Leighton, AL
Population 711 · Alabama
About Leighton, AL
Leighton is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 711 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $33,214 per year, which is 56% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 48.2 years is notably older the US median age of 38.9 years, suggesting a more established community with a higher proportion of long-term residents.
Housing Market Overview
The housing market in Leighton features a median home value of $85,300, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Leighton one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $436, 63% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 459 total housing units, 66% are owner-occupied (236 units) and 34% are renter-occupied (122 units). The balanced mix of owners and renters indicates a diverse housing market.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Leighton shows an unemployment rate of 7.1%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 24.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Leighton have an average one-way commute time of 23.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
12.8% of Leighton 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, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
How Leighton Ranks in Alabama
Cost of Living in Leighton, AL
Compared to national averages, Leighton has a median household income of $33,214 (56% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $85,300, which is 65% below the national median. Monthly rent at $436 is 63% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Leighton's income is 43% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 46% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Leighton, AL?
Leighton offers affordable housing with a median home value of $85,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $436/month, and short commute times averaging just 23.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($33,214) that falls below the national average. However, Leighton’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Leighton has a population of 711 with a median age of 48.2 years. Compare Leighton with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Leighton
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ariton | 706 | $34,943 | $116,900 | Compare |
| Forkland | 716 | $29,200 | $55,900 | Compare |
| McDonald Chapel | 704 | $59,556 | $132,100 | Compare |
| Brantleyville | 720 | $41,000 | $42,900 | Compare |
| Hollis Crossroads | 724 | $54,135 | $131,400 | Compare |
| Edgewater | 694 | $129,542 | $0 | Compare |
| Eva | 692 | $99,250 | $176,600 | Compare |
| Somerville | 692 | $44,783 | $114,100 | 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.
Compare Leighton With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Leighton
What is the population of Leighton, AL?
The population of Leighton, AL is 711 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 Leighton?
The median household income in Leighton, AL is $33,214 per year, which is 56% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Leighton?
The median home value in Leighton, AL is $85,300, which is 65% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Leighton?
The median monthly rent in Leighton, AL is $436, which is 63% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Leighton?
The unemployment rate in Leighton, AL is 7.1%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Leighton, AL a good place to live?
Leighton offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 711 and a median age of 48.2, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Leighton, AL?
12.8% of residents in Leighton 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 Leighton?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Leighton, AL: median home value is $85,300 (65% below national), median rent is $436/month, and median household income is $33,214. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.6x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Leighton?
The poverty rate in Leighton, AL is 24.5%, 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 Leighton, AL?
Leighton's population is 0.0% White, 0.3% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 56.5% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.