Alabama , the " Heart of Dixie , " is a state steeped in southerly chronicle , lifelike beauty and vivacious polish . Its big cities range from bustle about economical hubs to wizard towns with deep custom . From civil rights landmarks to thriving industriousness , thelargest metropolis in Alabamareflect the state ’s dynamical character .
TheAlabama governmentranks its cities and towns in eight classes base on population , with the highest class being cities home to over 100,000 hoi polloi . As of 2023 , four cities are in the highest class , but more recent data shows a 5th metropolis , Tuscaloosa , joining this ranking .
Whether you ’re exploring historic sites , enjoying universe - class barbeque , or taking in picturesque landscape , Alabama ’s city extend a divers array of experiences . In this clause , we ’ll rank city universe base on themost recent datafrom the United States Census Bureau .
1. Huntsville (226,000)
Known as " Rocket City,“Huntsvilleis the big metropolis in Alabama and a hub for aerospace and technology . Home to NASA ’s Marshall Space Flight Center and the U.S. Space & Rocket Center , it ’s a city of invention . Its farm economy , outdoor creature comforts and cultural attracter make it one of Alabama ’s most dynamical cities .
Just south of Huntsville is the army ’s Redstone Arsenal , a sprawling land area facility that hire up to 40,000 U.S.government and military personnelin a single city , as well as hosting the Marshall Center for NASA .
2. Birmingham (197,000)
Once a booming steel town , Birminghamis now a vivacious cultural hub and economical center . know as the cradle of the Civil Rights Movement , it features landmarks like the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute and 16th Street Baptist Church . The city also boasts a thriving humanistic discipline scene and top - grade dining options .
3. Montgomery (195,000)
The capital city ofMontgomeryis rich in history and political significance . From the Rosa Parks Museum to the Alabama State Capitol , it toy a central office in the civil rights movement . The revitalized downtown and Riverfront Park add mod charm to this historic city .
4. Mobile (183,000)
Located on the Gulf Coast , Mobileis know for its port and vivacious Mardi Gras celebration , which predate those in New Orleans . The city ’s historic business district and waterfront add to its allure . Mobile is also a hub for shipping , aerospace and ethnical events .
5. Tuscaloosa (111,000)
Home to the University of Alabama , Tuscaloosathrives on the vigor of college sports , particularly Crimson Tide football . The city ’s Riverwalk and ethnical attractions like the Alabama Museum of Natural History enhance its appeal . Tuscaloosa is a blend of youthful vibrancy and Southern magical spell .
6. Hoover (92,400)
A suburb of Birmingham , Hooveris one of the Alabama cities known for excellent schooltime , shopping meat and recreational amenity . Riverchase Galleria , one of the largest shopping malls in the Southeast , is a major draw . The metropolis ’s green spaces and family - friendly standard atmosphere make it a worthy place to survive .
7. Auburn (82,000)
As the home of Auburn University , this city thrives onacademic and athleticpride . Auburn ’s wizard downtown and potent sentiency of community make it a quintessential college town . The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art and Jordan - Hare Stadium are key attractions .
8. Dothan (71,300)
eff as the Peanut Capital of the World , Dothancelebrates its agricultural ancestor with the annualNational Peanut Festival . Located in southeast Alabama , the metropolis also serves as a hub for healthcare , retail and outdoor body process . Its magical downtown reflects its rich heritage .
9. Decatur (58,300)
locate along the Tennessee River , Decaturis a metropolis with a rich industrial history and scenic beauty . bed as the River City , it boasts attractions like the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge and Point Mallard Park . Its saving is drive by manufacturing and transportation .
10. Madison (60,800)
Located near Huntsville , Madisonis one of Alabama ’s fastest - growing cities . recognise for its first-class schools and family - friendly atmosphere , the metropolis pull in young professionals and sept . Its historic downtown and modernistic amenities make it a portmanteau word of honest-to-goodness and new .
11. Florence (42,400)
As part of the Shoals part , Florenceis a cultural jewel with a blend of musical inheritance and small township appealingness . The metropolis hosts the annual W.C. Handy Music Festival and is home to the University of North Alabama . Its historic business district and propinquity to the Tennessee River make it a scenic and vibrant metropolis .
12. Prattville (39,300)
cognize as the Fountain City for its abundant artesian wells , Prattvilleis a charming suburb of Montgomery . The city ’s historic downtown and championship golf course , part of the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail , make it a favourite for visitors and residents likewise .
13. Phenix City (38,400)
Located on the Alabama - Georgia molding near Columbus , Phenix Cityis a develop community with a strong connection to the Chattahoochee River . Its scenic riverfront and unpaid opportunity make it an attractive place to live .
14. Vestavia Hills (38,000)
A suburbia of Birmingham , Vestavia Hillsis known for its excellent schools , upscale neighborhoods and family - well-disposed vibe . The metropolis ’s park , shopping gist and community event make it a top choice for families in the region .
15. Gadsden (33,200)
nuzzle along the Coosa River , Gadsdenis a urban center of scenic smasher and outdoor diversion . Noccalula Falls Park is a standout attractor , draw visitor with its sensational falls and hiking trails . The metropolis also has a plentiful industrial history .
We create this article in conjunction with AI technology , then made certain it was fact - check and delete by a HowStuffWorks editor .
