Ever wondered what it’d be like to live where the warm Gulf breeze mixes with Southern living?
Honestly, Alabama is often overlooked in the rush to more famous seaside locations.
But as a Mobile local, I can give you an insider’s scoop on life by the coast.
It’s pretty magical.
Picture strolling under majestic oak trees…
Embracing a leisurely pace of life…
And having the perks of being near the water…
I can’t imagine living anywhere else!
In this post, I’ll guide you through the unique benefits and some challenges of living in Alabama.
So, grab a sweet tea, get comfy, and let me paint the full picture of what it’s like to live here!
The Pros
Low Cost of Living
Living in lower Alabama will be a blessing to your bank account.
According to Yahoo Finance, it’s the fourth-cheapest state in the US!
We’ve jumped up from being eighth just last year.
Sure, our utilities might be a tiny bit pricier — about 7% more than the national average.
But everything else?
Way cheaper.
We’re talking major savings, especially when it comes to housing.
You can expect to pay as much as 30.4% less for your dream home.
And more money in your pocket means more spontaneous getaways, BBQ, or self-care.
It’s a win-win!
Lower Taxes
Another big plus about living in coastal Alabama?
Our taxes are lower.
Thanks to our constitution, we’ve got some of the lowest property taxes per person in the whole country.
We make up for it a bit with sales taxes, from day-to-day stuff like groceries and medicine.
But even with these, we end up paying less tax overall.
Plus, our income tax system is pretty straightforward.
You’re going to love how light the tax burden feels down here.
It’s just another reason to smile about living in this sweet spot.
Beautiful Beaches
Now, let’s talk about one of the best parts of living in Alabama —
Our stunning beaches!
Imagine miles of soft white sand and emerald waters.
These aren’t just any beaches; they’re some of the most beautiful in the country, maybe even the world.
You can spend your weekends lounging under the sun, building sandcastles, combing for shells, or diving into water sports.
From the lively scene at Gulf Shores to the serene stretches of Dauphin Island, there’s a beach vibe for everyone.
No need for long, tiring travels or expensive flights!
Your beach getaway is practically in your backyard, waiting for you whenever you need that quick escape.
Warm Climate
Alabama is blessed with a subtropical climate.
Think average yearly temps around 64°F – that’s like having a mild summer all year round.
In the northern counties, it’s slightly cooler, around 60°F, but head south, and it’s beach weather, baby!
And in our warmer summers, the Gulf of Mexico sends refreshing breezes our way.
What this means for you is fewer layers of clothing and endless opportunities for outdoor activities.
Beach days, hiking adventures, and picnics in the park are always on the agenda here!
Want to see some top activities? If so, here’s one for you! (or watch below)
Rich Cultural Heritage
Think of Alabama as a canvas painted with vibrant cultural strokes.
This place is dotted with historical sites [please link to ‘alabama historical sites,’ it’s been revised] that tell tales of our intriguing past.
Love exploring museums?
You’re in for a treat with a variety of them showcasing everything from art to history.
More of a music lover?
Then, get ready to tap your feet at our lively bluegrass festivals.
And did you know Mardi Gras actually originated here?
That’s right, we throw an MG celebration that rivals the best, bursting with color and excitement.
Nothing beats partying in this prime coastal location!
Living here means you’re woven into a vibrant, ever-evolving tapestry of rich culture.
Excellent Seafood and Cuisine
In Alabama, food is everything.
You’re never far away from a cozy mom-and-pop restaurant where every meal feels like a family recipe.
And because we’re in a coastal location, the freshness and variety of seafood is unmatched!
Bayou La Batre, our seafood capital, offers the freshest catches around.
The drinking scene is also thriving, with so many innovative wineries and breweries throughout the state.
If you’d like to know more about our culinary offerings, take inspo from these food bloggers and try them out yourself!
Seriously, your palate is going to thank you for moving here!
Endless Outdoor Recreational Opportunities
We gotta walk off those po’boys somehow, right?
Well, in Alabama, we’re spoiled for choice with outdoor activities!
You can stroll under a lush canopy of trees, feeling like the main character in a movie.
And hey, this state is so scenic that some iconic films were actually shot here!
For a bit of family fun, why not take your kids to our skate parks or have a playful round of mini golf?
Have a little one who’s crazy about animals? Our zoos are perfect for an educational day out.
With so many things to do, there’s no excuse for being bored or out of shape!
For adventurers, our hiking trails and nature walks are waiting to be explored.
Embracing the great outdoors is just our way of life here!
Football is a Big Deal
In Alabama, football isn’t just a sport; it’s a passion that runs deep!
Saturdays here are all about college football, a tradition we’re practically born into.
Saying you’re not into football?
That’s like speaking a foreign language around these parts.
As an Auburn alum myself, I know the thrill of game day firsthand —
The roar of the crowd…
The sea of orange and blue…
The palpable electricity of anticipation…
I’m getting riled up just thinking about it!
Whether at a tailgate party or watching the game with friends, football brings everyone together.
It creates a sense of community and shared enthusiasm that’s simply a part of living in this vibrant place.
The Cons
High Heat and Humidity in the Summer
It can get pretty toasty here, and not everyone’s a fan of that steamy, sticky weather.
But you know what?
It’s the perfect excuse to get creative with cooling off.
Think of it as nature’s way of nudging us towards the pool or a fun indoor activity.
And while we do get a rare snowflake or two in the winter, it’s pretty uncommon.
So, if you’re not a fan of shoveling snow, you’re in luck!
Risk of Hurricanes and Severe Storms
Living here means you have to keep an eye out for hurricanes and storms.
It’s just something we have to live with, being so close to the Gulf of Mexico.
We see more of these in late summer, with September being the peak.
Our homes are insured for hurricane damages, and many of us even have flood insurance for that extra peace of mind.
You’ll also have to be ready with your emergency kits and evacuation plans.
It’s all about being prepared and staying safe!
But hey, it’s a chance to bond with neighbors and show that community spirit when prepping for a storm or cleaning up afterward.
We look out for each other here, and that’s something special.
Limited Public Transportation
Public transportation options are a bit limited in Alabama, so having a car is pretty handy.
But here’s the upside:
Driving around here is a breeze!
Roads are generally less congested, and the scenic views make every drive enjoyable.
As of now, Amtrak is working on bringing a new passenger rail route to Downtown Mobile.
It’s set to start in 2024 and will be a game changer, making travel along the Gulf Coast easier.
Until then, private vehicles are the way to go, giving you the freedom to explore the region.
Seasonal Tourist Crowds
Living in Alabama does mean we get our share of seasonal tourist crowds.
But honestly, we can’t blame them!
Our stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture are like magnets.
It’s a testament to how awesome this place is.
The influx of visitors brings a lively buzz and energy, especially during summer and big events.
It’s fun seeing new faces and sharing the love of our home.
Plus, it’s good for local businesses too.
So, while the crowds might mean a bit more hustle and bustle, it’s a small price to pay for living in such an amazing spot.
Roaches, Termites, and Mosquitos
The warm weather here does have a little side effect —
It’s an open invitation to roaches, termites, and mosquitos.
But we kind of just chalk it up to the varied wildlife scene.
And it’s not just the little guys; we’ve got snakes, spiders, gators, and the occasional shark.
We learn to live with these wild neighbors, but they can be an inconvenience.
It’s all part of the package of living in such a lush natural environment.
Sure, they keep us on our toes, but they also remind us we’re part of a bigger, wilder world.
A little awareness and precaution, and it’s just another day in paradise!
Businesses are Closed on Sundays
This isn’t some weird law, but a lot of businesses are closed on Sundays.
It’s a tradition that goes back a long way, rooted in giving everyone a day to unwind, spend time with family, or go to church.
This means you’ll likely have to adjust your errand schedule.
Still, some would say it adds to the charm of our slower, more relaxed pace of life.
And let’s be honest…
The anticipation of getting Chick-fil-A when they’re open just makes it all worth it!
High Crime Rate
It’s a sad reality that we have to talk about crime.
Alabama’s got its challenges, with the violent crime rate being above the national average.
This year, it went up from 4.5 to 6.0 incidents per 1,000 residents.
It’s not something we like to hear, but it’s important to be aware and prioritize safety at all times.
We do look out for each other, stay vigilant, and try to make our neighborhoods safer.
Poverty
It’s tough to talk about, but poverty is a challenge here.
About 16.2% of our population were living below the poverty line in 2022.
This, of course, ties in with our higher crime rates.
But here’s the heartening part:
We’re a community-minded bunch.
There are numerous charities and initiatives dedicated to helping those in need.
From food banks to educational programs, there’s a strong spirit of giving and support.
Struggling Public Education
Public education in our area is a mixed bag.
We face some hurdles with K-12 funding and rankings — that’s the hard truth.
But we’re not standing still.
There’s a strong push to improve, with initiatives aimed at boosting essential skills like reading and math.
On the bright side, our major universities are knocking it out of the park, ranking high on a national level.
This shows we have the potential to excel in education.
We’re taking steps to improve, but there’s still a long way to go.
FAQs
Is it a good idea to move to Alabama?
Absolutely, moving to Alabama is an excellent idea!
The Yellowhammer State is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.
You’ll love the pleasant weather, beautiful beaches, and friendly communities.
Check out these fun facts to get you more acquainted with Alabama.
Or better yet, come visit to get a feel for the place!
Is it expensive to live in Alabama?
Not at all; living in Alabama is actually pretty affordable!
The cost of living here is about 13% lower than the national average.
So, you get to enjoy a bit more bang for your buck!
What is the best part of living in Alabama?
The best part of living in Alabama is its variety.
One day, you could be wandering through sunflower fields;
then the next, you could be museum-hopping for a dose of culture.
In the morning, you could be strawberry picking;
then in the afternoon, you might find yourself swimming in one of our beautiful lakes.
We pretty much have everything here, making every day an adventure!
Related Reading: Should I move to Mobile AL – Click Here To Learn More
Conclusion
Alabama has its quirks, like any place, but the pros far outweigh the cons.
Thinking of making the move?
Come visit, soak in the atmosphere, and collect some souvenirs along the way!
You might just find that coastal Alabama is the perfect place to put down roots.
