There’s a reason Baldwin County keeps showing up on national rankings, census reports, and “best places to move” lists. Over the last decade, the county has experienced a surge in population, new development, and community investment — the kind of steady, intentional expansion you normally see near major metros.

But Baldwin County is different. Its growth isn’t fueled by crowded city living or skyrocketing prices. It’s fueled by a lifestyle people actively seek out: affordable homes, strong schools, water access, and communities that still feel neighborhood-focused even as they expand.

This blog breaks down what’s behind Baldwin County growth, why families and retirees are choosing it, and what you can expect as the region continues to evolve through 2026.

1. Population Trends: Who’s Moving Here and Why It’s Not Slowing Down

Baldwin County has been one of Alabama’s fastest-growing counties for years, and the trend hasn’t just continued, it’s accelerated. People from across the country are relocating here, especially from high-cost, high-density states.

What’s driving the population increase?

1. More remote workers seeking space and affordability
2. Families relocating for schools and community environment
3. Retirees choosing coastal living with lower cost of living
4. People escaping dense metro areas for a slower pace
5. Buyers priced out of neighboring states like Florida

The appeal isn’t temporary. Baldwin County growth is rooted in long-term livability, not short-term trends.

Where the growth is concentrated:

1. Spanish Fort — master-planned communities, excellent schools
2. Daphne — balanced suburban living with central convenience
3. Fairhope — lifestyle-driven growth with scenic appeal
4. Foley — rapid new construction + retail expansion
5. Gulf Shores — tourism meets full-time coastal living
6. Robertsdale / Loxley / Summerdale — large lots and lower prices attracting more families

Each city is growing for slightly different reasons, but together they create a county experiencing some of the strongest population increases in the South.

2. Infrastructure + New Developments: How the County Is Preparing for the Future

One of the most visible signs of Baldwin County growth is the pace of development — not just in homes, but in infrastructure. Growth here isn’t happening haphazardly. It’s supported by long-term planning and investment.

Road expansions and traffic improvements

Major roadways across the county are widening to reduce congestion and accommodate higher traffic volumes:

1. Additional lanes
2. Improved intersections
3. Better traffic flow near schools and shopping centers
4. Updated signals

These upgrades are noticeable in Daphne, Foley, and Spanish Fort in particular.

Community amenities

New parks, athletic complexes, walking trails, and public spaces are popping up county-wide. These aren’t basic fields — these are well-maintained, thoughtfully designed community centers that anchor neighborhoods.

Healthcare expansion

Hospitals and clinics have expanded across Spanish Fort, Daphne, Fairhope, and Foley. Access to specialists and emergency care continues to grow with the population.

Neighborhood and commercial development

1. New construction subdivisions
2. Grocery chains and retailers
3. Restaurants + cafés
4. Entertainment districts
5. Office and medical buildings

The result is a county that scales with its population, not one that gets overwhelmed by it.

3. Education: A Growing School System With Strong Performance

Families play a huge role in Baldwin County growth, and schools are one of the biggest reasons they choose the area.

Baldwin County schools are expanding quickly

As new neighborhoods open, the county is building new schools and upgrading existing ones. Entire campuses have been added in the last few years, along with expansions to keep up with demand.

Why families like the school system:

1. Strong academic performance
2. Modern facilities
3. Competitive sports programs
4. Arts, robotics, and advanced coursework
5. Strong community support and funding
6. A collaborative environment between teachers, parents, and administrators

Many families moving from larger states are surprised by the quality and accessibility of the schools here — especially because excellent schools don’t require million-dollar budgets.

4. Lifestyle: Water, Space, Community — and Actual Peace of Mind

One of the biggest drivers of Baldwin County growth isn’t numbers or development — it’s lifestyle.

Many people move here because they want something simpler and more grounded than big-city life.

Proximity to water drives demand

Baldwin County has:

1. Mobile Bay
2. Gulf Coast beaches
3. Rivers, inlets, and canals
4. Waterfront dining
5. Fishing, boating, and kayaking

Being this close to the water without the inflated cost of states like Florida draws a steadily increasing number of buyers.

Outdoor-centered living

Warm weather, scenic parks, long biking trails, and weekly events make lifestyle one of the county’s strongest selling points.

A slower, less stressful pace

Even as the area grows, there’s a level of calmness that stays intact:

1. Traffic is manageable
2. Neighborhoods are quiet
3. Community feels genuine
4. There’s time and space to breathe

Lower cost of living

Compared to major states where many residents relocate from, Baldwin County offers:

1. Lower home prices
2. Lower property taxes
3. Lower insurance (inland areas)
4. Lower overall expenses

This combination of affordability and coastal lifestyle is extremely rare, and it’s a big reason growth keeps climbing.

5. Why Both Retirees and Families Choose Baldwin County

The county isn’t dominated by one type of buyer. Baldwin County growth is a blend of families, retirees, investors, and remote workers,  each drawn by different strengths.

Why families move here:

1. Strong schools
2. Affordable, spacious homes
3. Safe neighborhoods
4. Easy access to activities and parks
5. A community-oriented environment

Why retirees move here:

1. Milder winters
2. Coastal lifestyle without Florida pricing
3. Abundance of golf courses and outdoor activities
4. Growing healthcare network
5. Slower pace of living
6. Vibrant local communities

Why remote workers move here:

1. Low cost of living paired with remote salaries
2. Better work-life balance
3. Homes with offices + more space
4. High-speed internet widely available
5. Access to both nature and amenities

The county doesn’t cater to one demographic, it attracts a little of everything, which is a healthy sign for future growth and stability.

6. Baldwin County Growth Through 2026: What’s Ahead

Growth isn’t slowing down, the projections through 2026 reflect continued expansion in population, infrastructure, and development.

Expect to see:

1. More new construction communities
2. Additional lanes and road improvements
3. Continued school expansions
4. More healthcare facilities
5. Increased retail + dining options
6. Rising interest from retirees and remote workers
7. Ongoing investments into parks + community amenities

What this means for buyers

If you’re considering relocating, now is a strategic time:

1. New construction incentives are available
2. Prices are still competitive compared to other coastal markets
3. Infrastructure improvements will continue to increase convenience
4. The lifestyle is stable, safe, and highly desirable

The county is growing fast, but intentionally, which makes it one of the strongest emerging regions in the South.

Looking for Your Place in Baldwin County?

Choosing the right city depends on your lifestyle, budget, and priorities, whether that’s schools, commute time, shopping, or proximity to the water.

We make the search simple.

Explore homes by city and get a clearer view of what life looks like in:

1. Spanish Fort
2. Daphne
3. Fairhope
4. Foley
5. Gulf Shores
6. Robertsdale / Loxley / Summerdale

Start exploring homes by city.

We’ll help you get a sense of each area, compare neighborhoods, and find the place that feels right for you.