Zip Code 36609
AL · Population: 23,552
About Zip Code 36609
Zip code 36609 is located in Alabama and is home to approximately 23,552 residents. It receives an overall grade of C (score: 49/100), based on safety, affordability, quality of life, and employment metrics.
This area experiences higher crime rates than the national average. Residents should be aware of safety considerations.
Housing costs are a challenge in this area, with home values at $179,300 and median rent of $991/month against a median income of $46,173. Many residents face a significant housing cost burden.
About 33.1% of adults have a college degree, roughly in line with national averages.
Unemployment stands at 5%, which is near the national average.
Scores are percentile-based: a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that dimension. Data is sourced from the US Census Bureau (ACS 5-year estimates) and the FBI Uniform Crime Report.
Demographics & Economics
Score Breakdown
| Dimension | Score | Grade | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | 39 | D | Lower crime = higher score |
| Affordability | 36 | D | Lower cost relative to income = higher |
| Quality of Life | 58 | C+ | Education, commute, ownership |
| Jobs & Economy | 63 | B | Lower unemployment = higher |
| Overall | 49 | C | Weighted average |
Methodology
All scores are percentile-based (0–100): a score of 85 means this zip code ranks better than 85% of all US zip codes on that metric. Safety uses FBI Uniform Crime Report state-level data (Phase 2 will add zip-level granularity). Economic and demographic data is from the US Census Bureau American Community Survey (ACS) 5-year estimates (2022).