Best Cities To Live In Alabama (2024 Guide)
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Last updated 03/20/2024 by
Benjamin LockeEdited by
Summary:
This article explores the best cities to live in Alabama, highlighting Montgomery, Birmingham, and Huntsville. Each city offers unique advantages, from affordable living and robust healthcare systems to educational excellence and economic vitality.
Living in Alabama presents a distinctive blend of deep historical roots, diverse cultural influences, and a rapidly evolving economy. From the Civil Rights Movement landmarks to the pioneering space exploration in Huntsville, Alabama is a state where the past and the future coexist harmoniously. It’s a place where Southern charm meets technological innovation, offering residents a unique lifestyle that balances traditional values with modern advancements. These three cities are the best places to live in Alabama.
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Best cities to live in Alabama
Montgomery
Montgomery snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average House Price | $185,000 |
| Cost of Living | 89.642 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 36.23 crimes per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Humid subtropical climate, with mild and rainy winters and hot, muggy summers |
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Montgomery healthcare
Montgomery, Alabama, not only serves as the state’s capital but also boasts a robust healthcare system, highlighted by leading hospitals.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Montgomery Hospitals | Montgomery is home to several notable hospitals, including Jackson Hospital and Clinic, which is rated high-performing in multiple adult procedures and conditions. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Baptist Medical Center South and Baptist Medical Center East are other significant healthcare facilities in Montgomery that offer a range of services and specialties. |
Montgomery walkability
While Montgomery’s overall Walk Score of 26 suggests a car-dependent city, its diverse neighborhoods offer pockets of higher walkability, reflecting a mix of pedestrian-friendly areas amidst its sprawling Southern charm.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Montgomery has an average Walk Score of 26, indicating that most errands require a car. |
| Neighborhood Variability | In Montgomery, Alabama, the walkability varies significantly across different neighborhoods. Notably, Old Cloverdale stands out as the most walkable neighborhood in Montgomery, with a Walk Score of 64, suggesting that some errands can be accomplished on foot. Other neighborhoods with higher walkability include Capitol Heights and the Garden District. These areas offer a more pedestrian-friendly environment compared to other parts of the city. |
Montgomery education
Montgomery, known for its rich historical significance, offers a diverse and evolving educational landscape, providing a range of learning opportunities from primary to higher education. The city’s commitment to educational excellence is evident in its variety of schools, colleges, and universities, catering to the academic and professional aspirations of its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Top High Schools | Montgomery boasts high-ranking schools like Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School, which is among the top in the state. |
| Overall School Performance | In Montgomery, Alabama, the public school system is enriched by several top-performing schools, including Loveless Academic Magnet Program High School, Brewbaker Tech Magnet High School, and Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, all known for their academic rigor and diverse educational programs. Additionally, Forest Avenue Elementary School and Bear Exploration Center stand out for their excellence in elementary education. |
Montgomery jobs and economy
Montgomery, Alabama, stands as a hub of economic growth and job opportunities, driven by its rich history and strategic position in the South. The city’s economy is diverse, encompassing sectors such as government, manufacturing, and technology, offering a range of career paths for its residents.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Montgomery has seen a job market increase of 1.1% over the last year. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Montgomery is $49,134 |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Montgomery over the next ten years is predicted to be 30.3%. |
| Recent Trends | Montgomery’s unemployment rate is currently at 2.5%, showing a stable job market. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The growing job market and economic opportunities in Montgomery are attracting new residents, contributing to the city’s development. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Montgomery is recognized for its diverse economy and business-friendly environment, with recent significant investments in various sectors. |
Birmingham
Birmingham, Alabama, known for its rich history in the civil rights movement and a strong industrial background, presents a unique blend of cultural heritage and modern urban development.
Birmingham snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $185,000 |
| Cost of Living | 91.159 Regional Price Parity (RPP for the US is 100, lower = lower than average, higher = higher than average) |
| Crime | 56.52 crimes per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Characterized by its long, warm summers and short, mild winters, typical of a humid subtropical climate, punctuated by a spectacular display of colors in the fall. |
Pro Tip
“Alabama is a state with one of the friendliest housing markets in the entire country. There’s plenty of inventory, average prices across most of the state are under $200,000, and rent is low in the major cities. The local cost of living matches those home prices. While it can be hard to find jobs in some parts of the state, most of the medium and large cities have good anchor employers that provide plenty of opportunities. Two industries have a lot of potential statewide: The aerospace industry, especially around Huntsville, and the auto industry throughout the state.. – Nick Valentino, VP of Market Operations at Bellhop
Birmingham healthcare
Birmingham, Alabama, renowned for its significant contributions to medical research and education, is home to some of the best healthcare facilities in the state.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Birmingham Hospitals | University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital is nationally ranked in multiple specialties, making it the top hospital in Birmingham and Alabama. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Other significant healthcare facilities in Birmingham include Princeton Baptist Medical Center and Ascension St. Vincent’s Birmingham, both offering a wide range of services and specialties. |
Birmingham walkability
Birmingham, Alabama, with its rich history and evolving urban landscape, offers a varied walkability experience across its neighborhoods, blending historic charm with modern city living.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Birmingham has an average Walk Score of 33, indicating a car-dependent city but with areas that are more walkable. |
| Neighborhood Variability | In Birmingham, the walkability varies by neighborhood. Notably, the 35203 ZIP code area is the most walkable, with a Walk Score of 77. Other areas like Highland Park also offer higher walkability, with a Walk Score of 65, making them more pedestrian-friendly compared to other parts of the city. |
Birmingham education
Birmingham, Alabama, boasts a diverse and high-performing educational landscape, with several top-rated high schools known for their academic excellence and comprehensive educational programs.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Top High Schools | Birmingham features outstanding high schools such as Mountain Brook High School, Homewood High School, and Vestavia Hills High School, all highly ranked for their academic achievements. |
| Overall School Performance | The public school system in Birmingham includes other notable high schools like Spain Park High School, Oak Mountain High School, and Hoover High School, all contributing to the city’s reputation for educational excellence. |
Birmingham jobs and economy
Birmingham, Alabama, is experiencing a dynamic period of economic growth characterized by a notable increase in job market growth, competitive average annual salaries, promising projections for future job growth, a stable unemployment rate, and an influx of new residents attracted by its diverse and expanding economy.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Job Market Growth | Birmingham has seen a job market increase of 2.0% over the last year. |
| Average Annual Salary | The average annual salary in Birmingham is $62,262. |
| Future Job Growth | Future job growth in Birmingham over the next ten years is predicted to be 29.2%. |
| Recent Trends | Birmingham’s unemployment rate is currently at 2.2%, indicating a stable job market. |
| Attractiveness to New Residents | The growing job market and economic opportunities in Birmingham are attracting new residents, contributing to the city’s development. |
| Overall Economic Strength | Birmingham is recognized for its diverse economy and business-friendly environment, with significant investments in various sectors. |
Huntsville
Huntsville, Alabama, known for its pivotal role in the U.S. space program and a rapidly growing tech industry, offers a unique combination of high-tech sophistication and Southern charm.
Huntsville snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Average Home Price | $387,900 |
| Cost of Living | 8% lower than the national average |
| Crime | 49.18 crimes per 1,000 residents (Average crime rate in the US is 23.48 per 1,000 residents (FBI, US Census)) |
| Weather | Enjoys a distinct four-season climate with hot summers and cool winters, and its position in the Tennessee Valley contributes to unique weather patterns, including occasional dramatic thunderstorms in spring and summer. |
Huntsville healthcare
Huntsville, Alabama, known for its technological advancements and space exploration, also excels in healthcare, with top-rated hospitals known for their comprehensive medical services and specialties.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Huntsville Hospitals | Huntsville Hospital is highly rated for its performance in multiple adult procedures and conditions, making it a leading healthcare facility in the region. |
| Other Notable Hospitals | Other significant healthcare facilities in Huntsville include Crestwood Medical Center and Huntsville Hospital for Women and Children, both offering a wide range of medical services and specialties. |
Huntsville walkability
Huntsville, Alabama, known for its space and technology sectors, offers a diverse walkability experience in its neighborhoods, combining its high-tech identity with accessible urban areas.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Overall Walkability | Huntsville has an average Walk Score of 24, indicating a city where most errands require a car, but with some walkable areas. |
| Neighborhood Variability | In Huntsville, walkability varies by neighborhood. Downtown Huntsville is the most walkable area with a Walk Score of 69. Other areas, like the 35805 ZIP code, also offer higher walkability, with scores indicating that some errands can be accomplished on foot. |
Huntsville education
Huntsville, Alabama, renowned for its strong emphasis on science and technology, also boasts a high-performing educational system, with several top-rated high schools known for their academic rigor and innovative programs.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Top High Schools | Huntsville features exceptional high schools such as New Century Technology High School, Huntsville High School, and James Clemens High School, all highly regarded for their academic achievements and specialized programs. |
| Overall School Performance | The public school system in Huntsville includes other notable high schools like Bob Jones High School and Virgil Grissom High School, contributing to the city’s reputation for educational excellence, particularly in STEM fields. |
Our methodology
In our methodology for identifying the best places to live in a state, we adopt a comprehensive and data-driven approach, relying on a variety of trusted and authoritative sources to compile our rankings. This process is outlined in the following steps:
Economic Data Analysis: We gather robust economic statistics from esteemed sources such as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and the Bureau of Economic Analysis. These agencies provide us with critical data on employment rates, income levels, job growth, and other economic indicators that contribute significantly to the quality of life in an area.
Employment Opportunities: In addition to general economic data, we specifically examine employment statistics from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This includes examining trends in job growth, the diversity of industries present, and the stability of employment in different regions, which are vital factors in determining a place's economic health and attractiveness.
Crime Rate Assessment: For understanding the safety and security of a place, we utilize data from the FBI’s Crime Data Explorer. This tool offers detailed insights into various types of crime rates, including both property and violent crimes, allowing us to assess the safety of a community comprehensively.
Housing Market Evaluation: Housing affordability and market trends are key components of our analysis. We primarily use Zillow.com for up-to-date and detailed information on house prices, trends in the housing market, and the overall affordability of living in different areas. When necessary, we also consult other reliable sources to validate and enrich our data.
Additional Quality of Life Factors: Recognizing that quality of life is influenced by a variety of factors, we also incorporate data from other official and reputable sources. This includes information on education quality, healthcare accessibility, environmental quality, transportation infrastructure, and recreational opportunities, among others.
Data Integration and Analysis: Upon gathering data from these diverse sources, we integrate and analyze it to provide a holistic view of each location. Our analysis involves not only looking at the raw numbers but also understanding the context and relative significance of each data point.
FAQ
What is the average cost of living in Montgomery, Alabama?
The cost of living in Montgomery is approximately 12% lower than the national average, making it an affordable option for residents. This includes housing, utilities, and transportation costs.
How does the healthcare system in Birmingham compare to other cities in Alabama?
Birmingham is renowned for its healthcare system, with top facilities like the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital. It offers a wide range of medical services and specialties, making it one of the best healthcare providers in the state.
What are the educational opportunities like in Huntsville?
Huntsville boasts a high-performing educational system, especially in STEM fields, with top-rated high schools like New Century Technology High School and Huntsville High School. The city’s focus on science and technology is reflected in its educational institutions.
What type of climate can be expected in Huntsville, and how does it affect lifestyle?
Huntsville experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot, muggy summers and short, very cold, and wet winters. This climate allows for a variety of outdoor and recreational activities year-round, though it might require adjustments for those not used to high humidity and temperatures.
How does the job market in Birmingham contribute to its attractiveness as a place to live?
Birmingham’s job market is experiencing dynamic growth, with a 2.0% increase in job market growth and an average annual salary of approximately $62,262. The city’s diverse economy and business-friendly environment are attracting new residents, contributing to its development, and making it an attractive place for professionals.
Key Takeaways
- Affordability in Montgomery: With an average home price of $185,000 and a cost of living 12% lower than the national average, Montgomery stands out as an affordable city in Alabama.
- Healthcare Excellence in Birmingham: Birmingham’s healthcare system, led by the University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital, is a major draw, offering top-tier medical services and specialties.
- STEM Education Focus in Huntsville: Huntsville’s emphasis on science and technology is reflected in its educational system, with high schools like New Century Technology High School leading in STEM education.
- Economic Growth in Birmingham: Birmingham’s job market growth of 2.0% and an average annual salary of approximately $59,789 highlight its dynamic economy and attractiveness to new residents.
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