Malvern, AL
Population 1,836 · Alabama
About Malvern, AL
Malvern is a small town located in Alabama with a population of 1,836 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $52,500 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 35.8 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 Malvern features a median home value of $98,300, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Malvern one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $929, 20% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 726 total housing units, 79% are owner-occupied (501 units) and 21% are renter-occupied (133 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Malvern shows an unemployment rate of 2.3%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 28.5%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Malvern have an average one-way commute time of 25 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.7% of Malvern 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 12.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.6% Asian residents, with 6.8% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Malvern, AL
Compared to national averages, Malvern has a median household income of $52,500 (30% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $98,300, which is 60% below the national median. Monthly rent at $929 is 20% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Malvern's income is 9% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 38% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Malvern, AL?
Malvern offers affordable housing with a median home value of $98,300, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $929/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 2.3%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($52,500) that falls below the national average. However, Malvern’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Malvern has a population of 1,836 with a median age of 35.8 years. Compare Malvern with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Malvern
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Collinsville | 1,835 | $31,411 | $0 | Compare |
| Florala | 1,841 | $34,857 | $81,000 | Compare |
| Vance | 1,822 | $76,654 | $208,600 | Compare |
| Vernon | 1,819 | $27,174 | $112,500 | Compare |
| Point Clear | 1,858 | $45,898 | $888,700 | Compare |
| Sardis City | 1,805 | $59,632 | $207,300 | Compare |
| Midland City | 1,803 | $35,638 | $153,400 | Compare |
| Vincent | 1,870 | $42,632 | $141,600 | 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 Malvern With Other Cities
Frequently Asked Questions about Malvern
What is the population of Malvern, AL?
The population of Malvern, AL is 1,836 according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey estimates. This makes it a small town in Alabama.
What is the median household income in Malvern?
The median household income in Malvern, AL is $52,500 per year, which is 30% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Malvern?
The median home value in Malvern, AL is $98,300, which is 60% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Malvern?
The median monthly rent in Malvern, AL is $929, which is 20% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Malvern?
The unemployment rate in Malvern, AL is 2.3%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Malvern, AL a good place to live?
Malvern offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 1,836 and a median age of 35.8, the city appeals to a broad range of residents.
How educated is Malvern, AL?
14.7% of residents in Malvern 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 Malvern?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Malvern, AL: median home value is $98,300 (60% below national), median rent is $929/month, and median household income is $52,500. The home-value-to-income ratio is 1.9x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Malvern?
The poverty rate in Malvern, AL is 28.5%, 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 Malvern, AL?
Malvern's population is 12.4% White, 1.5% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.6% Asian, and 1.0% two or more races. 6.8% of residents are foreign-born.