-
Barbour County, Alabama, with an annual GDP of approximately 930 million dollars and a GDP per capita of about 37,387 dollars, is experiencing economic challenges, as indicated by a slight decline in GDP growth of -0.3% over the last year and a negative compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -0.42% over the past 13 years. In comparison to Alabama's overall GDP of 281.6 billion dollars and a per capita GDP of 55,999 dollars, Barbour County lags significantly. The county's economy is heavily reliant on goods-producing sectors, contributing 39.1% to its GDP, which is notably higher than the state average of 22.2%. However, the service sector's contribution of 46.5% is below the state average of 62.3%, indicating a potential area for growth. Overall, Barbour County's economic performance is weaker than both state and national averages, highlighting the need for strategic development initiatives.
Barbour County, AL, exhibits a notably low employment rate of 52.4% for individuals aged 20-64, significantly trailing behind the state average of 68.7% and the national average of 73.8%. The county's employment rate for high school graduates is particularly concerning at 50.6%, compared to Alabama's 63.3% and the national figure of 67.9%. While Barbour County's employment rate for those with a bachelor's degree (79%) is relatively close to the state average (82.6%), the stark contrast in overall employment rates suggests underlying economic challenges. Additionally, the employment rate for Black residents in Barbour County is only 37.5%, which is substantially lower than both the state (52.5%) and national averages (57.2%), indicating significant disparities that may require targeted interventions to improve economic conditions in the region.
Barbour County, AL, exhibits significant economic challenges compared to both state and national averages. With a mean household income of $39,712 and a median household income of $60,128, Barbour County falls well below Alabama's state averages of $59,609 and $82,992, respectively. The county's income per capita of $23,378 is notably lower than the state average of $33,344, indicating a struggle to generate individual wealth. Furthermore, 26% of households earn less than $20,000, a stark contrast to the national figure of 12.1%. The income inequality, reflected in a Gini index of 0.5098, suggests a growing disparity in wealth distribution. Overall, Barbour County's economic indicators highlight a pressing need for development initiatives to improve income levels and reduce poverty.