Pros and Cons of Living in North Alabama

May 18, 2024

Pros and Cons of Living in North Alabama (2023 Update)

Introduction

  • Tim updates an old video discussing the pros and cons of living in Huntsville, North Alabama.
  • Highlights changes and updates due to the past year’s developments.

Pros

1. Cost of Living

  • Fourth lowest in the U.S.
  • Lower costs for housing, food, etc.

2. Property Taxes

  • Second lowest in the U.S.
  • 3.33% property tax rate.
  • Homestead Exemption: Reduces property taxes by half for homeowners, and senior citizens (65+) pay no property taxes.

3. Sales Tax

  • 4% state sales tax makes it the 41st lowest in the country.
  • Combined Sales Tax: Madison County’s total sales tax around 8%, still comparatively low.

4. Growth

  • Unprecedented economic growth due to job market boom.
  • Notable companies: Facebook, Google, Amazon, Toyota, Hyundai.
  • Presence of NASA, Military, and numerous defense contractors.
  • Diverse job market and economy.
  • The city ranks high in various quality of life and business opportunity lists.

5. Job Opportunities

  • Approx. 14,000 job listings in Huntsville.
  • Low unemployment rate, especially in North Alabama.
  • High-paying technical jobs in engineering, defense, and tech sectors.
  • Robust trade education programs offer high starting salaries (e.g., welding).

6. Schools

  • Among the best in the state.
  • Madison school system highly regarded.
  • Technology high school ranked number one.
  • Good higher education options: University of Alabama system, junior colleges, trade schools.

7. Weather

  • Spring: Beautiful, not too hot.
  • Summer: Hot (95-100°F), high humidity.
  • Winter: Moderate cold.
  • Tornadoes occur but rarely cause major damage.
  • Abundant outdoor activities: hiking, water sports, green spaces, proximity to the beach.

8. Proximity and Accessibility

  • Location:
    • 1.5 hours south of Nashville.
    • 1.5 hours north of Birmingham.
    • 3 hours from Atlanta.
    • 5 hours north of the Gulf of Mexico.
    • 5 hours from Gatlinburg.

9. Home Prices

  • Average Home Price: $350,000-$450,000.
  • Property Values: Continuously rising.
  • Seller’s Market: Low inventory but negotiation possible.

10. People

  • Diverse, transient population due to job relocations.
  • Friendly and polite local culture.

Cons

1. Hyper Growth

  • Growing Pains: Challenges in housing, infrastructure, utilities.

2. Housing Inventory

  • 20-year low in inventory.
  • Limited homes in middle price range.

3. Traffic

  • Increased traffic due to population growth.
  • Average commute is 18 minutes.

4. Lack of Mass Transit

  • Sparse bus system, reliance on cars.
  • Mass transit improvements underway.

5. Weather

  • Summer Heat and Humidity: Uncomfortable for some.
  • Occasional tornadoes.

6. Entertainment

  • Past issue: Lack of activities and venues.
  • Current state: Improved with more restaurants, bars, breweries, music venues, comedy clubs.

Conclusion

  • The pros of living in North Alabama outweigh the cons.
  • A positive perspective on living in North Alabama as a native resident.
  • Encourages new residents and offers assistance through Tim’s real estate company, Revolved Realty.