic inequities, advancing social justice and inclusion and cultivating resilient communities.
Selma, 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 Selma population density stands at 1,286, exceeding the national average, at 91 people per square mile, positioning it in a nice position to reap the benefits of densely populated areas.
Social Cohesion: Analyzing demographics is vital for nurturing social cohesion and fostering understanding among diverse communities. By embracing and respecting variations in Selma demographics, societies can advance inclusivity, diversity and social unity while combatting social inequalities and advocating for equal opportunities. Racial demographics mirror the diversity within a population and can be instrumental in cultivating inclusive and inviting communities. Embracing diversity strengthens social bonds, fosters cultural appreciation and enriches society by acknowledging the contributions of individuals from various racial and ethnic backgrounds.
Healthcare Planning: By analyzing the Selma demographic data, it can potentially inform healthcare planning and delivery by identifying population health needs, disparities, and risk factors. Understanding demographic trends helps healthcare providers and policymakers allocate resources, develop prevention and intervention programs, and address health inequities within communities. By leveraging demographic data, healthcare providers and policymakers can work towards achieving equitable, accessible, and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures that interventions are targeted, resources are allocated efficiently, and healthcare services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of populations.
Education Allocation: Utilizing census data like Selma demographics can be useful in guiding education planning, as it helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources and devising effective educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among various demographic groups, including racial and ethnic minorities, socio-economic status and students with disabilities. By disaggregating data based on demographic factors, education planners can pinpoint areas of inequity and implement targeted interventions to enhance access, support and outcomes for marginalized students. In essence, Selma demographic statistics can play an indispensable role in education by promoting equity, bolstering student success and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.
| Race | Selma | Alabama | National |
| White | 14.66% | 68.68% | 73.35% |
| Black | 83.41% | 26.48% | 12.63% |
| Asian | 1.41% | 1.25% | 5.22% |
| American Indian | 0.22% | 0.49% | 0.82% |
| Native Hawaiian | 0.06% | 0.04% | 0.18% |
| Mixed race | 0.24% | 1.76% | 3.06% |
| Other race | 0.00% | 1.28% | 4.75% |
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