Shelby, AL
Population 691 · Alabama
About Shelby, AL
Shelby is a small community located in Alabama with a population of 691 residents according to the latest US Census Bureau American Community Survey data. The median household income is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149. The median age of 58 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 Shelby features a median home value of $95,200, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. This makes Shelby 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 380 total housing units, 92% are owner-occupied (291 units) and 8% are renter-occupied (24 units). The high homeownership rate suggests a stable, established residential community.
Economy & Employment
The local economy in Shelby shows an unemployment rate of 0.0%, which is lower than the national rate of 3.7%, indicating a relatively strong job market. The poverty rate stands at 15.1%, above the national average of 12.4%. Workers in Shelby have an average one-way commute time of 25.6 minutes.
Education & Demographics
18.1% of Shelby 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, 0.0% 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 Shelby, AL
Compared to national averages, Shelby has a median household income of $0 (100% below the national median of $75,149). Home values average $95,200, which is 61% below the national median. Monthly rent at $0 is 100% below the US average of $1,163. Within Alabama, Shelby's income is 100% below the state average of $57,952, and home values are 40% below the state median of $159,358.
Why Live in Shelby, AL?
Shelby offers affordable housing with a median home value of $95,200, below the US average of $244,900, and rent that’s lower than the national average at $0/month, and a strong job market with an unemployment rate of just 0.0%.
Potential considerations include median household income ($0) that falls below the national average. However, Shelby’s smaller community size offers a quieter lifestyle and tight-knit neighborhoods.
Shelby has a population of 691 with a median age of 58 years. Compare Shelby with other cities to see how it stacks up, or explore all cities in Alabama.
Similar Cities Near Shelby
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 Shelby
What is the population of Shelby, AL?
The population of Shelby, AL is 691 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 Shelby?
The median household income in Shelby, AL is $0 per year, which is 100% below the national median of $75,149.
What is the median home value in Shelby?
The median home value in Shelby, AL is $95,200, which is 61% below the national median of $244,900. The majority of housing units are owner-occupied.
What is the average rent in Shelby?
The median monthly rent in Shelby, AL is $0, which is 100% below the national average of $1,163/month.
What is the unemployment rate in Shelby?
The unemployment rate in Shelby, AL is 0.0%, compared to the national average of 3.7%. This lower-than-average rate suggests a relatively healthy local job market.
Is Shelby, AL a good place to live?
Shelby offers a moderate cost of living, affordable housing, and a strong job market. With a population of 691 and a median age of 58, the city appeals to established professionals and retirees.
How educated is Shelby, AL?
18.1% of residents in Shelby 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 Shelby?
Key cost-of-living indicators for Shelby, AL: median home value is $95,200 (61% below national), median rent is $0/month, and median household income is $0. The home-value-to-income ratio is Infinityx, which suggests housing may be stretched relative to local earnings.
What is the poverty rate in Shelby?
The poverty rate in Shelby, AL is 15.1%, 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 Shelby, AL?
Shelby's population is 0.0% White, 0.0% Hispanic or Latino, 0.0% Black or African American, 0.0% Asian, and 17.2% two or more races. 0.0% of residents are foreign-born.