Carbon Hill is a city located in Walker County in the northwestern part of the state of Alabama, United States. It is incorporated within the Birmingham‑Hoover Metropolitan Statistical Area.
Geography
Carbon Hill lies at latitude 33°51′02″ N and longitude 87°09′48″ W. According to the United States Census Bureau, the city encompasses a total area of approximately 1.2 square miles (3.1 km²), all of which is land. The city sits at an elevation of roughly 450 feet (137 meters) above sea level.
History
The community that became Carbon Hill developed in the early 20th century as a coal‑mining town. Its name reflects the abundant carbon‑rich coal deposits that were mined in the surrounding area. Carbon Hill was formally incorporated as a city in 1917. The local economy historically centered on coal extraction and related industries, although mining activity has declined markedly since the mid‑20th century.
Demographics
Population – The 2020 United States Census recorded a population of 1,216 residents in Carbon Hill. This represented a decline from the 2010 census count of 1,381.
Racial composition – The city’s population is predominantly White, with smaller percentages of Black or African American residents and other racial or ethnic groups. Precise percentages are provided in census tables but are not reproduced here to avoid speculation.
Household and income data – According to the American Community Survey, median household income in Carbon Hill has historically been below the state average, with a notable portion of families living below the poverty line. Exact figures vary by survey year and should be consulted directly from census publications for the most current data.
Education
Public education in Carbon Hill is administered by the Walker County Board of Education. The city is served by Carbon Hill Elementary School, Carbon Hill Middle School, and Carbon Hill High School, the latter of which is known for its athletic programs, particularly football.
Transportation
State Route 13 passes through Carbon Hill, providing north‑south access to neighboring communities such as Jasper to the north and the county seat of Walker County, which lies to the south. The city is also positioned near Interstate 22 (U.S. Route 78), linking the region to larger metropolitan centers.
Economy and infrastructure
While coal mining has diminished, Carbon Hill’s local economy includes small businesses, retail establishments, and service industries that cater to residents and the surrounding rural area. The city maintains basic municipal services, including police, fire protection, and utilities, coordinated through Walker County agencies.
Notable points
Carbon Hill’s historic downtown area contains several structures dating to the early 1900s, reflecting its mining heritage. The city’s name continues to be a reminder of the region’s role in Alabama’s coal production during the 20th century.
References
- United States Census Bureau, Decennial Census and American Community Survey data.
- Walker County historical records and municipal archives.
All information presented reflects data available from reliable government and historical sources as of the latest public records.