Pros & Cons of Moving to Huntsville, Alabama

Huntsville is an amazing place to live. So much so that it was ranked the #1 city in the entire US to live in by US News & World Report in 2022.

Like anything in life, there are pros and cons to living in the Rocket City. I  think the pros far outweigh the cons, but I’ll let you decide for yourself as I  give you the information you need to decide if you want to call Huntsville, Sweet Home Alabama!

Pros of Moving to Huntsville, Alabama

Pro #1: Huntsville's Booming Economy & Job Market.

The city is home to several high-tech companies, including NASA, Boeing, and Lockheed Martin, which have brought a lot of job opportunities to the area. The presence of these companies has also created a ripple effect, attracting other businesses and entrepreneurs to the city. This has resulted in a diverse range of industries in Huntsville, including engineering, aerospace, biotech, and manufacturing.

The job market in Huntsville is thriving, with an unemployment rate that is consistently lower than the national average. In fact, the city has been ranked as one of the top places in the country for job growth and economic development.

One of the reasons why Huntsville has such a strong job market is because of the collaboration between the city government, businesses, and educational institutions. There is a strong emphasis on workforce development, and the city has programs and initiatives that aim to attract and retain talent in the area.

Pro #2: Cost of Living in Huntsville, Alabama

Compared to other cities in the U.S., Huntsville has a lower cost of living which allows you to stretch your budget further and enjoy a higher quality of life.

Housing costs in Huntsville are particularly affordable, with a range of options available to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you're looking for a spacious family home, a cozy townhome, or anything in between, you'll find something that fits your needs in Huntsville. In addition, property taxes in Huntsville are also lower than in many other cities, which can help you save money over time.

Other expenses, such as groceries, transportation, and healthcare, are also relatively affordable. This means that your day-to-day expenses are more manageable, leaving you with more money to put towards savings or other things you enjoy.

With affordable housing, low property taxes, and a range of other cost savings, Huntsville offers an excellent opportunity to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.

Pro #3: Arts, Culture, and Food in Huntsville

A rich arts and culture scene has been steadily growing over the years, from museums and galleries to live music and theater, there is something for everyone in Huntsville.

Huntsville is also known as the “Rocket City” and one of the most prominent cultural institutions is the U.S. Space and Rocket Center. This museum features interactive exhibits and displays on space exploration and the history of NASA. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology.

In addition to the Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville also has a thriving arts scene. The Huntsville Museum of Art showcases a range of contemporary and traditional art, while the Lowe Mill Arts & Entertainment center features over 200 working artists in a former textile mill.

Huntsville is also home to several theaters and performance venues, including the Von Braun Center, which hosts concerts, comedy shows, and Broadway performances throughout the year. The Orion Amphitheatre opened in 2022 and is already attracting some of the biggest names in the music industry to perform in Huntsville in front of sold-out shows.

When it comes to food, Huntsville has a diverse and growing culinary scene. The city is known for its barbecue and Southern cuisine, but you'll also find a range of international flavors, from Thai to Mexican to Indian. With a diverse range of culinary experiences and flavors, there's always something new to try and explore in Huntsville.

Pro #4: Outdoor Activities in Huntsville

Huntsville has tons of options when it comes to getting out and exploring the area. Whether you’re looking for hiking, biking, or a day out on the water, we have it all.

Monte Sano State Park is a favorite destination for many residents and offers over 20 miles of hiking trails with stunning views of the valley below. It also offers camping options so you’ll have easy access to all those trails for more leisurely hikes or if you just want to find a quiet spot to relax in your hammock all day. While Monte Sano is one of the most popular outdoor destinations, The Land Trust of North Alabama manages over 7,000 acres of protected land in the area so there isn’t a shortage of new places to discover.

If you’re into biking we have that too! Huntsville has a variety of bike trails, from easy scenic rides to more challenging mountain biking trails. John Hunt Park, the Space & Rocket Center, Monte Sano, and nearby Rainbow Mountain are great for trail riding. If you’re looking for more of a scenic ride, be sure and check out the Indian Creek Greenway or Madison County Nature Trail.

If you’re looking for fun on the water, the Flint River & Tennessee River offer great options for kayak or canoeing. You can also make a short drive to Smith Lake or Guntersville Lake for a day full of tubing, wake surfing, jet skiing, and cliff jumping.

Pro #5: Close to Larger Cities & Beaches

Huntsville is just a few hours away from Atlanta, Nashville, and Birmingham. Whether it’s a day trip or a weekend getaway, you can easily access the cultural attractions, dining, and shopping options that these cities have to offer without having to live in the hustle and bustle.

If you’re someone who loves the beach, you’re going to love the fact some of the best beaches in US are less than a day's drive away. The Gulf Coast offers miles of pristine beaches with crystal-clear waters and white sand. Whether you’re heading to Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, or 30A, you’re going to have a great time soaking up the sunshine!

If you want to head somewhere a little further away, Huntsville International Airport is a well-equipped airport that offers residents easy access to both domestic and international travel options.

Cons of Moving to Huntsville, Alabama

Con #1: Traffic & Infrastructure in Huntsville

While I absolutely love living here, the reality is every place has its cons, the first con to moving to Huntsville is the lack of infrastructure.

You used to be able to get anywhere in the city within 15 min. We’re starting to see longer commute times in the 20 to 30 min range as a result of increased population and businesses moving to the area. Of course, for those of you relocating from large metro areas, you’ll find that the traffic here is much more manageable than in other places.

Some areas commonly experience traffic congestion during peak travel times, this can lead to delays during your commute which can make it difficult to get around efficiently.

Con #2: Severe Weather in Huntsville

Huntsville experiences severe thunderstorms which can bring strong winds, heavy rain, lighting strikes, and a higher risk of tornadoes than in many other parts of the country. These thunderstorms can cause power outages, damage to property, and other hazards. It's important to note that Huntsville does have a robust emergency response system in place to help residents prepare for and respond to severe weather events. But just like living somewhere with hurricanes, floods, or blizzards,  you find ways to prepare and adapt.

Huntsville, Alabama is a great place to call home. If you’re interested in learning more about the area or if you want to visit properties that are for sale in Huntsville or nearby email us at moving@mattcurtisrealestate.com or contact us here.

Tags

• buying a home in huntsville (4)
• pros and cons (1)
• moving to huntsville (1)