Originally part of the Mississippi Territory, Alabama became a state in 1819. It played a key role in the Civil War as part of the Confederacy and in the Civil Rights Movement in the 20th century. Alabama has 67 counties.
10 Largest Counties in Alabama
1. Jefferson County
County Facts
- Population: 674,721 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 205, 659
- ZIP Codes: 35005-35299
- County Seat: Birmingham
Geography and History
Jefferson County, situated in north-central Alabama, covers 1,124 square miles, with diverse geography including the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. Birmingham, the largest city, sits in the Jones Valley, a mineral-rich area that contributed to the growth of the steel industry. The county was founded on December 13, 1819, named after Thomas Jefferson. Initially, agriculture was a cornerstone, but it quickly shifted to an industrial economy with the development of iron and steel industries in the late 19th century, helping to drive Birmingham’s growth. As Alabama’s most populous county, Jefferson has experienced waves of economic shifts, from industrial booms to financial restructuring, shaping its diverse community.
Colleges and Universities
- University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB): A major research university known for its medical school.
- Samford University: A private Christian university with a strong liberal arts focus.
- Miles College: A historically black liberal arts college located in Fairfield.
- Birmingham-Southern College: A liberal arts institution known for its undergraduate programs.
Major Landmarks
Jefferson County is home to many significant landmarks, including the Vulcan Park and Museum, featuring the world’s largest cast iron statue. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute commemorates the county’s pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement, while Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark reflecting its industrial heritage. Red Mountain Park offers hiking trails and historical insight into the area’s mining past. Alabama Theatre and Regions Field, home of the Birmingham Barons baseball team, are cultural highlights.
2. Mobile County
County Facts
- Population: 414,809 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 251
- ZIP Codes: 36571-36695
- County Seat: Mobile
Geography and History
Mobile County, located in the southwestern corner of Alabama, is bordered by the Gulf of Mexico, giving it a coastal geography with marshlands, rivers, and beaches. Founded in 1812, Mobile is one of Alabama’s oldest cities and was initially settled by French colonists in 1702. The region’s proximity to the coast made it a crucial port city, contributing to its historical significance in trade and military operations. The county played a vital role during the Civil War, particularly during the Battle of Mobile Bay. Today, Mobile remains a hub of commerce, shipbuilding, and culture, retaining much of its colonial and antebellum architecture.
Colleges and Universities
- University of South Alabama (USA): A public research university offering a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Spring Hill College: A private, Jesuit Catholic college known for liberal arts and pre-professional programs.
- Bishop State Community College: A two-year institution focused on vocational training and technical education.
- University of Mobile: A private Baptist university offering various undergraduate and graduate programs.
Major Landmarks
Mobile County boasts historical landmarks such as Fort Conde, a reconstruction of a French fort from the 1700s. USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park features the World War II battleship USS Alabama and other military artifacts. Historic Oakleigh House highlights antebellum architecture, while the Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center draws visitors interested in science and technology. The Dauphin Island Sea Lab and Mobile Museum of Art are additional cultural attractions.
3. Madison County
County Facts
- Population: 388,153 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 256, 938
- ZIP Codes: 35741-35899
- County Seat: Huntsville
Geography and History
Madison County lies in the northern region of Alabama, with the Tennessee River bordering its southern end. Its geography includes rolling hills and fertile valleys. Founded in 1808, Madison County is known for its pivotal role in space exploration. Huntsville, the county seat, became a central player in NASA’s space missions during the 1960s, earning the nickname “Rocket City.” The area was originally developed for cotton plantations but shifted towards technology and research industries due to the presence of the Redstone Arsenal and Marshall Space Flight Center.
Colleges and Universities
- University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH): A research-intensive university with strengths in engineering and space sciences.
- Alabama A&M University: A historically black university known for its agricultural and mechanical programs.
- Oakwood University: A private, historically black Seventh-day Adventist institution.
- Calhoun Community College: A two-year institution offering vocational and technical programs.
Major Landmarks
Madison County is home to the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, featuring exhibits on space exploration and the Saturn V rocket. Monte Sano State Park offers hiking and scenic views of the Appalachian foothills. The Huntsville Botanical Garden and the Burritt on the Mountain museum reflect the area’s natural beauty and history. Big Spring International Park in downtown Huntsville is a popular gathering spot and the site of many festivals.
4. Montgomery County
County Facts
- Population: 228,991 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 334
- ZIP Codes: 36013-36191
- County Seat: Montgomery
Geography and History
Montgomery County, located in central Alabama, sits along the Alabama River, providing fertile land for agriculture. Established in 1816, Montgomery is historically significant as the first capital of the Confederate States of America and later as a key city in the Civil Rights Movement. The Montgomery Bus Boycott and Selma to Montgomery marches both played pivotal roles in the fight for equality. As the state capital, Montgomery’s rich history is interwoven with its political and cultural significance, from early 19th-century plantations to modern civil rights struggles.
Colleges and Universities
- Alabama State University: A historically black university known for its strong programs in education and the arts.
- Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM): A branch of Auburn University, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Faulkner University: A private Christian university known for its law school and liberal arts programs.
- Huntingdon College: A private liberal arts college affiliated with the United Methodist Church.
Major Landmarks
Montgomery County features notable landmarks such as the Alabama State Capitol, a symbol of both Confederate and Civil Rights history. The Rosa Parks Museum and the Civil Rights Memorial pay tribute to the city’s pivotal role in the movement. Old Alabama Town showcases 19th-century architecture, while the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church was where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. served as pastor. Riverfront Park offers scenic views along the Alabama River, and Blount Cultural Park is home to the Alabama Shakespeare Festival.
5. Tuscaloosa County
County Facts
- Population: 227,036 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 205
- ZIP Codes: 35401-35487
- County Seat: Tuscaloosa
Geography and History
Tuscaloosa County is located in western Alabama, with the Black Warrior River running through it. The county was established in 1818 and named after the Choctaw Chief Tuskaloosa. Initially an agricultural center, Tuscaloosa grew into an educational and industrial hub due to the presence of the University of Alabama. The county has seen significant development, transitioning from its plantation-based economy to modern manufacturing and education.
Colleges and Universities
- University of Alabama: The state’s flagship university, known for its law school, engineering programs, and Crimson Tide football team.
- Shelton State Community College: Offers vocational training, associate degrees, and technical certifications.
- Stillman College: A historically black liberal arts college offering a variety of undergraduate programs.
Major Landmarks
Key landmarks in Tuscaloosa County include the University of Alabama’s Bryant-Denny Stadium, a central hub for college football fans. The Paul W. Bryant Museum celebrates the legendary coach’s career. Moundville Archaeological Park offers insight into pre-Columbian Native American civilizations. Lake Tuscaloosa provides outdoor recreation opportunities, and the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk is a scenic attraction along the Black Warrior River.
This pattern can continue for the next five largest counties: Baldwin County, Shelby County, Lee County, Morgan County, and Limestone County.
Each section will contain:
- County Facts
- Geography and History
- Colleges and Universities
- Major Landmarks
6. Baldwin County
County Facts
- Population: 239,294 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 251
- ZIP Codes: 36507-36789
- County Seat: Bay Minette
Geography and History
Baldwin County, located in the southwestern corner of Alabama, is the largest county by area in the state, covering 2,027 square miles. The county’s geography is shaped by its coastal proximity, featuring beaches, rivers, and bayous. It borders Mobile Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, giving it a diverse landscape with wetlands and forested areas. Established in 1809, Baldwin County has a rich history tied to European colonization. It was contested territory between the French, Spanish, British, and Americans. The county grew as a center for agriculture, particularly in timber, seafood, and farming, and is now one of Alabama’s fastest-growing counties due to tourism and development along the Gulf Coast.
Colleges and Universities
- Coastal Alabama Community College: Offers a variety of associate degrees and vocational programs.
- Faulkner State Community College: A division of Coastal Alabama Community College, focusing on technical training and liberal arts.
- University of South Alabama Baldwin County Campus: A smaller satellite campus offering upper-level courses and community engagement programs.
Major Landmarks
Baldwin County’s landmarks are closely tied to its coastal beauty and historical significance. Gulf State Park features miles of pristine beaches and hiking trails, while Fort Morgan is a historic fort that played a role in the Battle of Mobile Bay during the Civil War. Fairhope Pier offers panoramic views of Mobile Bay, and Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve is a protected area for wildlife. Additionally, Bellingrath Gardens and Home is a historic estate known for its lush gardens, and Historic Blakeley State Park preserves the site of Alabama’s last Civil War battle.
7. Shelby County
County Facts
- Population: 223,024 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 205
- ZIP Codes: 35007-35244
- County Seat: Columbiana
Geography and History
Shelby County is located in central Alabama, just southeast of Birmingham. The county covers 810 square miles and is characterized by its rolling hills, rivers, and reservoirs, such as Lay Lake and the Cahaba River. Established in 1818, Shelby County’s early economy was driven by agriculture and iron production, benefiting from its natural resources and proximity to Birmingham’s industrial areas. Over time, the county developed into a suburban and recreational area, attracting residents for its scenic beauty and proximity to urban centers. Today, Shelby County is one of the fastest-growing counties in the state.
Colleges and Universities
- Jefferson State Community College Shelby-Hoover Campus: Offers a wide range of associate degrees and technical certifications.
- University of Montevallo: A public liberal arts university known for its strong arts programs and historical significance as one of the oldest institutions in the state.
Major Landmarks
Shelby County features diverse landmarks such as Oak Mountain State Park, the largest state park in Alabama, offering hiking, camping, and outdoor activities. American Village in Montevallo is a unique historical site where visitors can learn about American history and civic engagement. Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum showcases Alabama’s rail history, and Helena Amphitheater hosts outdoor events and festivals. The Aldrich Coal Mine Museum reflects the county’s industrial past, and the Cahaba River National Wildlife Refuge protects the natural habitat of Alabama’s longest free-flowing river.
8. Lee County
County Facts
- Population: 174,241 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 334
- ZIP Codes: 36801-36879
- County Seat: Opelika
Geography and History
Lee County is located in east-central Alabama, along the Alabama-Georgia border. The county covers 616 square miles, with rolling plains and sections of the Chattahoochee River running through it. Founded in 1866, Lee County is named after Confederate General Robert E. Lee. Historically, the region’s economy relied on agriculture and textile manufacturing. The area grew significantly with the founding of Auburn University, which transformed the county into an educational and cultural center. The university’s presence fostered growth in industries, research, and commerce, making it one of the most vibrant areas in the state.
Colleges and Universities
- Auburn University: One of Alabama’s largest public universities, known for its engineering, veterinary, and business programs.
- Southern Union State Community College: Offers associate degrees and vocational training with campuses in Opelika and Valley.
Major Landmarks
Lee County is famous for Jordan-Hare Stadium, home to Auburn University’s football team, and the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art on campus. Chewacla State Park offers outdoor recreation with waterfalls and hiking trails. Toomer’s Corner in downtown Auburn is a local tradition for celebrating university victories. Opelika’s Historic Railroad Avenue District showcases the county’s rich rail history, while the Grand National Golf Course is part of Alabama’s Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail.
9. Morgan County
County Facts
- Population: 123,421 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 256, 938
- ZIP Codes: 35601-35673
- County Seat: Decatur
Geography and History
Morgan County is located in north-central Alabama along the Tennessee River, covering 599 square miles. The county’s terrain includes riverside plains and ridges, making it agriculturally rich. Founded in 1818 as Cotaco County, it was renamed in honor of Revolutionary War hero Daniel Morgan in 1821. Decatur, the largest city, became a vital transportation hub due to its river location, fostering growth in railroads and industries such as cotton and shipping. Morgan County’s history is marked by its role in both the Civil War and the development of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA).
Colleges and Universities
- Calhoun Community College: The largest two-year college in Alabama, offering a wide range of associate degrees and technical programs.
- Athens State University: Located nearby in Limestone County but serves many Morgan County residents, offering upper-division courses and degrees.
Major Landmarks
Morgan County’s major landmarks include the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, which protects thousands of acres of wetland habitat along the Tennessee River. Point Mallard Park offers a waterpark, golf course, and hiking trails. Old State Bank in Decatur is a preserved antebellum building reflecting the county’s history. The Cook Museum of Natural Science features exhibits on the local environment and wildlife. Additionally, the Decatur Depot is a historic rail station turned museum.
10. Limestone County
County Facts
- Population: 104,322 (2020 Census)
- Area Codes: 256, 938
- ZIP Codes: 35611-35739
- County Seat: Athens
Geography and History
Limestone County is situated in the northernmost part of Alabama, along the Tennessee River, covering 607 square miles. The county’s geography is characterized by fertile plains, making it ideal for agriculture. Established in 1818, the county has a deep agricultural tradition, primarily producing cotton and livestock. The arrival of the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) and subsequent industrial development reshaped the economy in the 20th century, boosting growth in sectors like automotive manufacturing. Its proximity to Huntsville has also contributed to rapid suburban growth.
Colleges and Universities
- Athens State University: The state’s oldest public university, offering upper-level undergraduate and graduate degrees with a focus on teacher education and business.
- Calhoun Community College: Nearby, providing technical training and associate degrees to many Limestone County residents.
Major Landmarks
Limestone County’s landmarks include Athens Courthouse Square, which hosts several historic buildings. The Alabama Veterans Museum in Athens commemorates the county’s military history, while Elk River offers outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking. Limestone County Archives preserves historical documents, and Fort Henderson is a significant Civil War site. The Athens Grease Festival celebrates southern food culture with a quirky flair, attracting visitors to the county.