Living in Huntsville AL 🌻 | Is Huntsville Alabama a Good Place to Live?
If you’re thinking about moving to Huntsville, you’re in for a pleasant surprise. Located in Northern Alabama, Huntsville offers both Southern charm and cutting-edge innovation – earning it the nickname “Rocket City” thanks to its deep roots in the space program and the space race era. In fact, Huntsville gained national recognition in the 1960s when NASA and other aerospace organizations made it a hub for engineering and technology.
Today, living in Huntsville AL means being a part of one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the country. The city has seen rapid growth in recent years, attracting newcomers with strong job opportunities, top-tier schools, and lower cost of living compared to larger cities. From young professionals to growing families, more and more people are discovering the many benefits of living in Huntsville AL.
Despite its high-tech reputation, Huntsville still holds onto its Deep South roots, with friendly locals, plenty of green space, and year-round community events that bring Huntsville residents together. Whether you’re looking for the best places to live in Alabama or just want a fresh start in a new city, living in Huntsville AL might just be the move you’re looking for.
So, is Huntsville Alabama a good place to live? Let’s dive into everything you need to know about Rocket City.
Is Huntsville Alabama a Good Place to Live?
Huntsville, Alabama is a good place to live. Living in Huntsville AL means enjoying natural beauty and outdoor activities in the city’s green spaces, a thriving job market, and several other fun facts about Huntsville.
Where Is Huntsville?
What county is Hunstville AL in? Huntsville is in Madison County, which is situated in North Alabama near the Tennessee border. Set in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, living in Huntsville AL offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. Additionally, the Tennessee River flows just to the south of the city.
Living in Huntsville AL means being a part of a growing metro area that includes nearby cities and towns like Madison, Owens Cross Roads, and New Market. The city is also just about 100 miles north of Birmingham, one of Alabama’s larger cities, making weekend getaways or business trips easy. After moving to Huntsville, you can enjoy the best of Alabama in cities like Montgomery, Mobile, and Tuscaloosa.
Huntsville Information
- Huntsville county: Madison County
- Huntsville AL area: 225.17 square miles
- Huntsville AL zip code: 35801-35899
- Huntsville area code: 256, 938
- Huntsville AL elevation: 577 feet
- Huntsville AL time zone: Central Time Zone (UTC -6 and -5)
- Closest airport to Huntsville AL: Huntsville International Airport (HSV), 13.3 miles away
Huntsville Population & Demographics
What is the population of Huntsville? There are 215,006 people living in Huntsville AL, making it the most populous city in the state. The Huntsville metro area has seen rapid growth the past few years, with a population increase of 19.3% since 2010.
Limited diversity has been a concern in the past among residents living in Huntsville AL, but the area is steadily becoming more diverse. The racial and ethnic composition of the city is 58.4% White (56.1% non-Hispanic), 29.7% Black or African American, 6.2% two or more races, 2.0% Asian, and 0.6% American Indian.
Residents tend to make more than the Alabama average, and the median household income is $73,319 (higher than the state average of $62,212). The most popular age range of residents living in Huntsville AL is 20-29, with 18% of residents falling into this category.
Additional Huntsville AL Demographics:
- Sex ratio: 51.1% female, 48.9% male
- Educational attainment: 91.6% high school degree (or higher), 46.2% bachelor’s degree (or higher)
- Notable people from Huntsville: Astronaut Jan Davis, hockey player Nic Dowd, NASCAR driver Jimmy Means
- Foreign-born population: 6.6%
Transportation
When it comes to getting around, living in Huntsville AL usually means relying on a car. The city is served by major highways like I-565, U.S. Route 72, and Memorial Parkway, which help keep traffic congestion relatively manageable (except during rush hour, when some areas can slow down a bit).
Huntsville’s infrastructure continues to evolve with its rapid growth, but the city still has limited public transportation. There is a bus system operated by Orbit Transit, so those living in Huntsville AL can rely on public transit to get around the city center. However, routes and schedules are limited, especially outside of the urban core.
Huntsville International Airport (HSV) provides convenient service to domestic destinations and is located just west of the city.
Cost of Living in Huntsville AL
Is Huntsville Alabama a good place to live for those looking for affordable living? You’ll be happy to know that residents living in Huntsville AL enjoy a low cost of living.
So what is the cost of living in Huntsville Alabama? The Huntsville Alabama Cost of Living Index is 90.8, making the city 9.2% more affordable than the national average. Living in Huntsville AL is also more affordable than other Alabama cities like Birmingham and Auburn. After moving to Huntsville, you can enjoy lower-than-average housing, utilities, transportation, and health care costs.
According to the Economic Policy Institute, a family of four living in Huntsville AL would need to earn $103,349 per year ($8,612 per month) to make a comfortable living in the city.
Typical Huntsville Living Expenses:
- Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $16.50
- Gallon of milk: $3.51
- Loaf of bread: $3.02
- Pound of cheese: $6.53
- Pound of bananas: $0.74
- Gallon of gas: $2.92
- Fitness membership (monthly): $44.00
- Average Huntsville utilities per month: $180.00
Source: Numbeo
Curious about the taxes you’ll pay when living in Huntsville AL? Your Huntsville property taxes will vary, and you can use Madison County’s online calculator to compute your estimated taxes. The Huntsville sales tax rate is 9%, and the Huntsville income tax rate varies from 2% to 5%.
Huntsville AL Real Estate | Average Rent & Home Prices
Are you looking to buy a home when living in Huntsville AL? Housing costs in Huntsville are quite low, making it one of the most affordable larger cities in the South. According to Redfin, the average home price in Huntsville AL is $334,950, which is lower than the national average of $438,357. The housing market has been slowing down, as housing costs are down 0.6% compared to last year.
If you’re interested in renting when living in Huntsville AL, then you’ll find plenty of apartment and home rental options. According to RentCafe, the average rent in Huntsville AL is $1,242, which is below the national average of $1,727. The most expensive neighborhoods in Huntsville are Lake Forest ($1,521) and Autumn Ridge ($1,589), while the most affordable options are Russell Hill Estates ($772) and Woodway Pines ($819).
Are you curious about the most affordable choice when moving to Huntsville? According to the ATTOM Rental Affordability Report, it is more affordable to buy than to rent in Huntsville.
Neighborhoods in Huntsville AL | Best Places to Live in Huntsville AL
Wondering where to live in Huntsville AL? No matter what you’re looking for, Huntsville has a variety of neighborhoods that cater to different lifestyles. Here are a few of some of the best areas to live in Huntsville AL.
Jones Valley | Family-Friendly Neighborhood With Mountain Views
Located in southeast Huntsville, Jones Valley is one of the safest neighborhoods in Huntsville AL and a favorite for families. This area features single-family homes, many built in the 1980s and 1990s, with large lots and beautiful views of Monte Sano Mountain. With excellent schools and shopping centers like Valley Bend, this is a favorite among many residents living in Huntsville AL.
Blossomwood | Charming Historic District Popular Among Families Living in Huntsville AL
If you are moving to Huntsville and want to be close to all the action, check out Blossomwood. This area is located just east of downtown and offers walkable streets and mid-century homes. It’s also a great place to live for those who enjoy an active lifestyle and is close to Monte Sano State Park and Five Points.Providence | Modern, Master-Planned Community
This master-planned neighborhood in West Huntsville offers traditional architecture with modern amenities. Residents enjoy shops, restaurants, green spaces, and sidewalks that promote a connected, walkable lifestyle. With townhomes, condos, and newer single-family homes, Providence offers a range of options for various budgets, typically from the mid $500s to high $900s.
Huntsville AL Weather & Climate
Is Huntsville Alabama a good place to live in terms of weather? Living in Huntsville AL means experiencing a humid subtropical climate, according to the Köppen classification. The Huntsville AL climate features hot and humid summers, mild winters, and a good amount of rainfall throughout the year.
The average temperature in Huntsville Alabama in the summer is around 85ºF, while winter lows are around 40ºF. These mild temperatures make the area great for outdoor activities, aside from a few summer days where humid weather makes the outdoors uncomfortable.
Does it snow in Huntsville Alabama? Occasionally. The city averages around 2 inches of snowfall per year, though it’s not a regular winter feature. The average annual rainfall in Huntsville, on the other hand, is around 55 inches. Severe weather and extreme weather events like thunderstorms and tornadoes can occur, especially in spring and late fall.
Huntsville Restaurants
When living in Huntsville AL, you’ll have plenty of amazing restaurants to check out. From craft breweries to restaurants with global menus, Huntsville is a hotspot for foodies. These are just a few of the best places to eat in Huntsville AL.
- MELT Huntsville: MELT is a favorite among residents living in Huntsville AL, offering up the ultimate comfort food dishes. Enjoy different variations of the classic grilled cheese sandwich on MELT’s outdoor patio. 201 Jefferson St N Suite I, Huntsville, AL 35801, (256) 517-8755
- The Poppy and Parliament: You’ll feel like you’re in an English pub when stepping into The Poppy and Parliament. Enjoy cold beer on tap and traditional pub food in this relaxed venue. 117 North Side Square, Huntsville, AL 35801, (256) 715-7152
Connors Steak & Seafood: One of the best restaurants in Huntsville AL, Connors Steak & Seafood offers up aged steaks and fresh seafood in a luxurious setting. 345 The Bridge St, Huntsville, AL 35806, (256) 327-8425
Things to Do in Huntsville AL
After moving to Huntsville, you’ll find plenty of fun things to do, from recreational activities to great entertainment to Huntsville family activities. Parks range from small city parks to large state parks, and there’s always a new one to explore when living in Huntsville AL. These are a few of the best things to do in Huntsville AL.
Top Huntsville Attractions
- Huntsville Aquatics Center: Enjoy the swimming pool at the Huntsville Aquatics Center all year round.
- Burritt on the Mountain: When living in Huntsville AL, make sure you check out this gorgeous estate with a historic mansion and restored 19th-century houses.
- Madison County Nature Trail: If you’re unsure of what to do in Huntsville AL, then take a walk along the 1.5-mile nature trail within this 72-acre park.
- Purdy Butterfly House: This is one of the best things to do in Huntsville AL with kids and features thousands of beautiful butterflies.
- Monte Sano Nature Preserve: This nature preserve features over 25 miles of trails for hiking, biking, running, and more.
- Huntsville Escape Rooms: Make sure you check out Huntsville Escape Rooms when living in Huntsville AL. These interactive rooms are fun for kids and adults of all ages.
- Altitude Trampoline Park: Grab the kids and head to this amusement center, where the floors are covered in bouncy trampolines.
Huntsville Entertainment & Arts
- Lowe Mill ARTS & Entertainment: Once a textile mill, this venue hosts artists and performers from all over the world.
- Alabama Constitution Hall Park: A favorite among residents living in Huntsville AL, this historical village from the 1800s is complete with a working cabinetmaker, breadmaker, and more.
- Stars and Strikes: Stars and Strikes is one of the best attractions for kids living in Huntsville AL, offering hours of bowling fun.
- Mark C. Smith Concert Hall: This popular concert venue features singers, comedians, and orchestras throughout the year.
Huntsville Museums
- U.S. Space & Rocket Center: When living in Huntsville AL, it’s important to learn about the city’s space history. This museum offers a deep dive into Huntsville’s role in the space race.
- EarlyWorks Children’s Museum: If you’re living in Huntsville AL with children, then this interactive history museum is a must-see.
- Huntsville Depot Museum: Learn about local transportation and Civil War-era history in this former depot-turned-museum.
- U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum: Check out this museum to learn more about military history, including weapons and vehicles from the American Revolution tothe present day.
Huntsville Parks & Outdoors
- Bell Mountain Park: Bell Mountain Park is a favorite among residents living in Huntsville AL, and offers walking trails, baseball fields, and more.
- Huntsville Botanical Garden: This attraction includes a nature center, a children's area, and acres of flowers and plants.
- Monte Sano State Park: After moving to Huntsville, check out the amazing mountain views from Monte Sano State Park.
- Big Spring International Park: This landscaped city park includes a manmade pond with ducks, koi fish, and plenty of paved walkways.
Shopping in Huntsville
- Bridge Street Town Centre: Want to shop till you drop when living in Huntsville AL? Check out this open-air mall, which features plenty of shops, restaurants, and a movie theater.
- Parkway Place: This indoor shopping center features all of the retail stores you know and love.
- Valley Bend: This outdoor shopping center is home to retail stores, a grocery store, and a movie theater.
Map of Fun Things to Do in Huntsville AL
Here’s a map of all of the attractions to check out when living in Huntsville AL.
Sports
Living in Huntsville AL means you don’t have to sacrifice your love of sports. While the city may not have major league teams, it’s packed with local spirit and exciting sporting events. The Huntsville Havoc, the city’s Southern Professional Hockey League team, brings plenty of action to the Von Braun Center, and minor league baseball fans can cheer on the Rocket City Trash Pandas at Toyota Field in nearby Madison.
Moving to Huntsville also gives you access to a bustling youth and recreational sports scene, from soccer and baseball to tennis and track. The city is home to high-performing high school teams, college sports from institutions like Alabama A&M and UAH, and frequent tournaments and community events that you can participate in when living in Huntsville AL.
Huntsville Crime Rate
Is living in Huntsville AL safe? This is a popular question among those considering moving to Huntsville. Let’s take a look at the Huntsville crime rate.
- Overall crime rate: 1,805 crimes per 100,000 people (16.0% lower than the state average and 22.3% lower than the national average)
- Violent crime rate: 299 crimes per 100,000 people (26.9% lower than the state average and 19.1% lower than the national average)
- Property crime rate: 1,506 crimes per 100,000 people (13.4% lower than the state average and 22.9% lower than the national average)
As you can see, living in Huntsville AL is very safe, with crime rates that are well below the state and national averages. According to AL, Huntsville’s crime rate is on a downward trend, even with the rapid growth the population is experiencing.
When living in Huntsville AL, you’ll be served by the Huntsville Police Department, which has 500 sworn officers and 200 civilian personnel and patrols on the force.
Economy & Jobs in Huntsville AL
One of the biggest perks of living in Huntsville AL is the strong job market and booming local economy. Often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of the South,” Huntsville is a major hub for science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) careers. The city is home to Redstone Arsenal, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and the U.S. Army’s Missile Defense Agency, making space exploration and defense technologies key pillars of Huntsville’s economy.
The Rocket Center draws talent from across the country and supports thousands of Huntsville AL jobs, offering incredible job opportunities for engineers, scientists, and IT professionals living in Huntsville AL. Additionally, the area has seen growth in private sector opportunities in biotech and cybersecurity.
Top employers in Huntsville AL include Boeing, Raytheon, Northrop Grumman, Dynetics, and Blue Origin, making it a prime destination for young professionals. With so many residents working in high-tech industries and government contracting, it’s easy to see why more people are moving to Huntsville in search of promising careers at one of the best places to work in Huntsville AL.
According to Payscale, the average salary of residents living in Huntsville AL is $83,000. If you’re looking for Huntsville AL jobs, then check out the city job board or do a quick search on Indeed.
Healthcare
When living in Huntsville AL, you’ll have access to high-quality healthcare and top-rated medical facilities. Huntsville Hospital, one of the largest hospitals in Alabama, anchors the city’s healthcare system and offers a wide range of specialized services. The city is also home to Crestwood Medical Center, along with several urgent care centers and specialty practices. Ongoing investment is making Huntsville a destination for both patients and healthcare professionals, and the city’s healthcare scene is only growing.
Huntsville Schools
Will you be living in Huntsville AL with school-aged children? Huntsville City Schools is the primary Huntsville school district, and serves the city’s public schools, which include well-rated elementary schools in Huntsville AL, and several of the best high schools in Huntsville AL, such as Huntsville High School and New Century Technology High School.
Families looking for alternative education options will also find excellent private schools in Huntsville AL, including Randolph School and Westminster Christian Academy, both offering rigorous, well-rounded academic programs.
For those pursuing higher education, Huntsville is home to several universities such as the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and Alabama A&M University, which is known for its outstanding programs in engineering and business.
When living in Huntsville AL, you can find a quiet place to study or grab a good book at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library.
Huntsville Utilities & DMV Change of Address
Before living in Huntsville AL, you’ll need to know about the major providers you’ll be working with in your new home. Gas, electricity, and water are all provided by Huntsville Utilities, while trash and recycling are taken care of by the City of Huntsville.
You will also need to change your address with the DMV or get an Alabama driver’s license if you’re moving to the state for the first time. According to the State of Alabama, residents have 30 days to update their address on their driver’s license or ID card after moving. If you’re moving from out of state, this drops to 10 days. You cannot update your address online. You’ll need to complete a DMV change of address form and submit it either by mail or in person at an Alabama Law Enforcement Agency office.
Is Moving to Huntsville in Your Future?
So, is Huntsville Alabama a good place to live? Living in Huntsville AL is great for couples, families, retirees, and young professionals alike. With a robust job market, low home prices, and friendly residents, moving to Huntsville is becoming more and more popular.
If you’re ready to complete a Huntsville move, then get in touch with the Huntsville AL movers at This Side Up Moving. Our experienced team is ready to make your life easier before, during, and after moving day, handling all of your moving needs.
To discuss your move and get started with a free quote, give our crew a call at (256) 653-7612.
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