A Guide to the Best Places to Live in Alabama: One of the most culturally rich and spectacular states in the United States, Alabama, is located in the southeastern region.
Bordered by Tennessee, Georgia, and Mississippi, it is also known as The Heart of Dixie with its warm southern hospitality and storied history as the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement. There’s a lot to love about the Yellowhammer State – Its picturesque architectural buildings, beautiful natural beauty, sandy beaches, mountains, diverse communities, low cost of living compared to other states, and unparalleled Southern hospitality.
| Population estimates, July 1, 2023, (V2023) | 5,108,468 |
| Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2018-2022 | $179,400 |
| Per capita income in past 12 months (in 2022 dollars), 2018-2022 | $33,344 |
| Median household income (in 2022 dollars), 2018-2022 | $59,609 |
Public and private schools, as well as accredited colleges and universities, offer excellent K-12 opportunities. As one of the most desirable states to do business in, it has a thriving business climate and workforce. Wondering which are the best places to live in Alabama? Look no further!
10 best places to live in Alabama State
Huntsville #1
Among the best cities in the United States, Huntsville offers a rich history, top air quality, and diverse attractions. Located on the Tennessee River in north Alabama, Huntsville is home to NASA’s propulsion laboratory and the Marshall Space Flight Center. With affordable housing, an excellent school system and one of the most prosperous job markets in the nation, the city offers an excellent quality of life.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Population Estimates, July 1, 2022, (V2022) | 221,933 |
| Median household income (in 2022 dollars), 2018-2022 | $67,874 |
| Average Childcare Cost to Income Ratio | 0.95% |
| Violent Crime Index | 43.2 |
| Nonviolent Crime Index | 66.9 |
| Crime Rate (per 1,000 residents) | 4.84 |
| Notable Features | U.S. Space & Rocket Center, planetariums, botanical gardens, historical sites |
| Climate | Average of 199 sunny days and 55 inches of rain per year |
| Breweries | Yes, many great breweries |
| Political Leanings | Conservative |
| Facilities Nearby | 11 hospitals and 43 schools |
| Nearby Suburbs | Madison, Athens, Meridianville |
The state has a thriving job market with many opportunities for professionals seeking employment in cutting edge fields such as aerospace engineering, information technology, and advanced manufacturing.
It is the home of more than 50 Fortune 500 companies. As the largest privately owned arts facility in the south, it offers a variety of entertainment opportunities.
There is something for everyone in Rocket City thanks to its diversity and far-reaching legacy, including its natural parks and preserves, space-related activities, magnificent museums, and art institutions. Over 60 parks are located within the city, many of which have playgrounds, tennis courts, and walking trails. The city also has more than 100 miles of paved greenways along streams and creeks where you can walk or bike.
Birmingham #2
A thriving city in Alabama, Birmingham has top-notch schools, vibrant neighborhoods for families, and a prosperous future for students and working professionals. The Magic City is known for its Southern hospitality and charm, and it’s one of the most affordable places to live in the country. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there’s a lot to discover in the city.
With new businesses moving into Birmingham and existing businesses expanding, the economy is booming. Several medical research institutions here draw employees from all over.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Population Estimates, July 1, 2022, (V2022) | 196,910 |
| Housing Cost to Income Ratio | 2.84% |
| Average Childcare Cost to Income Ratio | 0.79% |
| Violent Crime Index | 75.2 |
| Nonviolent Crime Index | 89 |
| Cost of Living Index | 75.7 |
| Notable Features | Birmingham Museum of Art, Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, Thinktank – Birmingham’s Science Museum, Royal Shakespeare Theater, Cadbury World, The Bear Grylls Adventure |
| Climate | Warm summers, wet season with upwards of 56 inches of rain per year |
| Restaurants | Over 120 dog-friendly restaurants |
| Political Leanings | Moderately liberal |
| Facilities Nearby | 21 hospitals and 51 schools |
| Nearby Suburbs | Homewood, Indian Springs Village, Hoover |
You can get your fill of entertainment, shopping and fine dining, but you can also have a blast in the park with your family and friends. The region is highly desirable as a place to live and work, which has further contributed to the city’s strong economic development.
What’s More Birmingham is centrally located between Nashville and Atlanta — two hot spots in the Southeast — which means it’s easy to get to anything you need or want without having to travel too far.
Montgomery #3
Through its many historical landmarks and attractions, Montgomery is known for its rich history and Southern culture. Its metropolitan area is often called “The Corridor” because it includes Montgomery and its suburbs. It is home to numerous entertainment and recreational events, including the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, and Anniston Museum of Natural History.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Population Estimates, July 1, 2022, (V2022) | 196,910 |
| Housing Cost to Income Ratio | 1.81% |
| Median Home Value | $141,900 |
| Median Rent | $1,026 |
| Average Childcare Cost to Income Ratio | 0.83% |
| Violent Crime Index | 33.9 |
| Nonviolent Crime Index | 61.7 |
| Cost of Living Index | 75.8 |
| Notable Features | Zoo, museums, riverside parks, Civil Rights Memorial, Rosa Parks Museum, Legacy Museum |
| Climate | Warm, wet, and sunny; 51 inches of rain and 211 sunny days expected per year |
| Restaurants | Local restaurants offering southern food, many dog-friendly |
| Political Leanings | Moderately liberal |
| Facilities Nearby | 14 hospitals |
| Nearby Suburbs | Clubview Heights, Bellevue/Tuckahoe Heights, Turkeytown/Anderson |
A vibrant music scene exists in the city, with many local bands performing at various venues. Residents are also able to partake in plenty of outdoor activities year-round in Montgomery, such as kayaking on Lake Martin or hiking on trails at Oak Mountain State Park. As one of the state’s most business-friendly cities, Montgomery is an ideal location for expanding and relocating businesses.
Tuscaloosa #4
As a thriving city known for its excellent schools and low crime rate, Tuscaloosa is an ideal place to live with your family. Alabama’s largest city, Tuscaloosa, is located along the Black Warrior River. Known as the “City of Festivals” since there are a lot of festivals here every year, like ArtFest, Taste of Tuscaloosa, and JazzFest.
You’ll find well-preserved architecture, parks and historical landmarks, public spaces like walking and jogging trails, and green spaces. This unique combination of activities, events, and attractions makes Tuscaloosa a fascinating place to live, work, and visit.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Population Estimates, July 1, 2022, (V2022) | 236,780 |
| Housing Cost to Income Ratio | 2.76% |
| Median Home Value | $228,300 |
| Median Rent | $980 |
| Average Childcare Cost to Income Ratio | 0.82% |
| Violent Crime Index | 29.9 |
| Nonviolent Crime Index | 59.7 |
| Cost of Living Index | 87.9 |
| Notable Features | Alabama Museum of Natural History, Dinah Washington Cultural Arts Center, Lake Tuscaloosa (boating, picnicking, hiking) |
| Climate | Warm and wet; up to 54 inches of rain and 210 sunny days annually |
| Restaurants | 45 restaurants welcoming dogs |
| Facilities Nearby | 16 hospitals and 24 schools |
| Nearby Suburbs | Patton Place, Riverview, Lake Crest |
In addition, the city is known for its vibrant college sports culture, being home to both the University of Alabama and Stillman College.
As the industrial center of west-central Alabama, it’s home to manufacturing (predominantly automotive), healthcare, and education. In addition, the city is well-connected with an extensive public transportation system and easy access to highways, airports, and other nearby cities. Therefore, people can commute to work or explore the city. With this infrastructure, businesses can ship and receive their products and services quickly and efficiently, which adds to the city’s economy.
Both residents and tourists can indulge in a variety of entertainment options, from museums and art galleries to theaters and concert venues.
Madison #5
With a strong sense of friends-family culture, Madison offers many modern amenities, a strong education system, and a population of professionals. Located on three hills, Madison is known as “The City of Three Hills.” One of the most prominent features in Madison’s downtown area is an impressive dome near the top of the hill where the city is located. Over 1.6 million people live in the city, making it one of the biggest in the state and the fourteenth largest in the nation.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Population Estimates, July 1, 2022, (V2022) | 403,565 |
| Median value of owner-occupied housing units, 2018-2022 | $242,900 |
| Median Home Value | $327,100 |
| Median Rent | $1,201 |
High-quality schools in the city and many well-educated professionals offer warm southern hospitality to their families. Over 600 acres of parks and green spaces provide a safe, natural outlet for families to enjoy the outdoors. The city has a charming downtown, exemplary schools, and numerous professionals. Several parks throughout the city allow residents to relax with their families or enjoy outdoor time.
Whether you are an aspiring business owner or a family looking for a new community, Madison’s center is an excellent choice for you. With its welcoming atmosphere and proximity to downtown Huntsville, Madison’s center is a great place to call home.
Vestavia Hills #6
One of the fastest-growing business communities in Alabama, Vestavia Hills, offers a high-quality school system with a thriving community of well-educated professionals. A picturesque, affluent community in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains located in Birmingham’s suburbs, Vestavia Hills, exemplifies southern hospitality. Despite its high cost of living, the state has many advantages.
The weather is pleasant, taxes are high, and public services are excellent. With a top-performing school district, restaurants, retail shops, and cultural attractions, this is the premier place for families and corporate professionals to thrive.
The city’s motto, “A great place to live“, reflects its appeal as an upscale community with tree-lined streets and safe neighbourhoods. So if you’re a retiree who likes outdoor activities like golfing, boating on Lake Logan Martin, or just relaxing in one of its many parks or trails, retirement communities in this area are your best bet. During daylight hours, the park is also open to the public, offering several amenities like playgrounds, picnic shelters, and tennis courts for members to use.
What’s More
Residents and visitors alike can be assured of a safe, secure and well-maintained environment in this highly rated neighbourhood. A 5 mile drive takes you to Birmingham, 140 miles to Nashville, and 188 miles to Memphis.
Hoover #7
Recognized for its award-winning school system, premier retail facilities, and its recreational facilities, Hoover is one of the top 100 cities to live in the United States. A suburb about 20 miles northwest of Birmingham, Hoover started out as an industrial community but now has a thriving retail sector. Numerous restaurants, hotels, and office buildings line the Interstate highways.
The neighborhoods here are some of the most beautiful in Alabama. One of the more favoured neighbourhoods, Lake Cyrus, features homes with large porches, perfect for the warm Alabama afternoons. With tree-lined streets and parks all around, the city is known for its natural beauty. Moss Rock Preserve is a 350-acre nature reserve with trails, streams and a waterfall.
The Riverchase Galleria mall, one of the largest in the state, includes more than 150 stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues. This transition was spurred by the development of new residential communities and the expansion of the city limits, which allowed for more development.
The area’s proximity to major highways, access to public transportation, and a low cost of living have also been factors in its growth and popularity.
What’s more
Since 2006, top magazines have ranked and awarded Hoover as the best city to live in Alabama.
Mountain Brook #8
Credited as one of the wealthiest suburbs in Alabama, Mountain Brook offers a suburban feel and a low crime rate, making it a safe haven for families to live and thrive. The mountain town of Mountain Brook, located in North-central Alabama, approximately 300 miles north of the Gulf of Mexico, boasts an excellent education system that offers high school programs. The city is home to many highly-rated public and private schools, including several magnet schools offering students specialized academic instruction and myriad extracurricular activities.
This allows students to receive a top-notch education tailored to their individual needs. In addition, several excellent universities are located in Mountain Brook, including the University of Alabama at Birmingham and Birmingham-Southern College. There is also a sense of belonging to the Mountain Brook community and a low crime rate. You’ll be close to shopping, restaurants, and entertainment.
The Mountain Brook Shopping Center includes a variety of stores and restaurants, and the nearby Homewood Library is a peaceful place to relax and read.
The city’s rolling hills, lush forests and water bodies make it an ideal location for outdoor activities like hiking, golfing and horseback riding. Recreation centers in the city feature indoor swimming pools, fitness centers, and meeting rooms for community groups. Parks here are more suitable for a family outing or a night out with friends – including playgrounds (including swings) and picnic areas, as well as walks through wooded areas where you can admire nature in all its splendour.
What’s More
Its most famous landmark is the Old Mill on the Shades Creek bank in Jemison Park. Over the years, this historic site has become a popular spot for jogging, bird watching, and picnics.
Mobile #9
With a picturesque landscape, a rich history, delectable cuisine, and a thriving community of friendly residents, Mobile is known as one of the wealthiest suburbs in Alabama. Located on Alabama’s Gulf Coast, Mobile is home to unique museums, breathtaking architecture and mouth-watering cuisine, making it an exciting destination for residents and tourists.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Housing Cost to Income Ratio | 2.62% |
| Average Childcare Cost to Income Ratio | 1.03% |
| Violent Crime Index | 30.8 |
| Nonviolent Crime Index | 67.5 |
| Cost of Living Index | 82.9 |
| Notable Features | Boating, kayaking, outdoor breweries, dog parks, Mobile Carnival Museum (Mardi Gras) |
| Climate | Wet; average annual rainfall of 66 inches |
| Political Leanings | Conservative |
| Facilities Nearby | 14 hospitals and 89 schools |
| Nearby Suburbs | Fairhope, Daphne, Spanish Fort |
Residents are friendly and welcoming. The climate is mild and subtropical, making it a delightful place to live all year round. It is also home to Battleship Memorial Park, a fascinating reminder of the city’s maritime history. The city offers an array of amenities and things to do. There are many great places to eat. Numerous parks, beaches, outdoor activities, and vibrant culture and nightlife.
It offers opportunities to meet new people and create long-lasting relationships with them. Consequently, it is an ideal place to live and work. The city has a vibrant music scene, with eclectic live music venues and festivals throughout the year.
Dothan #10
Recognized as a progressive city in Alabama, Dothan offers affordable housing, a low property tax rate and a mild winter climate. Located in Southeast Alabama, Dothan is a picturesque, vibrant small city with numerous outdoor activities. It’s one of the best places to live once you retire in Alabama.
| Quick Facts | Value |
|---|---|
| Housing Cost to Income Ratio | 2.35% |
| Average Childcare Cost to Income Ratio | 0.81% |
| Violent Crime Index | 37.2 |
| Nonviolent Crime Index | 52.8 |
| Cost of Living Index | 80.2 |
| Notable Features | Forever Wild Trails, Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, variety of cuisine options |
| Climate | 55 inches of rain and 227 sunny days per year |
| Restaurants | Barbecue, Mexican, pizza, various cuisine options |
| Political Leanings | Moderately conservative |
| Facilities Nearby | 14 hospitals |
| Nearby Suburbs | Whispering Pines, Green Acres, Brentwood |
Residents can access numerous outdoor activities and excellent schools with county schools nearby. The city has multiple advantages, making it an excellent place to live and work. The city also has a booming job market and a low cost of living. This makes it a suitable place for young professionals who are just starting out in their careers.
With its mild winter climate, affordable housing, low property taxes, and a wide variety of public services, like health care, education, shopping, and cultural events, it’s the perfect place to live. Residents also enjoy fishing, swimming, hiking, mountain biking, golfing and wildlife attractions. The city is strategically located, has easy highway and rail access, and its residents have a strong work ethic.
In addition, the city’s diversified economy with first-rate educational institutions and a pro-business tax structure contribute to its reputation as an incredible place to live.
What’s More
Dothan is approximately 30 miles north of the Florida state line and 50 miles west of Montgomery.
FAQ
What is Alabama famous for?
Known for its southern hospitality, Alabama was the birthplace of the Civil Rights Movement. The state with the most famous musicians is Muscle Shoals, where legends such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and Jimmy Buffett originated. While living in Alabama, Keith Urban won a Grammy Award.
What kind of place is Alabama?
It truly feels like ‘Sweet Home Alabama’ here!
A lush and verdant landscape, rich history and culture, picturesque natural surroundings, a thriving industry, and fine dining options are the hallmarks of Alabama’s landscape. Beautiful white-sand beaches and majestic mountains are just some of the amenities that residents enjoy.
Is Alabama rich or poor?
With 14.9% of Alabamians living below the federal poverty threshold, Alabama ranks sixth among the poorest states in the nation.