10 Largest Cities in Alabama

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Alabama

Alabama is situated in the southeastern region of the United States. Alabama is home to some of the most beautiful natural scenery. From the white sand beaches of the Gulf Coast to the lush forests of the Appalachian Mountains, Alabama offers a wide variety of landscapes to explore. Alabama is also a great place to live and work. With its low cost of living and diverse economy, Alabama offers opportunities for everyone from recent college graduates to experienced professionals. The state is home to major industries such as agriculture, automotive manufacturing, and aerospace engineering. The state’s economy is diverse, with a strong focus on manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. As a result, Alabama is an attractive option for businesses and individual employees.

Are you thinking of moving to Alabama? If so, you’ll want to know about the largest cities in the state. Each city has its unique charms and attractions that appeal to different people. Whether you’re looking for big-city excitement or a quaint small-town atmosphere, you’ll find what you’re looking for in one of these ten metro areas. So, which one is right for you?

1. Huntsville

Huntsville is a beautiful city located in the heart of Alabama. As the largest city in Alabama, Huntsville is a hub of activity, with a diverse population and a strong economy. With its central location and variety of job opportunities, Huntsville is an attractive option for those seeking employment. The city’s schools are highly rated, and its economy is strong. Huntsville is a safe and welcoming community. In addition to its job prospects, Huntsville also offers a beautiful setting, with several parks and recreation areas. The city is also home to the Huntsville Museum of Art, which houses a collection of paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Whether you’re looking for a job or just enjoy exploring new places, Huntsville has something to offer everyone.

Upsides:

  • Diverse Population
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Rich in history and culture

Downsides:

  • Limited Public Transportation
  • Climate Conditions are Extreme
  • High Crime Rate
  • Infrastructure Updates due to Growing Population

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 207,921
  • Median Value of Home – $273,648
  • Median Rent – $1,105
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 86.0
  • Employability Rate – 98
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 42.48 (7.72 Violent and 34.76 Property)
  • U.S. Army/Redstone Arsenal, Huntsville Hospital system, and Boeing Company are some of the top employers in the state.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best Neighborhoods in Huntsville

Hampton Cove, Five Points, Twickenham

2. Birmingham

Birmingham, Alabama, has a rich history and a bright future. The city has a vibrant nightlife, a thriving arts scene, and a variety of outdoor recreational activities. There are also plenty of parks and green spaces to enjoy. In recent years, Birmingham’s employability has also been on the rise. Birmingham is now home to many multinational corporations thanks to its thriving economy and highly educated workforce. As a result, the city is attracting more and more talented workers from all over the world. In addition to its beauty and employability, Birmingham is also known for its friendly residents and welcoming atmosphere. Birmingham is an affordable place to live and operate a business. The cost of living in the city is below the national average, and the city offers a variety of tax incentives for businesses. The city is highly accessible, with an international airport and a reliable public transportation system.

As a result, Birmingham is an attractive option for businesses looking to relocate or expand.

Upsides:

  • Affordable
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Diverse
  • Public Transportation
  • Arts and Festivals

Downsides:

  • Summer Climate
  • High Poverty Rate
  • High Crime Rate
  • Sales Tax is High
  • Hilly Terrain

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 206,151
  • Median Value of Home – $224,000
  • Median Rent – $1,226
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 75.7
  • Employability Rate – 97.6
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 66.48 (16.61 Violent and 49.87 Property)
  • The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Regions Financial Corp., and Honda Manufacturing of Alabama are some companies that provide employment.

Best neighborhoods in Birmingham

Five Points South, Glenn Iris, Forest Park

3. Montgomery

Montgomery is the capital of Alabama, with a beautiful landscape. The city is also the county seat of Montgomery County. The county was created by an act of the Alabama State Legislature in 1819 from a large portion of broken-off Montgomery County, Georgia. The city became the state capital in 1846. The first White House of the Confederacy was located here until it was moved to Richmond following Virginia’s secession from the Union and joining the Confederate States of America. Montgomery was one of the key stations on the Underground Railroad before the American Civil War. The city was ranked highly for its tree canopy, parks, and green space. In addition, Montgomery was found to be one of the most employable cities in the country. The city has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. In addition, Montgomery was rated as one of the best cities for recent college graduates.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Centrally located in the state of Alabama

Downsides:

  • High Traffic
  • High Poverty Rate
  • Hot Weather
  • High Crime Rate

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 197,403
  • Median Value of Home – $127,030
  • Median Rent – $1,028
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 75.8
  • Employability Rate – 96.2
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 37.50 (5.14 Violent and 32.36 Property)
  • Maxwell/Gunter Air Force Base, State of Alabama, and Montgomery Public Schools are some of the best companies in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best neighborhoods in Montgomery

Capitol Heights, Garden District, Cottage Hill

4. Mobile

Mobile, Alabama, is a beautiful city with much to offer in employability. The city’s convenient location on the Gulf of Mexico provides easy access to many different industries, including shipping, tourism, and fishing. The city has made a concerted effort to improve its appearance, investing in new parks and public art projects in recent years. These efforts have paid off, as Mobile was recently named one of the most beautiful cities in America by Travel + Leisure magazine.

With its many appealing features, Mobile is an excellent choice for those looking for employment opportunities in various industries. In addition, Mobile’s diverse population means that there are plenty of opportunities for those seeking employment in the healthcare, education, and service sectors. Furthermore, the city’s mild climate and proximity to beaches make it an attractive place to live and work.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Excellent Diversity
  • Less Property Tax

Downsides:

  • Natural Disasters such as hurricanes
  • Weather can be Extreme
  • High Crime Rate

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 185,453
  • Median Value of Home – $175,447
  • Median Rent – $1,011
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 82.9
  • Employability Rate – 95.6
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 29.50 (3.84 Violent and 25.66 Property)
  • St. Paul’s Episcopal School, Springhill Medical Center, and The Orthopedic Group are some of the best employers in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best neighborhoods in Mobile

Hannon Park, Rickarby, Navco

5. Tuscaloosa

Tuscaloosa is a beautiful city located in west-central Alabama. It is the fifth-largest city in the state, with over 100,000 people. The city is home to the University of Alabama, one of the area’s largest employers. The university is also a major tourist destination, bringing in over 1 million visitors. Tuscaloosa is also known for its lively downtown area, home to various shops, restaurants, and bars. The city has a rich history and culture, and its residents are friendly and welcoming. In recent years, Tuscaloosa has been ranked as one of the best places to live and work in the United States. The city’s low cost of living and high quality of life makes it an attractive option for those looking for employment opportunities.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Excellent Nightlife

Downsides:

  • High Crime Rate
  • Hot Humid Summers
  • High Sales Tax
  • High Traffic

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 103,946
  • Median Value of Home – $205,101
  • Median Rent – $1,172
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 87.9
  • Employability Rate – 96.5
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 39.47 (4.43 Violent and 35.04 Property)

The University of Alabama, Mercedes-Benz U.S. International, and Regional Medical Center are some of the leading companies employed in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best neighborhoods in Tuscaloosa

Indian Hills, Alberta City, West Tuscaloosa

6. Hoover

Hoover, Alabama, is not only a beautiful city, but it’s also a great place to work. The city is home to several large employers, including Fortune 500 companies. The city’s central location makes it easy to commute to and from work, and the variety of employers means that there are plenty of job opportunities. Hoover also has a very low unemployment rate, making it an attractive option for looking for work.

In addition, the cost of living in Hoover is relatively low, making it an affordable place to live. And, of course, the city’s natural beauty is second to none. Hoover has something for everyone, from the rolling hills to the scenic riverfront. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family or a city to start your career, Hoover is a perfect choice.

Upsides:

  • Air Quality
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • Weather can be Extreme

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 86,521
  • Median Value of Home – $398,352
  • Median Rent – $1,217
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 103.9
  • Employability Rate – 96.9
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 19.16 (1.17 Violent and 17.99 Property)
  • BLG Logistics, Hoover City Schools, and Hunter Street Baptist Church are some of the top employers in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best neighborhoods in Hoover

Bluff Park, Ross Bridge

7. Dothan

Dothan is the largest city and the county seat of Houston County, Alabama, United States. It is in the state’s southeastern corner, approximately 20 miles (32 km) west of the Georgia state line and 30 miles (48 km) north of Florida.

Dothan, Alabama, is a beautiful place to live and work. With its rolling hills, scenic forests, and crystal-clear rivers, it’s no wonder that people are drawn to the area. The city also offers a great quality of life, with top-notch schools, safe neighborhoods, and amenities. In addition, Dothan’s location makes it an ideal place to live and work. Situated in the heart of the Southeast, the city is within easy driving distance of major metropolitan areas like Atlanta, Birmingham, and Nashville. As a result, Dothan offers its residents a unique combination of beauty and employability. Whether you’re looking for a place to raise a family or launch a career, Dothan is perfect.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • High Crime Rate

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 70,753
  • Median Value of Home – $167,005
  • Median Rent – $800
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 80.2
  • Employability Rate – 97.5
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 39.80 (8.71 Violent and 31.09 Property)
  • Southeast Alabama Medical Center, Dothan City/Houston County Schools, and Flowers Hospital employ many citizens.

Best neighborhoods in Dothan:

Stonebridge Estates, Woodsvalley, and Wiregrass Hills

8. Auburn

Situated at the confluence of the Tallapoosa and Coosa rivers, Auburn is a verdant oasis during a hot and humid climate. The city’s tree-lined streets and sprawling parks provide a welcome respite from the summer heat, while its red clay soils give the landscape a warm, welcoming hue. Its strong sense of community complements Auburn’s natural beauty. The city is home to two major universities, Auburn University and Tuskegee University, which lend it a vibrant and cosmopolitan atmosphere. Auburn is an increasingly popular destination for tourists and new residents alike, thanks to its many cultural attractions and scenic locations. Recent studies have shown that Auburn is one of the top 10 cities in the nation for employment opportunities. Many companies offer a variety of high-paying jobs, making Auburn an attractive place to live and work.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • Climate condition are Extreme
  • High Traffic

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 68,551
  • Median Value of Home – $313,152
  • Median Rent – $1,360
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 102
  • Employability Rate – 97.5
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 19.57 (3.24 Violent and 16.32 Property)
  • Auburn University, Briggs & Stratton, and Auburn City Schools are the best employers in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best neighborhoods in Auburn

Carrywoods, Windway, Mt. Auburn

9. Madison

Madison, Alabama, is a beautiful city with plenty of charm and Southern hospitality. The city’s picturesque setting, vibrant economy, and excellent schools make it a desirable place to live and work. Located just north of Huntsville, Madison is home to several large corporations, including many in the aerospace and defense industries. The city’s employers provide good-paying jobs with good benefits, making Madison an attractive place to build a career. In addition to its strong economy, Madison is also known for its excellent schools. Students in Madison enjoy small class sizes, experienced teachers, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The city’s low crime rate and high quality of life make it an ideal place to raise a family.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education
  • Low Crime Rate

Downsides:

  • Water and Sewer costs are Outrageous

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 54,899
  • Median Value of Home – $349,252
  • Median Rent – $1,261
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 96.0
  • Employability Rate – 97.5
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 17.02 (3.14 Violent and 13.88 Property)
  • Intergraph, Hexagon Safety & Infrastructure, and Alliance HR Services are some of the leading employers in the state.

Best neighborhoods in Madison:

Vilas, Brentwood Village, Hill Farms

10. Decatur

Decatur, Alabama, is a beautiful town located in the state’s northeast corner. The town is situated in the Tennessee River Valley. The city is home to several pristine parks and public spaces and a variety of architecturally stunning buildings. Decatur is also a great place to live and work, thanks to its strong economy and diverse employment opportunities. Decatur is also a hub for education, with several colleges and universities located within its borders. The city has attracted several new businesses and industries in recent years, making it an ideal location for job seekers. Decatur has something to offer whether you’re looking for an exciting career or a relaxing retirement.

Upsides:

  • Livability
  • Low Cost of Living
  • Good Education

Downsides:

  • High Poverty Rate
  • High Crime Rate

Quick Facts:

  • Population – 54,688
  • Median Value of Home – $177,613
  • Median Rent – $726
  • Overall Cost of Living Compared to National Average 100 – 77.0
  • Employability Rate – 97.3
  • Crime Rate per 1000 residents – 35.78 (3.50 Violent and 32.28 Property)
  • DeKalb County Government, Emory University Health Systems, and the Decatur Board of Education are some of the top employers in the city.

CALCULATE MY MOVE

Best neighborhoods in Decatur:

East Lake, Lake Claire, Decatur Heights

Conclusion

There are many great cities to choose from when considering a move to Alabama. The state’s largest cities offer a variety of employment opportunities, excellent schools, and low crime rates. If you’re looking for an exciting career or a relaxing retirement, Alabama has something to offer everyone. Thanks for Reading!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the largest city in Alabama?

The largest city in Alabama in Huntsville, with over 207,921 people.

What are the safest cities in Alabama?

The safest cities in Alabama include Madison, Auburn, and Hoover. These cities have very low crime rates, making them ideal places to live and raise families.

See Also: The Most Livable Cities In The US

CALCULATE MY MOVE

What is the cost of living in Alabama?

The cost of living in Alabama varies depending on the city you choose to live in. Generally, cities in northern Alabama are more expensive than those in southern Alabama. However, there are plenty of affordable options throughout the state.

What is the fastest-growing city in Alabama?

Huntsville is the fastest growing city in Alabama state.

Written by


Alex Sherr is the founder of My Long Distance Movers, a blog that provides moving information and resources for people who are relocating. He has more than two decades of experience in the moving and relocation industry, and he is passionate about helping people relocate smoothly and efficiently. When he's not writing or blogging, Alex enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children.