McDonald Chapel, AL
Population 704 · Alabama
About McDonald Chapel, AL
McDonald Chapel is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 704 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $59,556 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 33.3 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 McDonald Chapel features a median home value of $132,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. This makes McDonald Chapel one of the more affordable markets in the country, potentially attractive for first-time homebuyers. Median monthly rent is $1,081, 7% below the national average of $1,163/month. Of the 342 total housing units, 37% are owner-occupied (94 units) and 63% are renter-occupied (157 units). The higher proportion of renters may reflect a transient population, younger demographics, or high housing costs relative to income.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in McDonald Chapel shows an unemployment rate of 30.4%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 11.8%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in McDonald Chapel have an average one-way commute time of 27.1 minutes.
Education & Demographics
14.3% of McDonald Chapel 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 4.5% White, 8.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 1.1% Asian residents, with 2.1% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in McDonald Chapel, AL
Compared to national averages, McDonald Chapel has a median household income of $59,556 (21% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $132,100, which is 46% below the national median. Monthly rent at $1,081 is 7% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, McDonald Chapel's income is 3% above the state average of $57,952, and home values are 17% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in McDonald Chapel, AL?
McDonald Chapel offers affordable housing with a median home value of $132,100, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $1,081/month, and a low poverty rate of 11.8%, better than the national average.
Potential considerations include median household income ($59,556) that falls below the national average. However, McDonald Chapel’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
McDonald Chapel has a population of 704 with a median age of 33.3 years. Compare McDonald Chapel with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
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Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
Demographics
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Economy & Education
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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 McDonald Chapel
What is the population of McDonald Chapel, AL?
The population of McDonald Chapel, AL is 704 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 McDonald Chapel?
The median household income in McDonald Chapel, AL is $59,556 per year, which is 21% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in McDonald Chapel?
The median home value in McDonald Chapel, AL is $132,100, which is 46% below the national median of $244,900. A significant portion of residents rent their homes.
What is the average rent in McDonald Chapel?
The median monthly rent in McDonald Chapel, AL is $1,081, which is 7% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in McDonald Chapel?
The unemployment rate in McDonald Chapel, AL is 30.4%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is McDonald Chapel, AL a good place to live?
McDonald Chapel offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 704 and a median age of 33.3, the city appeals to young professionals and families.
How educated is McDonald Chapel, AL?
14.3% of residents in McDonald Chapel 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 McDonald Chapel?
Key cost-of-living indicators for McDonald Chapel, AL: median home value is $132,100 (46% below national), median rent is $1,081/month, and median household income is $59,556. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.2x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in McDonald Chapel?
The poverty rate in McDonald Chapel, AL is 11.8%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is McDonald Chapel, AL?
McDonald Chapel's population is 4.5% White, 8.1% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 1.1% Asian, and 58.1% two or more races. 2.1% of residents are foreign-born.