Alabama is located in the southeastern region of the U.S. and is known as the “Heart of Dixie” due to its pivotal role in the Southern culture and history. With a population of approximately 5 million people, Montgomery serves as its capital, while Birmingham, the state’s largest city, is known for its industrial and cultural significance.
10 Largest Cities in Alabama
1. Birmingham (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Jefferson County
- Area: 148.6 square miles
- Population: 197,575 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 205, 659
- ZIP Codes: 35201-35299
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.5186° N, 86.8104° W
Location and History
Birmingham, the largest city in Alabama, is located in the north-central part of the state in Jefferson County. Founded in 1871, the city was named after Birmingham, England, and quickly became an industrial powerhouse due to its rich deposits of iron ore, coal, and limestone. These resources helped Birmingham become a center for steel production, earning it the nickname “The Magic City.” By the early 20th century, the city was a major hub for manufacturing and railroads. Birmingham also played a crucial role during the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s, with significant events such as the Birmingham Campaign, which brought national attention to racial segregation and inequality.
Major Landmarks
- Vulcan Park and Museum: Features the world’s largest cast iron statue, symbolizing Birmingham’s industrial history.
- Birmingham Civil Rights Institute: Chronicles the city’s critical role in the Civil Rights Movement.
- Sloss Furnaces: A historic landmark that showcases the city’s steel-making history.
- McWane Science Center: Offers interactive science exhibits and an IMAX theater.
- Birmingham Museum of Art: Home to a diverse collection of art from around the world.
Major Highways
Birmingham is intersected by several key highways, making it a transportation hub in Alabama. Interstate 65 runs north-south through the city, providing access to Montgomery and Huntsville. Interstate 20 connects Birmingham to Atlanta in the east and Mississippi in the west, while Interstate 59 runs northeast-southwest, providing access to Chattanooga and New Orleans. Interstate 459 is a bypass route around the city, and U.S. Highway 31 runs parallel to I-65, offering an alternative route through central Alabama.
2. Montgomery (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Montgomery County
- Area: 162.2 square miles
- Population: 200,603 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 334
- ZIP Codes: 36101-36191
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.3792° N, 86.3077° W
Location and History
Montgomery, the capital city of Alabama, is located on the Alabama River in the southern-central part of the state. Founded in 1819, the city became the state capital in 1846 due to its central location and economic significance. Montgomery’s history is deeply intertwined with both the Confederacy and the Civil Rights Movement. It was the first capital of the Confederate States of America before the capital moved to Richmond, Virginia. In the 20th century, it became a focal point of the Civil Rights Movement, highlighted by events such as the Montgomery Bus Boycott, led by Rosa Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Major Landmarks
- Alabama State Capitol: A historical building where Jefferson Davis was inaugurated as the president of the Confederacy.
- Rosa Parks Museum: Dedicated to the pivotal role of Rosa Parks in the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
- Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church: The church where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served as pastor.
- Civil Rights Memorial: A tribute to individuals who lost their lives in the Civil Rights Movement.
- Hank Williams Museum: Honors the life and music of the country legend, Hank Williams.
Major Highways
Montgomery is well-connected by a network of major highways. Interstate 65 runs north-south through the city, linking Montgomery to Birmingham and Mobile. Interstate 85 starts in Montgomery and runs northeast, connecting the city to Atlanta. U.S. Highway 231 and U.S. Highway 82 also pass through Montgomery, providing access to surrounding regions, while Alabama Highway 152 offers access to the city’s airport.
3. Mobile (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Mobile County
- Area: 180.1 square miles
- Population: 189,572 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 251
- ZIP Codes: 36601-36695
- Latitude/Longitude: 30.6954° N, 88.0399° W
Location and History
Mobile is a port city on Alabama’s Gulf Coast and one of the oldest cities in the state, founded in 1702 by French colonists. It served as the capital of French Louisiana and later became part of British, Spanish, and American territories. Its strategic location on the Mobile River and its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico has made it a key commercial and military port for centuries. During the American Civil War, Mobile played an essential role in the Confederacy’s naval operations. Today, Mobile is known for its cultural diversity, its shipbuilding industry, and its celebration of Mardi Gras, the oldest such event in the U.S.
Major Landmarks
- USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park: Features a World War II battleship and other military exhibits.
- Fort Conde: A reconstructed 18th-century French fort.
- GulfQuest National Maritime Museum: Dedicated to the maritime history of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Mobile Carnival Museum: Showcases the history and traditions of Mobile’s Mardi Gras celebrations.
- Bellingrath Gardens and Home: A 65-acre garden and estate open to the public.
Major Highways
Mobile is a major transportation hub in southern Alabama, with several key highways converging in the city. Interstate 10 runs east-west through Mobile, connecting the city to New Orleans and Jacksonville. Interstate 65 begins in Mobile and runs north to Montgomery and Birmingham. U.S. Highways 90 and 98 also pass through the city, providing access to the Gulf Coast and inland areas. Additionally, the Causeway and the I-10 Mobile Bay Bridge offer key routes over Mobile Bay.
4. Huntsville (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Madison County
- Area: 217.2 square miles
- Population: 227,017 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 256, 938
- ZIP Codes: 35801-35899
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.7304° N, 86.5861° W
Location and History
Huntsville, located in the Appalachian region of northern Alabama, is known as the “Rocket City” due to its deep ties to the U.S. space program. The city was founded in 1805 and quickly grew as an agricultural hub. In the 20th century, it became a center for rocket development and space exploration with the establishment of Redstone Arsenal and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Huntsville’s role in space exploration helped shape the modern era, with pivotal contributions to the Apollo and Space Shuttle programs. Today, the city is a thriving technology and aerospace hub.
Major Landmarks
- U.S. Space and Rocket Center: A museum showcasing space exploration history and housing rockets, space memorabilia, and interactive exhibits.
- Huntsville Botanical Garden: A 112-acre garden featuring a butterfly house, walking trails, and seasonal exhibits.
- Monte Sano State Park: Offers scenic views of the surrounding Appalachian Mountains and hiking trails.
- EarlyWorks Children’s Museum: A hands-on history museum designed for young visitors.
- Big Spring International Park: The historic center of Huntsville, featuring a beautiful spring and international festival events.
Major Highways
Huntsville’s major highways include Interstate 565, a spur that connects Huntsville to I-65, the main north-south route through Alabama. U.S. Highway 231 runs north-south through the city, connecting Huntsville to Tennessee and the southern part of Alabama. U.S. Highway 72 runs east-west, providing access to Chattanooga and Memphis. The city’s highway network ensures its connectivity to key military and aerospace installations.
5. Tuscaloosa (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Tuscaloosa County
- Area: 72.0 square miles
- Population: 101,129 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 205
- ZIP Codes: 35401-35487
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.2098° N, 87.5692° W
Location and History
Tuscaloosa, located along the banks of the Black Warrior River in west-central Alabama, was founded in 1819 and served as the state capital from 1826 to 1846. The city is named after Chief Tuskaloosa, a Native American leader of the Mississippian culture. Tuscaloosa grew as a center for agriculture and education and is perhaps best known today as the home of the University of Alabama, established in 1831. The university played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement when Governor George Wallace famously attempted to block the integration of African American students in 1963. Tuscaloosa’s economy has since diversified, with a strong presence in education, manufacturing, and healthcare.
Major Landmarks
- Bryant-Denny Stadium: One of the largest college football stadiums, home to the Alabama Crimson Tide.
- Paul W. Bryant Museum: Dedicated to the legendary University of Alabama football coach, Bear Bryant.
- Capitol Park: The site of Alabama’s former state capitol, with ruins and historical markers.
- Tuscaloosa Amphitheater: An outdoor venue for concerts and performances, located by the riverfront.
- Moundville Archaeological Park: A prehistoric Native American site located just south of the city.
Major Highways
Tuscaloosa is well-connected via several major highways. Interstate 20/59 passes through the city, providing direct access to Birmingham to the northeast and Meridian, Mississippi, to the southwest. U.S. Highway 82 runs east-west through Tuscaloosa, connecting the city to Montgomery and Columbus, Mississippi. U.S. Highway 43 and Alabama State Route 69 are also vital roadways, linking the city to smaller communities in the region.
6. Hoover (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Jefferson and Shelby Counties
- Area: 49.3 square miles
- Population: 93,847 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 205, 659
- ZIP Codes: 35216-35244
- Latitude/Longitude: 33.4054° N, 86.8114° W
Location and History
Hoover is a suburb of Birmingham, located primarily in Jefferson County, with portions in Shelby County. It was incorporated in 1967 and has experienced rapid growth in recent decades, largely driven by its proximity to Birmingham and the development of suburban neighborhoods. Hoover is known for its high standard of living, excellent schools, and commercial developments, such as the Riverchase Galleria, one of the largest shopping malls in the Southeast. While relatively young compared to other Alabama cities, Hoover has become one of the state’s most affluent and well-planned communities.
Major Landmarks
- Riverchase Galleria: A massive shopping complex featuring retail stores, restaurants, and hotels.
- Aldridge Gardens: A serene botanical garden with walking trails and a picturesque lake.
- Hoover Metropolitan Stadium: The former home of the Birmingham Barons baseball team, now used for various events and sports.
- Veterans Park: A popular destination for picnics, hiking, and sports, with a large pond and scenic walking trails.
- Moss Rock Preserve: A 349-acre nature preserve with hiking trails, rock formations, and waterfalls.
Major Highways
Hoover is well-served by a network of major highways. Interstate 65 runs north-south through the city, connecting Hoover to Birmingham and Montgomery. Interstate 459 serves as a bypass around Birmingham, providing direct access to other major highways such as I-20 and I-59. U.S. Highway 31 is another key route that passes through the city, offering easy access to the Birmingham metropolitan area and southern parts of Alabama.
7. Dothan (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Houston County
- Area: 90.0 square miles
- Population: 71,072 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 334
- ZIP Codes: 36301-36350
- Latitude/Longitude: 31.2232° N, 85.3905° W
Location and History
Dothan is located in the southeastern corner of Alabama, near the Florida and Georgia state lines. It was incorporated in 1885 and initially grew as an agricultural center, particularly for peanut farming. Today, Dothan is known as the “Peanut Capital of the World,” with peanuts remaining a central component of its economy. In addition to agriculture, Dothan has developed into a regional hub for healthcare, retail, and education. The city’s history is closely tied to the Wiregrass region, which encompasses southeastern Alabama, southwestern Georgia, and the Florida Panhandle.
Major Landmarks
- National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds: The site of the annual National Peanut Festival, a celebration of the peanut farming industry.
- Wiregrass Museum of Art: Features a collection of contemporary art and exhibits about the region’s culture and history.
- Dothan Area Botanical Gardens: A 50-acre garden showcasing local flora and offering walking trails.
- Landmark Park: A living history museum and nature preserve that provides a glimpse into 19th-century farm life.
- Adventureland Theme Park: A family-friendly park offering mini-golf, go-karts, and other attractions.
Major Highways
Dothan is a crucial transportation hub in southeastern Alabama, with several major highways converging in the city. U.S. Highway 231 runs north-south through Dothan, connecting the city to Montgomery and Panama City, Florida. U.S. Highway 84 runs east-west, providing access to Georgia and other parts of Alabama. Additionally, U.S. Highway 431 serves as a critical route, linking Dothan to the northern part of the state.
8. Auburn (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Lee County
- Area: 59.6 square miles
- Population: 76,143 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 334
- ZIP Codes: 36830-36832
- Latitude/Longitude: 32.6099° N, 85.4808° W
Location and History
Auburn, located in eastern Alabama near the Georgia border, is best known as the home of Auburn University, one of the largest universities in the state. Founded in 1836, the city grew rapidly after the university’s establishment in 1856. Auburn’s economy and culture are closely tied to the university, which is a major driver of economic growth, research, and development. The city’s history also includes a significant role in the agricultural sector, particularly in cotton farming. Today, Auburn is one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama, known for its excellent quality of life and strong educational institutions.
Major Landmarks
- Auburn University: A leading educational institution known for its research programs and athletic teams.
- Jordan-Hare Stadium: One of the largest college football stadiums in the country, home to the Auburn Tigers.
- Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art: Auburn’s premier art museum, featuring works from American and European artists.
- Chewacla State Park: A 696-acre park with hiking trails, a lake, and waterfalls.
- Toomer’s Corner: A popular gathering place for Auburn fans, especially after major sports victories.
Major Highways
Auburn is strategically located along several key highways, with Interstate 85 being the primary route through the city, providing direct access to Montgomery and Atlanta. U.S. Highway 280 runs east-west and connects Auburn to Birmingham and Columbus, Georgia. Additionally, Alabama State Routes 147 and 267 serve as major local routes that link the city to surrounding areas.
9. Decatur (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Morgan County
- Area: 60.9 square miles
- Population: 57,070 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 256
- ZIP Codes: 35601-35699
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.6059° N, 86.9833° W
Location and History
Decatur, located along the Tennessee River in northern Alabama, was founded in 1821 and developed as a transportation hub due to its river access and strategic location along railroad lines. The city’s early growth was driven by river commerce, and during the Civil War, Decatur was a key site due to its location. Today, Decatur is known for its industries, particularly manufacturing and aerospace, with many companies taking advantage of its position near the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and Redstone Arsenal in nearby Huntsville. The city is also known as “The River City” due to its proximity to the Tennessee River.
Major Landmarks
- Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge: A large natural area offering opportunities for birdwatching, hiking, and wildlife viewing.
- Cook Museum of Natural Science: A family-friendly museum featuring exhibits on the natural world, including fossils and animals.
- Delano Park: One of the oldest parks in Alabama, featuring gardens, playgrounds, and walking trails.
- Point Mallard Park: A recreation area with a water park, golf course, and camping facilities.
- Old State Bank: A historic bank building that played a role in the city’s economic growth in the 19th century.
Major Highways
Decatur is served by several major highways, including Interstate 65, which runs north-south and connects the city to Birmingham and Nashville. U.S. Highway 31 parallels I-65 and provides an alternate route through the region. U.S. Highway 72 runs east-west and provides access to Huntsville and the Mississippi state line. Additionally, Alabama State Route 20 is a key local route that connects Decatur to surrounding towns and communities.
10. Madison (Alabama)
City Facts
- County: Madison and Limestone Counties
- Area: 30.5 square miles
- Population: 59,041 (2023 estimate)
- Area Codes: 256, 938
- ZIP Codes: 35756-35758
- Latitude/Longitude: 34.6993° N, 86.7483° W
Location and History
Madison is located in northern Alabama, just west of Huntsville. The city was founded in 1856 along a new railroad line and grew as a small agricultural community before evolving into a residential and industrial suburb of Huntsville. Its growth in recent years has been driven by its proximity to Redstone Arsenal, NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center, and other aerospace and defense industries. Madison is known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and suburban development, making it one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama.
Major Landmarks
- Dublin Park: A large community park offering sports facilities, walking trails, and a recreation center.
- Madison City Farmers Market: A popular local market featuring fresh produce, crafts, and artisan goods.
- Rainbow Mountain Nature Preserve: A scenic area offering hiking trails and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
- Madison Station Historical Park: A park with historical exhibits and a restored train depot, reflecting the city’s railroad history.
- Insanity Skate Park: An indoor-outdoor skatepark and entertainment complex popular with local youth.
Major Highways
Madison is conveniently located near several major highways. Interstate 565 runs east-west through the city, providing direct access to Huntsville and I-65. U.S. Highway 72 runs parallel to I-565 and serves as another key route through the region, connecting Madison to Athens and Florence. Additionally, Alabama State Route 20 provides easy access to local industrial and residential areas.