Largest cities in Alabama

Nestled in the heart of the American South, Alabama is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and warm hospitality. With an approximate population of around 5 million residents, Alabama ranks as the 24th most populated state in the United States. Over recent years, Alabama's population has been experiencing steady growth, contributing to its evolving demographic landscape. Bordering Mississippi to the west, Tennessee to the north, Georgia to the east, and Florida to the south, Alabama boasts a variety of landscapes from the Appalachian Mountains in the north to the beautiful Gulf Coast beaches in the south. The state is home to approximately 460 cities and towns, offering a blend of urban and rural living. The largest cities in Alabama are spread across its diverse regions, each contributing to the state's unique charm and economic vitality.

Living in Alabama presents numerous benefits, including a low cost of living, mild climate, and a strong sense of community. The state's lower population density compared to more crowded regions allows for more open spaces and less congestion, enhancing the quality of life for its residents. Alabama's growing population signifies a positive economic trend, with increased opportunities for business and development. The slower pace of life, coupled with Southern hospitality, makes Alabama an inviting place to call home. Whether you're drawn to the bustling urban centers or the tranquil rural areas, Alabama's varied cities offer something for everyone. The AreaVibes list of the largest cities in Alabama, created using census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey, provides a comprehensive overview of Alabama cities by population. This information is invaluable for understanding the distribution of people across the state and identifying key urban areas that drive Alabama's growth.

Birmingham Population: 210,928 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 378 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,435 Med. Household Income: $38,832

Birmingham, AL, known as 'The Magic City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in the north-central part of Alabama, Birmingham is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Hoover and Tuscaloosa enhance its status as a central point in the region. Birmingham's blend of historic landmarks, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Huntsville Population: 199,845 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 553 KM² Density (sq mi): 911 Med. Household Income: $56,758

Huntsville, AL, known as "The Rocket City," is renowned for its deep ties to space exploration and technology. Located in the northern part of Alabama, Huntsville is approximately 100 miles north of Birmingham and 110 miles south of Nashville, TN. This medium-sized city is a hub for scientific research and development, attracting professionals and families alike.

Montgomery Population: 199,054 Livability Score: 64

Area Size: 414 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,245 Med. Household Income: $49,608

Montgomery, AL, known as "The Capital of Dreams," is rich in history and southern charm. Located in the central part of Alabama, Montgomery is approximately 90 miles south of Birmingham and 160 miles west of Atlanta, GA. This medium-sized city is the state capital and offers a unique blend of historical significance and modern amenities.

Mobile Population: 189,994 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 361 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,362 Med. Household Income: $43,456

Mobile, AL, known as "The Port City," is renowned for its rich history and vibrant cultural scene. Located on the Gulf Coast, Mobile is approximately 60 miles west of Pensacola, FL, and 150 miles east of New Orleans, LA. This medium-sized city is known for its beautiful waterfront, historic architecture, and lively festivals, making it a desirable place to live.

Tuscaloosa Population: 100,633 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 160 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,625 Med. Household Income: $44,507

Tuscaloosa, AL, known as 'The Druid City,' offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern urban amenities. Located in Tuscaloosa County, Tuscaloosa is a large city that serves as a major cultural and economic hub. Major nearby cities like Birmingham (60 miles) and Montgomery (100 miles) enhance its status as a central point in the region. Tuscaloosa's blend of scenic landscapes, cultural festivals, and urban amenities creates a distinctive living experience.

Hoover Population: 85,386 Livability Score: 83

Area Size: 122 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,776 Med. Household Income: $92,984

Hoover, AL - A City of Growth and Opportunity"; echo "

Dothan Population: 68,608 Livability Score: 62

Area Size: 232 KM² Density (sq mi): 764 Med. Household Income: $48,377

Auburn Population: 65,508 Livability Score: 78

Area Size: 152 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,073 Med. Household Income: $49,028

Decatur Population: 54,344 Livability Score: 73

Area Size: 140 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,000 Med. Household Income: $49,296

Madison Population: 50,717 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,671 Med. Household Income: $94,214

Full list of the largest cities in Alabama

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Birmingham	210,928	378	$38,832	67
2	Huntsville	199,845	553	$56,758	83
3	Montgomery	199,054	414	$49,608	64
4	Mobile	189,994	361	$43,456	73
5	Tuscaloosa	100,633	160	$44,507	76
6	Hoover	85,386	122	$92,984	83
7	Dothan	68,608	232	$48,377	62
8	Auburn	65,508	152	$49,028	78
9	Decatur	54,344	140	$49,296	73
10	Madison	50,717	77	$94,214	76
11	Florence	40,652	68	$39,735	82
12	Prattville	36,599	87	$64,613	75
13	Phenix City	36,461	73	$41,842	59
14	Gadsden	35,224	97	$34,062	59
15	Vestavia Hills	34,482	51	$110,478	83
16	Alabaster	33,373	65	$80,871	75
17	Opelika	30,589	154	$50,488	60
18	Enterprise	28,170	79	$62,182	64
19	Athens	26,686	103	$53,144	74
20	Daphne	26,578	43	$71,105	75
21	Bessemer	26,063	105	$30,284	58
22	Northport	25,970	43	$64,814	76
23	Homewood	25,170	22	$84,418	82
24	Pelham	23,707	100	$79,268	67
25	Trussville	22,590	86	$104,976	78
26	Fairhope	22,035	36	$80,106	76
27	Albertville	21,620	69	$51,095	61
28	Prichard	21,618	66	$30,464	53
29	Anniston	21,518	118	$41,366	58
30	Oxford	21,282	82	$63,156	74
31	Mountain Brook	20,178	33	$152,646	64
32	Foley	19,337	83	$48,373	61
33	Troy	18,995	73	$34,603	65
34	Helena	18,631	54	$89,982	69
35	Selma	17,762	36	$26,581	56
36	Tillmans Corner	17,419	34	$43,989	60
37	Cullman	16,072	50	$52,301	70
38	Millbrook	16,037	33	$56,722	66
39	Center Point	15,971	16	$45,221	62
40	Hueytown	15,446	51	$51,350	57
41	Talladega	15,405	66	$30,088	60
42	Saraland	14,561	79	$61,116	66
43	Alexander City	14,515	109	$41,004	56
44	Scottsboro	14,452	131	$43,713	71
45	Hartselle	14,421	43	$56,323	72
46	Muscle Shoals	14,379	43	$54,620	67
47	Ozark	14,350	88	$41,894	61
48	Calera	14,327	62	$68,171	57
49	Pell City	14,081	64	$59,536	71
50	Fort Payne	14,063	146	$42,200	67

Methodology

To compile the list of the largest cities in Alabama, AreaVibes used census data from the United States Census Bureau's American Community Survey (ACS). The American Community Survey releases updated estimates annually, offering a valuable resource for understanding the evolving dynamics within communities. These estimates are crucial for officials, community leaders, businesses, and local residents as they provide insights into demographic, economic, and social changes. By analyzing ACS data, stakeholders can make informed decisions, plan for future developments, and address the needs of their communities effectively. The detailed population information from the ACS helps track trends, allocate resources, and implement policies that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Map of the population Density by State

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The map above serves as an excellent tool for discovering the most and least densely populated states across the United States. By highlighting both the states with the highest and lowest population density, it offers a comprehensive view of the nation's demographic landscape. This visual representation allows users to easily compare different regions, making it a valuable resource for anyone considering relocation or investment opportunities. Living in high density states could give you access to the following benefits: additional economic opportunities, enhanced amenities, improved health care, better infrastructure and technological advancement. Less densely poupulated states on the other hand, often have a lower cost of living, reduced traffic, closer-knit communities, abundant natural spaces and lower crime rates.