Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – Baldwin County has experienced remarkable growth over the past three decades. According to data from the Federal Reserve Economic Data and the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has seen substantial increases in employment and population. Per the U.S. Census Bureau, Baldwin County is the 7th fastest growing metropolitan area in the U.S.
Job Growth:
Since 1994, Baldwin County's employment rate has grown by 90%. In 1994, the county had 55,071 employed individuals. By 2004, this number had increased to 70,919. In 2014, the employment figure reached 81,265. The estimate for 2024 shows continued growth, with an expected 104,445 employed individuals.
Population Growth:
The population of Baldwin County has also seen significant growth, increasing by 124% since 1994. The population was 116,565 in 1994. By 2004, it had grown to 156,640. In 2014, the population reached 199,306. The estimate for 2024 predicts a population of 260,998.
These statistics highlight Baldwin County's substantial economic and demographic growth over the past 30 years. The county's expanding employment opportunities and increasing population indicate a thriving and developing community with growing pains.
Infrastructure:
Keeping up with infrastructure development has been a significant challenge for Baldwin County amid its rapid growth. As the population and employment rates have surged, the demand for improved roads, schools, healthcare facilities, and public services has intensified. Local government and planners must continually address these needs to ensure that the infrastructure supports the burgeoning community, balancing the pressures of expansion with maintaining a high quality of life for residents. This ongoing challenge requires strategic planning and investment to accommodate the county's dynamic growth trajectory.