Thinking about moving to Alabama? You’re not alone. Every year, more people choose Alabama for its affordable cost of living, lower taxes, and slower pace of life. But with so many great cities and towns, how do you decide where to live? Today we’re exploring the best cities in Alabama and what makes them stand out.
Some areas are growing fast, while others maintain their small-town charm. Whether you want a walkable downtown, beach access, or spacious homes with land, Alabama has something for everyone.
Why More People Are Moving to Alabama
Alabama has long been a hidden gem, but the secret is out. More families, retirees, and remote workers are leaving high-cost states and heading south for a better quality of life.
Here’s why Alabama is drawing so much attention:
- Affordable Housing – Home prices are much lower than in Florida or Texas.
- Lower Taxes – Alabama has some of the lowest property taxes in the country.
- Great Weather – Mild winters and long summers make outdoor living easy.
- Coastal Access – The Gulf Coast offers stunning beaches without Florida’s crowds.
- Strong Job Market – Growing industries in tech, healthcare, and manufacturing.
With all these benefits, cities across Alabama are expanding. But each one offers a unique lifestyle. Let’s break down the best cities in Alabama to help you find the right fit.
Best Cities in Alabama: Fairhope – A Waterfront Town with Small-Town Charm
Fairhope is often ranked as one of the best cities in Alabama, and for good reason. It has a charming downtown, great restaurants, and stunning views of Mobile Bay. The town is full of boutique shops, coffee spots, and art galleries, giving it a storybook feel.
- Walkable downtown with local shops and dining
- Excellent schools and a strong sense of community
- Beautiful bayfront parks and walking trails
Fairhope’s home values have risen consistently, making it a smart investment. But keep in mind, it’s one of the pricier areas in Baldwin County.
Best Cities in Alabama: Daphne – Affordable Homes & Great Schools
Daphne is Fairhope’s more affordable neighbor. It offers a small-town feel with a range of housing options. This city is perfect for families looking for top-rated schools, an easy commute to Mobile, and a strong community.
- Lower home prices compared to Fairhope
- Highly rated schools and family-friendly neighborhoods
- Easy access to I-10 for commuting
Lake Forest is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Daphne, offering golf courses, pools, and homes under $300,000. If you’re looking for new construction, The Reserve at Daphne is a great option.
Best Cities in Alabama: Foley – Growing Fast with Affordable Homes
Foley is one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama, thanks to its affordable housing and close proximity to Gulf Shores. Home prices here are lower than in Fairhope or Daphne, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious buyers.
- Affordable new construction homes
- Short drive to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach
- Home to OWA Parks & Resort with entertainment and dining
Neighborhoods like Robert’s Cove and Primland offer modern homes at reasonable prices, and with Foley’s continued growth, home values are expected to rise.
Best Cities in Alabama: Gulf Shores – Beachfront Living Without Florida Prices
Dreaming of living near the beach? Gulf Shores is one of the best cities in Alabama for a coastal lifestyle. This town has stunning white-sand beaches, great seafood, and a laid-back vibe.
- Direct beach access with breathtaking Gulf views
- Thriving short-term rental market for investors
- Strong community events and outdoor activities
Gulf Shores is a top choice for vacation home buyers, but keep in mind that insurance costs are higher due to hurricane risk.
Best Cities in Alabama: Spanish Fort – Spacious Homes & Top Schools
Spanish Fort offers larger homes with more land, making it perfect for families. It’s right off I-10, offering an easy commute to Mobile.
- Excellent schools with top-rated programs
- Larger lots compared to nearby cities
- Close to shopping at Eastern Shore Centre
Popular neighborhoods include Stonebridge and Rayne Plantation, both offering beautiful homes with great amenities.
Best Cities in Alabama: Orange Beach – A Laid-Back Coastal Town
If you love the water, Orange Beach is one of the best places to live in Alabama. With boating, fishing, and waterfront dining, it’s a paradise for those who enjoy the outdoors.
- Access to top marinas and boat slips
- Less crowded than Gulf Shores
- Great restaurants and a strong tourism economy
Waterfront homes are in high demand, so prices are higher than in nearby areas.
Best Cities in Alabama: Huntsville – Alabama’s Tech & Innovation Hub
Huntsville is one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama, known for its booming tech, aerospace, and defense industries.
- High-paying jobs in technology and engineering
- Strong public schools and universities
- Affordable compared to other tech hubs
Huntsville is great for young professionals, but it lacks the Southern charm of Alabama’s coastal cities.
Best Cities in Alabama: Birmingham – Big-City Perks Without the Hassle
Birmingham is Alabama’s largest city, offering urban living with historic neighborhoods, museums, and a vibrant food scene.
- Diverse job opportunities in healthcare, finance, and education
- Great restaurants and entertainment
- Surrounding suburbs offer top schools
Some areas have higher crime rates, so choosing the right neighborhood is important. Suburbs like Hoover and Vestavia Hills are great for families.
Which Alabama City Is Right for You?
Alabama offers a mix of small-town charm, modern conveniences, and coastal living. Whether you’re looking for a walkable downtown, easy beach access, or a growing job market, there’s a perfect place for you.
- Love the beach? Consider Gulf Shores or Orange Beach.
- Want a charming, walkable downtown? Fairhope is your best bet.
- Need affordability and family-friendly communities? Check out Daphne or Foley.
- Looking for job opportunities? Huntsville and Birmingham are top choices.
Thinking About Moving to Alabama? Let’s Talk!
Relocating can be overwhelming, but we’re here to help. As the #1 relocation team in Baldwin County, we know the best cities in Alabama and can guide you through every step of the process.
- Personalized home searches based on your needs
- Local market expertise to find the best deals
- Zero cost to home buyers – our services are completely free
