Is Saks Safe, Pros and cons of living in Saks

Saks, Alabama, is a census-designated place located in Calhoun County, offering a community feel within the Anniston-Oxford Metropolitan Statistical Area. It is known for its blend of residential areas and proximity to regional economic centers. The community is served by the City of Anniston for police and fire coverage, providing a safety net for its residents.

The area’s demographics show a diverse population, with a significant portion identifying as White and Black or African American, alongside smaller percentages of other racial and ethnic groups. This diversity contributes to the unique cultural fabric of Saks. The median age in Saks is around 40.5 years, indicating a population with a mix of working adults and older residents.

Is it Safe to Live in Saks?

Saks, Alabama, presents a mixed safety profile, with overall crime rates comparable to national averages. The community has a crime rate of approximately 23.86 per 1,000 residents annually (according to CrimeGrade.org). While this figure suggests a level of safety similar to many U.S. cities, it’s important to note that crime can vary by neighborhood within Saks.

Your likelihood of being a victim of crime can differ significantly depending on the specific area within Saks. For instance, some southeast neighborhoods may present a higher risk, with a chance of victimization around 1 in 25, while northwest areas are considered safer, with a chance closer to 1 in 56 (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). Property crime rates are slightly lower than the national average, with about 10.89 incidents per 1,000 residents annually (according to CrimeGrade.org).

Violent Crime Statistics

Violent crime rates in Saks are noted to be 12% higher than the national average (according to AreaVibes). This statistic indicates a need for residents to be aware of their surroundings and take standard safety precautions. The murder rate in Saks is approximately 0.1408 per 1,000 residents in a typical year (according to CrimeGrade.org).

The chance of being a victim of murder can range from 1 in 4,814 in southeastern neighborhoods to 1 in 7,888 in northwestern areas (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). While these numbers may seem concerning, they are specific to the community and should be considered within the broader context of local crime patterns and safety initiatives.

Property Crime and Safety Perceptions

Property crime in Saks is reported at 10.89 per 1,000 residents annually, which is slightly lower than the national average (according to CrimeGrade.org). The community’s overall crime safety grade is a B, suggesting that it is safer than a significant portion of U.S. cities (according to DoorProfit). This grade indicates that while crime exists, it is not disproportionately high compared to many other areas.

Resident perceptions of safety can vary, with generally safer areas identified in the northwest and central parts of the city. The chance of being a victim of property crime can range from 1 in 62 in the southeast to 1 in 118 in the central neighborhoods (as reported by CrimeGrade.org). These localized differences highlight the importance of choosing a neighborhood carefully when considering a move to Saks.

Cost of Living and Housing in Saks

The cost of living in Saks, Alabama, is generally considered to be more affordable than the national average. While specific cost-of-living data for Saks itself is not readily available, Alabama as a state ranks favorably for affordability. The average cost of living in Alabama is approximately 1.23 times less expensive than the U.S. average (according to SoFi). This affordability extends to various aspects of daily life, including housing, utilities, and groceries.

Housing costs in Saks present a notable aspect of its affordability. The median home value in Saks was approximately $116,400 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA), which is significantly lower than the national median home value. The homeownership rate in Saks is around 72.2%, indicating a strong preference for homeownership within the community (as reported by Data USA).

Median Home Prices and Rent

The median home price in Saks was around $116,400 in 2024, showing a slight increase from the previous year (as reported by Data USA). This median value is substantially lower than the national average, making homeownership more accessible for many. For those considering renting, the average rent in Saks is approximately $895 per month (as reported by Zillow and Trulia).

Rental prices have seen an increase over the past year, with a rise of $220 in the average rent (as reported by Zillow). Houses for rent in Saks can range from $750 to $1,350, with the average falling around $895. This provides a range of options for individuals and families seeking rental accommodations in the area.

Income and Affordability

The median household income in Saks was reported at $49,753 in 2024 (as reported by Data USA). This income level, combined with the lower cost of living and housing prices, suggests a reasonable level of affordability for residents. The poverty rate in Saks is approximately 20% (as reported by World Population Review).

The average commute time for residents of Saks is about 22.6 minutes, which is shorter than the national average commute time (as reported by Data USA). This shorter commute can contribute to a better work-life balance and potentially lower transportation costs for residents.

Job Market and Economy

Saks, Alabama, possesses a diverse economy with key employment sectors including manufacturing, healthcare, and retail trade. The region benefits from its proximity to the Anniston-Oxford-Jacksonville metropolitan area, which offers a broader range of employment opportunities. In 2023, manufacturing was the leading industry in Saks, employing a significant number of residents, followed closely by healthcare and social assistance, and then retail trade (as reported by Grokipedia).

Overall employment in Saks has seen growth, reflecting a positive trend in the local job market. The area’s economic roots are tied to the historical industrial development of Anniston, which has since evolved to include a more diversified base of manufacturing, services, and healthcare. This economic transition has created a more resilient job market for the community.

Major Employers and Industries

Manufacturing remains a cornerstone of Saks’ economy, with a focus on machinery and automotive components. Proximity to the Anniston Army Depot, a significant federal facility, also indirectly supports regional employment through its supply chains and related services (as reported by Grokipedia). Healthcare and social assistance are also major employers, catering to the needs of the community and the surrounding region.

Other significant employment sectors include retail trade and educational services, providing stable job anchors. Companies like Dollar General, Walgreens, and Saks Fifth Avenue Stores have a presence in or near Saks, contributing to the retail employment landscape (as reported by Indeed.com). The diverse industrial base provides a variety of job opportunities for residents.

Unemployment and Salary Information

The unemployment rate in Alabama was at 2.7% as of February 2026 (as reported by USAFacts and Macrotrends). This rate is lower than the national average, indicating a relatively healthy job market within the state. While specific unemployment data for Saks is not detailed, the state’s figures suggest a stable employment environment.

The average annual salary in Saks is approximately $47,049 as of April 2026 (as reported by ZipRecruiter). Salaries can range from $36,000 to $53,897, depending on occupation and experience. The average hourly pay for related jobs in Alabama can be around $31.43 (as reported by ZipRecruiter).

Climate and Environment

Saks, Alabama, experiences a climate characterized by long, hot, and muggy summers, and short, cold, and wet winters. The weather throughout the year is generally partly cloudy. Temperatures typically fluctuate between 34°F and 89°F, with rare occurrences of temperatures dropping below 20°F or exceeding 95°F (as reported by WeatherSpark.com).

The community observes distinct seasonal patterns in temperature and precipitation. The hot season generally spans from late May to late September, with average daily high temperatures exceeding 82°F. Conversely, the cool season typically runs from late November to late February, with daily high temperatures falling below 60°F.

Temperature and Rainfall Averages

The hottest month in Saks is typically July, with average high temperatures around 89°F and lows of 70°F. January is the coldest month, with average low temperatures around 35°F and highs of 53°F (as reported by WeatherSpark.com). These temperature ranges are typical for a humid subtropical climate.

Rainfall is distributed throughout the year, with the most significant precipitation occurring in March, averaging around 5.5 inches. August typically sees the least amount of rain, with an average of about 2.8 inches (as reported by AreaVibes and WeatherSpark.com). The chance of a wet day is higher during the wetter season, which lasts from mid-March to late August.

Air Quality and Environmental Factors

The air quality in Saks is noted to be slightly worse than the national average, with the air quality index being 2% higher than the U.S. standard (as reported by AreaVibes). Similarly, the pollution index is also higher, at 100% worse than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes). These figures suggest that environmental quality may be a consideration for some residents.

While specific environmental initiatives for Saks are not detailed, the broader region’s focus on maintaining natural resources is a general trend. Residents may find opportunities to engage with local conservation efforts or enjoy the natural surroundings that characterize much of Alabama.

Education in Saks

Saks, Alabama, is served by the Calhoun County School System, which provides educational opportunities for students from elementary through high school. The school district is ranked moderately within the state, with Saks High School and Saks Elementary School being key institutions within the community.

Saks High School offers education for grades 7-12 and has a student-teacher ratio of approximately 16:1. The school’s performance in state rankings has varied, and proficiency scores in subjects like math and reading are noted to be below state averages in some reports (as reported by Niche and SchoolDigger). However, the school does demonstrate strong graduation rates, often exceeding the state average.

Saks Elementary School Performance

Saks Elementary School serves students from pre-kindergarten through 6th grade. It has an enrollment of around 616 students with a student-teacher ratio of 15:1 (as reported by Niche). Like the high school, the elementary school’s academic performance, particularly in math and reading proficiency, has been ranked in the bottom 50% of Alabama schools (as reported by Niche).

Despite lower proficiency scores in certain academic areas, the school’s diversity score is comparable to the state average, reflecting a varied student body. A significant percentage of students are eligible for free or reduced-price lunch, indicating socioeconomic challenges within the student population.

Saks High School Rankings and Programs

Saks High School is recognized for its diversity and has been ranked among the top public high schools in Alabama for diversity (as reported by Niche). The school also has a strong student-teacher ratio, contributing to a potentially more personalized learning environment. While academic test scores may not always meet state averages, the school maintains a high graduation rate, often in the top 30% in Alabama (as reported by Niche and SchoolDigger).

The school offers various programs and extracurricular activities, with high participation rates in girls’ and boys’ athletics. Students considering higher education often look towards institutions like Jacksonville State University and the University of Alabama system (as reported by Homes.com).

Demographics of Saks

Saks, Alabama, is a community with a population of approximately 10,723 residents as of 2026, showing a slight decline from previous years but an increase since the 2020 census (as reported by World Population Review and Data USA). The population is characterized by a significant presence of White and Black or African American residents, with smaller proportions of Hispanic, Asian, and multiracial individuals.

The median age in Saks is around 40.5 years, with a slightly higher proportion of females to males in some demographic reports. The community is largely comprised of U.S. citizens, with a high percentage of households speaking only English at home.

Racial and Ethnic Composition

The racial makeup of Saks includes approximately 55.6% White residents and 30.77% Black or African American residents (as reported by World Population Review). Hispanic or Latino individuals constitute about 7.0% of the population, with Asian and Multiracial populations making up smaller percentages (as reported by Census Reporter and World Population Review). This composition makes Saks more racially diverse than Alabama overall.

Compared to the 2020 census, there have been shifts in the demographic proportions. The Black or African American population has seen an estimated growth of 39.2%, increasing its share of the total population. Conversely, the White population’s share has decreased since 2020.

Age, Gender, and Household Characteristics

The median age in Saks is 40.5 years, with males having a median age of 40.1 and females 42.3 years (as reported by World Population Review). In terms of gender distribution, there are approximately 95.9 males for every 100 females (as reported by World Population Review).

The homeownership rate in Saks is 72.2%, which is higher than the national average (as reported by Data USA). The average household size is around 2.51 people, and the average family size is slightly larger at 2.99. A notable percentage of households, about 26.8%, include children under the age of 18 (as reported by Wikipedia).

Pros and Cons of Living in Saks

Living in Saks, Alabama, offers a blend of affordability and community character, set within a region with economic opportunities. The lower cost of living and housing prices are significant advantages for those seeking to stretch their budget. The community’s proximity to Anniston also provides access to more extensive services and employment options.

However, potential drawbacks include lower-than-average school performance in some areas and environmental factors like air quality. Crime rates, while comparable to national averages, do show variations by neighborhood, requiring careful consideration of specific locations within Saks. The job market, while growing, may not offer the same breadth of high-paying opportunities as larger metropolitan areas.

Advantages of Saks Living

One of the primary advantages of living in Saks is its affordability. The median home price is substantially lower than the national average, and rental costs are also relatively modest. This financial accessibility makes it an attractive option for individuals and families looking to own a home or find reasonably priced rental accommodation.

The community also benefits from a relatively short average commute time of 22.6 minutes (as reported by Data USA), which can improve daily life and reduce transportation expenses. Furthermore, Saks’ demographic diversity adds a rich cultural dimension to the community, fostering a unique social environment.

Potential Challenges and Considerations

While Saks offers affordability, the educational system presents a mixed picture, with some schools ranking below state averages in academic proficiency (as reported by Niche and SchoolDigger). Residents concerned about environmental quality may also note that air quality and pollution levels are reported to be higher than national averages (as reported by AreaVibes).

Crime rates, particularly violent crime, are noted to be higher than the national average (as reported by AreaVibes), and safety can vary significantly by neighborhood. While the overall job market is growing, the average salary may be lower compared to larger urban centers, which could be a factor for those seeking high-earning potential.