If you’re thinking about moving to Alabama, bustling cities like Birmingham or Montgomery might come to mind. However, this state has much more to offer. From quaint downtowns to festivals that bring the community together, Alabama’s small towns are perfect for anyone looking to experience what life is like in its quieter corners. In this Redfin article, we’ll discuss 9 charming small towns in Alabama, each with their own unique character and plenty of reasons to call home.
1. Cottondale, AL
Median Sale Price: $198,000
Homes for sale in Cottondale | Apartments for rent in Cottondale
Cottondale is a small town located just outside of Tuscaloosa. Known for its laid-back atmosphere, Cottondale gives visitors a chance to experience rural Southern charm. One of the town’s highlights is Hurricane Creek Park, a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty of Alabama. The town’s close proximity to the University of Alabama makes it a convenient place for those looking to explore the region’s college-town culture while enjoying the peace and quiet of a smaller community.
2. Ozark, AL
Median Sale Price: $178,500
Homes for sale in Ozark | Apartments for rent in Ozark
Ozark has a deep connection to military aviation with its proximity to Fort Rucker. Additionally, the town is home to the U.S. Army Aviation Museum, which is a must-see for history buffs. Each spring, the Ozark Crawdad Festival draws locals and visitors for a weekend of delicious Cajun food, live music, and carnival rides. For nature lovers, the nearby Ed Lisenby Lake provides excellent fishing, hiking, and birdwatching opportunities.
3. Alexander City, AL
Median Sale Price: $212,500
Homes for sale in Alexander City | Apartments for rent in Alexander City
Alexander City, affectionately known as “Alex City,” is a lakeside town that offers both relaxation and adventure. Located on the shores of Lake Martin, one of Alabama’s largest and most beautiful lakes, the town attracts visitors for boating, fishing, and scenic lakefront picnics. Each summer, locals celebrate the Lake Martin Jazz Festival, where they enjoy live music and lake views. Downtown Alex City features historic buildings with quaint shops and restaurants like Jake’s Restaurant, known for its Southern comfort food and friendly atmosphere.
4. Tuskegee, AL
Median Sale Price: $105,000
Homes for sale in Tuskegee | Apartments for rent in Tuskegee
Home to Tuskegee University, founded by Booker T. Washington, Tuskegee proudly honors its legacy of higher learning and African American history. The Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site celebrates the bravery of the first Black military aviators who trained here during World War II. Each fall, the town hosts the Annual Booker T. Washington Days, a festival that commemorates the school’s founding with lectures, performances, and community celebrations. Looking for things to do outdoors? The town’s nearby Tuskegee National Forest, the smallest national forest in the U.S., offers hiking trails and camping spots for nature lovers.
5. Centreville, AL
Median Sale Price: $137,000
Homes for sale in Centreville | Apartments for rent in Centreville
Centreville, a small town located along the Cahaba River. One of the town’s most notable landmarks is the Bibb County Courthouse. This historic courthouse was built in 1902 and is a centerpiece of downtown. On weekends, you can find locals canoeing or fishing along the scenic Cahaba River, which is known for its biodiversity, including the rare Cahaba lily. Each spring, Centreville celebrates its history with Cahaba River Fest, a weekend event filled with live music, food vendors, and river activities.
6. Russellville, AL
Median Sale Price: $215,000
Homes for sale in Russellville | Apartments for rent in Russellville
Every August, Russellville hosts the beloved Franklin County Watermelon Festival. This festival is a favorite among locals where they enjoy a weekend of watermelon-themed fun, including seed-spitting contests, live music, and arts and crafts. The town is also home to the historic Roxy Theatre, which has been entertaining residents with movies and live performances since the 1940s. Dismals Canyon, a National Natural Landmark just a short drive away, offers hiking trails and the chance to see rare bioluminescent creatures called Dismalites – or glowworms.
7. Pell City, AL
Median Sale Price: $260,500
Homes for sale in Pell City | Apartments for rent in Pell City
Pell City is a lakeside town located on the shores of Logan Martin Lake. Residents and visitors spend their weekends boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake, which has earned Pell City the nickname “Lake Life City.” The annual Logan Martin LakeFest, held each summer, celebrates the area’s love for the water with boat shows, live music, and food vendors. Pell City also has a charming downtown area with historic architecture and local businesses. A local favorite is the Pell City Coffee Company, where people gather for a quick snack or a cozy cup of coffee.
8. Gordo, AL
Median Sale Price: $200,000
Homes for sale in Gordo | Apartments for rent in Gordo
Gordo is known for its annual Gordo Mule Day, a quirky festival that celebrates the town’s farming history. Every June, locals gather to enjoy parades, mule-pulling contests, and traditional Southern food. The town’s connection to farming is evident in its local farmers markets, where fresh produce and homemade goods are staples. Gordo’s quiet streets and friendly locals make it a peaceful place to slow down and enjoy small-town life.
9. Evergreen, AL
Median Sale Price: $111,000
Homes for sale in Evergreen | Apartments for rent in Evergreen
Evergreen is home to the historic Evergreen Depot, a restored train station that reflects Evergreen’s roots as a key stop along the railroad in the late 19th century. Every fall, Evergreen hosts the Conecuh Sausage Festival, a celebration of the town’s famous Conecuh Sausage, which attracts visitors from all over the South to enjoy food, live music, and fun activities. Evergreen’s natural beauty is also a draw, with nearby Sepulga River offering opportunities for kayaking and fishing.
Methodology: The median home sale price is from the Redfin Data Center.
