COUNTY PROFILE
Welcome to Shelby County, Alabama!
Shelby County, the geographic center of Alabama and the main suburban county of the Birmingham Region, benefits from its accessible location in the Southeast- the United States’ prime region for economic growth. With a diverse economic base, Alabama’s most educated and productive workforce, and a patchwork of diverse communities surrounded by lush natural beauty, we are one of the South’s most dynamic counties.
World-Class Mountain Biking, Hiking, and Much More
Nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains and the ecologically rich watersheds of the Cahaba and Coosa Rivers, Shelby County, Alabama is a patchwork of diverse communities and neighborhoods surrounded by natural beauty. Shelby County is home to Oak Mountain State Park – Alabama’s largest state park, which offers more than 75 miles of world-class mountain biking and hiking trails to explore.
While we’ve long been known for our fast-growing neighborhoods and high-quality public schools- recent years have brought a richness of arts, cuisine, and outdoor activities that complement the accessibility to Birmingham we’ve always had. Across 808 square miles, you’ll find a mix of culture, business, recreation, housing options, and events that make us one of the South’s most dynamic counties.
A Community For Every Season of Life
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Suburban, family living in Alabaster, Chelsea, Pelham with public schools, shopping districts, and recreation
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Walkable downtown communities with suburban offerings in Calera, Columbiana, Helena, and Montevallo, and unincorporated Dunnavant Valley
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Metro Birmingham executive and golf course living: in Hoover, Birmingham, Pelham or unincorporated areas of Shelby County
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Lake life in Harpersville, Wilsonville, and near Columbiana and along the Coosa River and Lay Lake
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Rural, small town and farm living in Indian Springs Village, Shelby, Sterrett, Vandiver, Vincent, Wilton
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Diverse and Affordable Apartment + Condo Communities
Shelby County by the Numbers
14%
Since 2010
223,024
County Population
$76,116
Income
#1
Attainment in Alabama
#1
Families in Alabama
#1
in Alabama
210
<30
International Airport
65%
Force Participation Rate
80
17,695
160
Sources: US Census, JobsEQ, 58 INC, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, VOICES for Alabama Children