Bessemer, AL
Population 25,655 · Alabama
About Bessemer, AL
Bessemer is a mid-sized city in Alabama with a population of 25,655 residents. The median household income is $37,844 per year, which is below the national average. The median age in Bessemer is 42.8 years.
Housing in Bessemer has a median home value of $129,800 and median monthly rent of $922. Of the 12,612 total housing units, the majority are owner-occupied, with 5,837 owner-occupied and 4,761 renter-occupied units.
The unemployment rate in Bessemer is 8.8% and the poverty rate is 30.7%. 14.4% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher. The average commute time is 25.6 minutes.
How Bessemer Ranks in Alabama
Cost of Living in Bessemer, AL
Compared to national averages, Bessemer has a median household income of $37,844 (50% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $129,800, which is 47% below the national median. Monthly rent at $922 is 21% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Bessemer's income is 35% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 19% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Bessemer, AL?
Bessemer offers affordable housing with a median home value of $129,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $922/month.
Potential considerations include median household income ($37,844) that falls below the national average. However, Bessemer’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Bessemer has a population of 25,655 with a median age of 42.8 years. Compare Bessemer with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Bessemer
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trussville | 26,182 | $120,794 | $351,500 | Compare |
| Pelham | 24,510 | $91,904 | $278,900 | Compare |
| Athens | 27,474 | $65,000 | $253,700 | Compare |
| Homewood | 27,697 | $108,386 | $502,300 | Compare |
| Fairhope | 23,360 | $86,509 | $406,500 | Compare |
| Daphne | 28,673 | $86,479 | $309,700 | Compare |
| Albertville | 22,584 | $57,103 | $158,900 | Compare |
| Foley | 22,330 | $67,346 | $260,100 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Bessemer
What is the population of Bessemer, AL?
The population of Bessemer, AL is 25,655 according to the latest Census data.
What is the median household income in Bessemer?
The median household income in Bessemer, AL is $37,844 per year.
What is the median home value in Bessemer?
The median home value in Bessemer, AL is $129,800.
What is the average rent in Bessemer?
The median monthly rent in Bessemer, AL is $922.
What is the unemployment rate in Bessemer?
The unemployment rate in Bessemer, AL is 8.8%.