Ray, AL
Population 488 · Alabama
About Ray, AL
Ray is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 488 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $68,487 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 49.1 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 Ray features a median home value of $142,800, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Ray 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 233 total housing units, 85% are owner-occupied (177 units) and 15% are renter-occupied (32 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Ray shows an unemployment rate of 32.6%, which is significantly above the national rate of 3.7%, suggesting economic challenges in the area. The poverty rate stands at 0.0%, below the national average of 12.4%, reflecting generally favorable economic conditions. Workers in Ray have an average one-way commute time of 20.2 minutes.
Education & Demographics
23.6% of Ray residents aged 25 and older hold a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to the national average of 33.7%. This is in line with national trends in educational attainment. The community's demographic composition includes 0.0% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, and 0.0% Asian residents, with 0.0% of the population being foreign-born.
Cost of Living in Ray, AL
Compared to national averages, Ray has a median household income of $68,487 (9% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $142,800, which is 42% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Ray's income is 18% above the state average of $57,952, and home values are 10% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Ray, AL?
Ray offers affordable housing with a median home value of $142,800, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a low poverty rate of 0.0%, better than the national average. Additionally, the city features short commute times averaging just 20.2 minutes.
Potential considerations include median household income ($68,487) that falls below the national average. However, Ray’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Ray has a population of 488 with a median age of 49.1 years. Compare Ray with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Ray
Cities in Alabama with a similar population size.
| City | Population | Median Income | Home Value | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Clayhatchee | 490 | $53,095 | $98,300 | Compare |
| Lisman | 490 | $42,109 | $73,300 | Compare |
| Pleasant Groves | 490 | $57,850 | $156,000 | Compare |
| Hillsboro | 482 | $59,359 | $177,000 | Compare |
| Nectar | 474 | $46,000 | $156,900 | Compare |
| Excel | 504 | $66,167 | $145,500 | Compare |
| Kennedy | 504 | $42,031 | $103,400 | 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.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Ray
What is the population of Ray, AL?
The population of Ray, AL is 488 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 Ray?
The median household income in Ray, AL is $68,487 per year, which is 9% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Ray?
The median home value in Ray, AL is $142,800, which is 42% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Ray?
The median monthly rent in Ray, AL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Ray?
The unemployment rate in Ray, AL is 32.6%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. Job seekers may want to research the dominant industries in the area.
Is Ray, AL a good place to live?
Ray offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and growing employment opportunities. With a population of 488 and a median age of 49.1, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Ray, AL?
23.6% of residents in Ray 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 Ray?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Ray, AL: median home value is $142,800 (42% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $68,487. The home-value-to-income ratio is 2.1x, indicating relatively affordable housing relative to local incomes.
What is the poverty rate in Ray?
The poverty rate in Ray, AL is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 12.4%. This below-average poverty rate reflects generally favorable economic conditions in the community.
How diverse is Ray, AL?
Ray's population is 0.0% White, 3.9% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 45.9% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.