Alabama is a state with a strong southern heritage – there’s no doubt about that. When many think of historically think of the Deep South, they may not always picture progressive, urban areas. In fact, though, those are perfect ways to describe many sections of Alabama’s biggest cities. While many parts of Alabama do remain rural, several urban areas offer plenty of business and higher education opportunities, thriving arts and culture scenes, beautiful outdoor spaces, and so much to see and do.  If you’re thinking of making a move to Alabama, and you are a part of the LGBTQ community, you’ll find several cities with thriving LGBTQ neighborhoods to choose from. Some of the cities you might want to consider include:

  • Birmingham: As the largest city in Alabama, Birmingham is home to more than a million families – more than a fourth of the state of Alabama’s entire population. While it is a city with a long history, it is also becoming an increasingly progressive one – modern, urbane, and with its own eclectic personality. This city offers a thriving arts and culture scene, plenty of job opportunities, lots of outdoor recreation opportunities, and many good restaurants and nightspots. It’s truly a southern city that offers it all! Read the full Birmingham Gay City Guide here.
  • Montgomery: Montgomery is the capital city of the state of Alabama and is home to more than 370,000 people.  Over the 200 years that it has been a city, it has grown into a thriving center of government, technology, and culture.  It’s also home to several universities, including Alabama State University, Troy University, Faulkner University, and Air University, and is a part of Maxwell Air Force Base where many of the Air Force’s recruits study. Montgomery is an eclectic, welcoming, and vibrant LGBTQ community where all can find their place and feel at home. Read the full Montgomery Gay City Guide.
  • Mobile: Located on the bay of the beautiful Gulf of Mexico, Mobile is widely considered to be one of the cultural centers of the Gold Coast and is known for having several art museums, a symphony orchestra, a professional ballet company and opera, as well as a significant concentration of historical architecture. It’s also well known for having the oldest Carnival or Mardi Gras celebration in the United States. Mobile has a variety of nicknames, including The Port City, Azalea City, and The City of Six Flags. Whatever you call it though, it’s a city that’s vibrant, welcoming and the happy home of a thriving and growing LGBTQ community. Read the full Mobile Gay City Guide here.
  • Huntsville: Huntsville, Alabama, is a part of the larger Huntsville Metropolitan Area and the fourth-largest city in Alabama.  Home to many historic sites and buildings, Huntsville was named one of America’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations for 2010 by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.  While it’s located in the South, a traditionally conservative area, Huntsville does have a growing and thriving LGBTQ community and offers plenty to see and do, as well as several wonderful neighborhoods to choose from. Read more about some of the wonderful neighborhoods in Huntsville here.

After you’ve decided which city in Alabama is the best fit for you, your next step should be to connect with a realtor who knows that city and its neighborhoods well, and who can help you find a home that you will love and enjoy for many years to come. If you’re ready to do exactly that, we have over 2,000 LGBTQ realtors in our extensive network at www.GayRealEstate.com, and we are ready to help! Choose an agent and start a conversation – there is never a cost or obligation. We look forward to helping you find your perfect Alabama home soon!