There are many things to consider when looking for a place to raise a family. How safe is the neighborhood? Is it diverse? What is the local school system like? You’ll want to consider the cost of living and what family-friendly amenities are available to you.
Whether you are looking at Birmingham homes for sale or a place in Montgomery, you will find a neighborhood that’s right for you.
Birmingham
This is Alabama’s largest city, one with many suburbs suitable for family living. The growing metropolis sits at the foot of the Appalachian Mountains, affording many opportunities for outdoor activity and a natural beauty among the busy city life.
The cost of living here is 9 percent lower than the national average. There are many higher education institutes like Samford, Miles Law School, and Birmingham-Southern.
Family-friendly attractions include the Birmingham Zoo and McWane Science Center.
Huntsville
This is a fast-growing metropolis that has been through a Renaissance of sorts, offering the best of restaurants, shopping, and arts and entertainment.
It was a focal point of the Space Race in the 1960s, and space history and exploration is an integral part of the fabric of the city. The US Space and Rocket Center is home to Space Camp, where every little kid wants to go.
The cost of living is a little higher than the national average, but compared to cities, affordability is very good.
Madison
This culturally and ethnically diverse area has plenty of job opportunities that stem from the Redstone Arsenal Military Base that’s nearby.
Thanks to the base’s proximity, family-friendly events are easy to come by and some of the best schools are in the area.
Homewood
This cozy neighborhood is affordable and popular among people looking to invest in their first family home. It’s a charming area that’s close to larger metropolitan areas that makes it easy to find a nearby job.
Montgomery
This central city is steeped in civil rights history, was once the home of F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald, and was where the Wright Brothers set up their first flight school.
It’s got a thriving arts and culture scene and has flourished thanks to the way it attracts visitors seeking to learn more about the role it has played throughout the nation’s history.
Montgomery has inexpensive taxes and a low cost of living, making it affordable for any budget.
Mountain Brook
This area offers the best school district in the state, and is often noted as the perfect suburb to raise a family.
The homes are spacious here, though a bit on the pricey side.
Auburn
Auburn’s population is 15 percent school-aged residents, and this is one of the more educated places in the state to settle down.
It’s also one of the most affordable places with a home price median of $220,000.
Mobile
Mobile residents can stretch their dollars further than those who live in typical metro areas thanks to the low cost of housing and living.
The cultural scene has a long list of art and history museums, and there are many entertainment venues that host acts in a wide array of genres.