Of the 929,178 citizens living in Shelby County in 2021, 97.2% said they were only one race, while 2.8% said they were two or more races, according to U.S. Census Bureau data obtained in June.
The most prevalent racial group among citizens in Shelby County who reported being of a single race in 2021 was African American, comprising 53.8% or 499,760 individuals. Following them, white accounted for 37.5% and totaled 348,349 individuals.
The percentage of multiracial residents in Shelby County is 1% lower than the state average, which stands at 3.8%.
An agency of the U.S. Federal Statistical System, the Census Bureau is responsible for compiling statistical facts about the American people, places and economy. Data for this story was compiled from the bureau’s American Community Survey. Information from the survey helps to determine how federal and state funds are distributed. These funds significantly influence community services, education, and infrastructure in areas like Shelby County.
| Estimated Total | |
|---|---|
| African American | 499,760 |
| White | 348,349 |
| Multiracial | 26,363 |
| Some Other Race | 26,101 |
| Asian | 25,754 |
| American Indian or Alaska Native | 2,235 |
| Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander | 616 |
Source: US Census Bureau
