Arley, AL
Population 518 · Alabama
About Arley, AL
Arley is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 518 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $48,036 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 34.8 years is notably younger the US median age of 38.9 years, indicating a younger, often more dynamic population base.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Arley features a median home value of $86,000, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Arley one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $0, 100% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 198 total housing units, 73% are owner-occupied (118 units) and 27% are renter-occupied (43 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Arley shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 38.8%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Arley have an average one-way commute time of 37.1 minutes, suggesting many residents commute to jobs in a nearby metro area.
Education & Demographics
8.9% of Arley residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The lower educational attainment rate may reflect the area's industry mix, with more employment in trades, manufacturing, or agricultural sectors. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.6% Asian residents, with 1.2% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Arley, AL
Compared to national averages, Arley has a median household income of $48,036 (36% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $86,000, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Arley's income is 17% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 46% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Arley, AL?
Arley offers affordable housing with a median home value of $86,000, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($48,036) that falls below the national average. However, Arley’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Arley has a population of 518 with a median age of 34.8 years. Compare Arley with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Arley
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hackneyville | 519 | $72,045 | $130,200 | Compare |
| Highland Lake | 516 | $65,625 | $268,500 | Compare |
| Grimes | 515 | $32,500 | $80,700 | Compare |
| Perdido | 515 | $36,983 | $214,800 | Compare |
| Ranburne | 524 | $73,750 | $229,800 | Compare |
| West Jefferson | 527 | $36,667 | $136,400 | Compare |
| Fruithurst | 528 | $55,417 | $94,500 | Compare |
| Napier Field | 505 | $43,393 | $81,900 | Compare |
Demographics
Racial & Ethnic Composition
Economy & Education
Housing
Other Cities in Alabama
Data source: US Census Bureau ACS 5-Year Estimates. Last updated: 2026-04-05.
Compare Arley With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Arley
What is the population of Arley, AL?
The population of Arley, AL is 518 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small community in Alabama.
What is the median household income in Arley?
The median household income in Arley, AL is $48,036 per year, which is 36% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Arley?
The median home value in Arley, AL is $86,000, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Arley?
The median monthly rent in Arley, AL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Arley?
The unemployment rate in Arley, AL is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Arley, AL a good place to live?
Arley offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 518 and a median age of 34.8, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is Arley, AL?
8.9% of residents in Arley aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. The educational profile reflects the area's industry mix and employment landscape.
What is the cost of living in Arley?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Arley, AL: median home value is $86,000 (65% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $48,036. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.8x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Arley?
The poverty rate in Arley, AL is 38.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. Residents and prospective movers should be aware of the economic challenges facing parts of this community.
How diverse is Arley, AL?
Arley's population is 0.0% White, 5.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.6% Asian, and 0.0% two or more races. 1.2% of residents are foreign-born.