Largest cities in Alabama

Access hyperlocal data to help you make a confident and informed decision.

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: 216,515 Livability Score: 67

Area Size: 378 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,483 Med. Household Income: $58,287

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: 207,126 Livability Score: 82

Area Size: 553 KM² Density (sq mi): 971 Med. Household Income: $83,204

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: 204,291 Livability Score: 65

Area Size: 414 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,278 Med. Household Income: $75,262

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: 197,324 Livability Score: 75

Area Size: 361 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,416 Med. Household Income: $64,213

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: 103,568 Livability Score: 77

Area Size: 160 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,680 Med. Household Income: $66,711

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: 88,027 Livability Score: 84

Area Size: 122 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,869 Med. Household Income: $140,085

Living in Hoover, AL offers a suburban lifestyle with a strong emphasis on community and quality of life. Known for its excellent schools and family-friendly environment, Hoover is one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama. The Riverchase Galleria, one of the largest shopping centers in the Southeast, is a focal point of the city, offering a wide range of retail, dining, and entertainment options.

Dothan Population: 70,979 Livability Score: 64

Area Size: 232 KM² Density (sq mi): 792 Med. Household Income: $73,251

Auburn Population: 67,890 Livability Score: 80

Area Size: 152 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,154 Med. Household Income: $73,816

Decatur Population: 55,434 Livability Score: 72

Area Size: 140 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,025 Med. Household Income: $72,641

Madison Population: 52,584 Livability Score: 76

Area Size: 77 KM² Density (sq mi): 1,777 Med. Household Income: $139,808

Full list of the largest cities in Alabama

Rank	Location	Population	Area KM²	Median Income	Livability Score
1	Birmingham	216,515	378	$58,287	67
2	Huntsville	207,126	553	$83,204	82
3	Montgomery	204,291	414	$75,262	65
4	Mobile	197,324	361	$64,213	75
5	Tuscaloosa	103,568	160	$66,711	77
6	Hoover	88,027	122	$140,085	84
7	Dothan	70,979	232	$73,251	64
8	Auburn	67,890	152	$73,816	80
9	Decatur	55,434	140	$72,641	72
10	Madison	52,584	77	$139,808	76
11	Florence	41,756	68	$59,581	82
12	Phenix City	37,524	73	$63,093	60
13	Prattville	37,437	87	$96,830	76
14	Gadsden	36,146	97	$50,522	59
15	Vestavia Hills	35,269	51	$164,342	84
16	Alabaster	34,559	65	$120,841	76
17	Opelika	31,335	154	$75,956	63
18	Enterprise	28,827	79	$92,734	65
19	Athens	27,586	103	$80,538	75
20	Daphne	27,160	43	$107,327	75
21	Bessemer	27,005	105	$44,482	59
22	Northport	26,634	43	$97,889	78
23	Homewood	25,716	22	$127,411	80
24	Pelham	24,223	100	$117,484	68
25	Trussville	23,122	86	$158,739	79
26	Fairhope	22,887	36	$118,259	76
27	Albertville	22,354	69	$75,319	65
28	Prichard	22,203	66	$44,986	54
29	Anniston	22,178	118	$62,507	58
30	Oxford	21,765	82	$93,413	76
31	Mountain Brook	20,597	33	$226,680	64
32	Foley	20,043	83	$71,131	61
33	Troy	19,684	73	$52,387	64
34	Helena	19,288	54	$135,368	71
35	Selma	18,220	36	$40,294	56
36	Tillmans Corner	17,980	34	$65,286	61
37	Cullman	16,694	50	$78,486	71
38	Millbrook	16,670	33	$84,497	66
39	Center Point	16,500	16	$68,170	63
40	Talladega	16,019	66	$44,847	59
41	Hueytown	15,979	51	$77,254	57
42	Saraland	15,028	79	$91,682	68
43	Calera	14,874	62	$102,139	59
44	Alexander City	14,850	109	$61,002	55
45	Ozark	14,780	88	$62,185	62
46	Hartselle	14,752	43	$85,300	72
47	Scottsboro	14,746	131	$65,570	74
48	Muscle Shoals	14,685	43	$82,347	68
49	Pell City	14,541	64	$87,408	69
50	Gardendale	14,518	60	$110,988	66

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.