Statistic Selma Alabama National
Population 18,220 5,019,994 336,919,644
Population density (sq mi) 1,319 99 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%
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Overview of Selma Demographics

The population in Selma is 18,220, while the population density is 1,319 people per square mile, contrasting with the national average of 91. The median age stands at 36.8, with 39% of individuals aged 15 or older being married and 36% having children under 18. In terms of household income equality in Selma, 44% of households report a median income below $25,000, while 4% report an income exceeding $150,000. The Selma demographics data can provide invaluable insight into the composition, dynamics and needs of urban and rural areas, enabling planners, developers and policymakers to strategize effectively for the promotion of prosperity, equity and well-being for all residents in the area.

Selma Racial Demographics & Ethnicity

Recognizing the racial demographics and ethnicity breakdown of Selma is pivotal for addressing systemic inequities, championing social justice and inclusion and fostering resilient communities. In Selma, the racial breakdown comprises 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. 98% of households reported speaking English only, while 0.5% reported speaking Spanish only. Furthermore, 1.9% of residents were categorized as foreign-born.

Selma Population Density

Areas like Selma 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 Selma population density is higher than average and comes in at 1,319 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.

Why are Demographics Important?

Policy Planning: Demographic data and statistics play a fundamental role in informing policy and decision-making processes across government entities, organizations and businesses. Through the analysis and interpretation of Selma demographic data, policymakers, government officials, and organizational leaders can pinpoint areas of concern, allocate resources efficiently, and devise policies and initiatives tailored to the specific needs and preferences of distinct demographic groups. The utilization of demographics in Selma can be crucial in policy planning, facilitating evidence-based decision-making, identifying key priorities, forecasting future trends, monitoring policy outcomes and advancing principles of equity and inclusion. By harnessing this data effectively, policymakers can develop policies that are targeted, effective and inclusive, thus meeting the diverse needs of communities.

Healthcare Planning: The analysis of Selma demographics can offer insights into healthcare planning and delivery, identifying population health needs, disparities and risk factors. By understanding demographic trends, healthcare providers and policymakers can allocate resources effectively, develop prevention and intervention programs and address health inequities within communities. Through the use of demographic data and statistics, healthcare providers and policymakers aim to achieve equitable, accessible and high-quality healthcare for all individuals and communities. This proactive approach to healthcare planning ensures targeted interventions, efficient resource allocation and customized healthcare services to meet the diverse needs of populations.

Education Allocation: Education planning benefits significantly from Selma demographic information, which helps identify student demographics, school enrollment trends, and educational needs. This data assists schools and policymakers in allocating resources effectively and devising impactful educational programs. It serves as a vital tool for recognizing disparities in educational access and outcomes among diverse 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 improve access, support, and outcomes for marginalized students. Ultimately, Selma demographic data is essential in education for advancing equity, fostering student success, and cultivating inclusive learning environments tailored to meet the needs of all students.

Demographics Quick Facts

  • The population density in Selma is 1231% higher than Alabama
  • The median age in Selma is 5% lower than Alabama
  • In Selma 14.66% of the population is White
  • In Selma 83.41% of the population is Black
  • In Selma 1.41% of the population is Asian

Compare Selma, AL Demographics

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      Selma racial demographics

      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%
      In Selma, 0.4% of people are of Hispanic or Latino origin.
      Please note: Hispanics may be of any race, so also are included in any/all of the applicable race categories above.

      Household income distribution

      Place of birth by citizenship

      Selma age breakdown

      Marital status

      Age of children in married couples

      Source: The Selma, AL demographics data displayed above is derived from the United States Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) and include 2026 modeled data developed using proprietary methodologies.