Alabama, as of the 2020 census, has a population exceeding 4.9 million people. Although the state has grown overall by 5.1% since 2010, not every county has shared in this growth. Surprisingly, 30 out of the 67 counties have witnessed a decrease in population over the past decade.
A number of counties facing the most significant population loss are situated in the Black Belt region. This area is renowned for its fertile soil, agricultural history, and a predominantly African American population.
The Black Belt grapples with various challenges, including poverty, unemployment, inadequate education, limited infrastructure, and environmental issues.
In this article, we will delve into the five Alabama counties that have encountered the swiftest population decline since the last census, exploring potential reasons behind their diminishing numbers.
Perry County
Perry County, located in Alabama, experienced the largest population decline among the state’s counties, dropping from 10,591 in 2010 to 7,887 in 2020 – a significant 25.53% decrease.
Situated in the Black Belt region, Perry County has a history marked by racial oppression, violence, and activism. The infamous Marion Massacre occurred here in 1965, during which state troopers attacked civil rights protesters, resulting in the tragic death of activist Jimmie Lee Jackson.
With a median household income of $28,343, Perry County has one of the lowest incomes in the state, coupled with a high poverty rate of 34.5%.
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Monroe County
In 2020, Monroe County, Alabama, had a population of 18,782, making it the second-fastest-shrinking county in the state. This marked a decline from 23,068 in 2010, reflecting a 14.29% drop—the second-largest percentage decrease in any county in Alabama.
Situated in southwest Alabama, near the Florida panhandle, Monroe County is renowned for its literary history, being the birthplace of Harper Lee, author of To Kill a Mockingbird, and Truman Capote, author of In Cold Blood. The county has a median household income of $35,028 and a poverty rate of 24.9%.
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Conecuh County
Conecuh County, situated in south-central Alabama between Mobile and Dothan, saw a population decrease from 13,228 in 2010 to 11,108 in 2020, marking a 12.33% decline. This makes it the third-fastest-shrinking county in Alabama, with the third-largest percentage drop in the state.
Despite its declining population, Conecuh County is renowned for its natural beauty, wildlife, and outdoor activities. Notably, the Conecuh National Forest spans 83,000 acres, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, fishing, and hunting. The county has a median household income of $31,433 and a poverty rate of 25.8%.
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Dallas County
Dallas County in Alabama experienced a 12.23% population decline, making it the fourth-fastest-shrinking county in the state. The population decreased from 43,820 in 2010 to 36,854 in 2020. This decline is the fourth-largest percentage drop among all counties in Alabama.
Situated in central Alabama along the Alabama River, Dallas County holds historical significance as the birthplace of the Voting Rights Movement and the location of the Selma to Montgomery marches in 1965. The county has a median household income of $30,488 and a poverty rate of 32.9%.
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Clarke County
Clarke County, situated in southwest Alabama along the Tombigbee River, experienced a 10.63% population decline from 25,833 in 2010 to 22,262 in 2020. This makes it the fifth-fastest-shrinking county in Alabama, with the fifth-largest percentage drop in the state.
Known for its rich historical and cultural diversity, Clarke County has been home to Native American, European, African, and American settlers.
Additionally, the county hosts Alabama Southern Community College, providing academic and vocational programs to regional students. The median household income in Clarke County is $36,777, with a poverty rate of 23.1%.
Read More: Discover the 5 Most Dangerous Neighborhoods in Clarke County, Georgia
Conclusion
The most rapid population decline in Alabama has occurred in Perry, Monroe, Conecuh, Dallas, and Clarke counties. These areas are mainly situated in the Black Belt region, which has encountered various economic, social, and environmental challenges over time.
Factors such as the closure of major employers, a downturn in the agricultural sector, inadequate infrastructure and amenities, subpar education and healthcare, and the impact of natural disasters may have contributed to the population decline in these counties.
To reverse this trend and enhance their quality of life, these counties require increased investment, development, and support from both state and federal governments, as well as from the private and nonprofit sectors.
