Alabama’s population is growing, but not all areas are experiencing the same changes. According to new U.S. Census Bureau estimates, major metro areas, coastal counties, and the Wiregrass region are seeing the biggest increases, while some rural counties, particularly in the Black Belt, are losing residents.
Between July 2023 and July 2024, Alabama’s population grew by about 49,000 people, bringing the total to approximately 5.16 million.
Alabama’s larger cities and surrounding areas are experiencing rapid population growth. The Huntsville metro area saw the biggest increase, adding more than 13,000 new residents.
The Birmingham-Hoover metro area also grew, adding about 6,300 people, while Baldwin County, home to popular beach towns, saw an increase of more than 7,500 residents. Mobile County, which includes the state’s only deep-water port, also saw a small population increase.
The five counties with the highest population growth between 2023 and 2024, based on U.S. Census Bureau data, are:
| Rank | County | Population (2022) | Population (2023) | Numeric Change | Percentage Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Limestone | 114,654 | 119,000 | +4,346 | +3.79% |
| 2 | Baldwin | 231,767 | 240,000 | +8,233 | +3.55% |
| 3 | Madison | 388,153 | 400,000 | +11,847 | +3.05% |
| 4 | Lee | 174,241 | 179,000 | +4,759 | +2.73% |
| 5 | Montgomery | 226,941 | 230,000 | +3,059 | +1.35% |
Source: U.S. Census Bureau Population Estimates
Alabama’s coastal areas remain popular, especially Baldwin County, which continues to grow thanks to its scenic location and outdoor lifestyle.
In southeast Alabama, the Wiregrass region, including Dothan, also saw steady growth. The Dothan metro area added about 1,300 people.
While many parts of Alabama are growing, some rural areas, especially in the Black Belt, are losing population.
As Alabama’s population shifts, it will likely impact everything from housing to infrastructure and job opportunities. With urban and coastal areas seeing growth and some rural regions facing declines, state and local leaders may be forced to consider policies that support both expanding communities and those experiencing population loss.
For more details, visit the U.S. Census Bureau’s population estimates: Census Bureau Population Data
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
