20 Worst Places To Live in Alabama: A Comprehensive Ranking Based on Quality of Life Factors
Alabama offers diverse landscapes and communities, from bustling cities to quiet rural areas.
Like any state, it has locations that may present challenges for residents due to various factors.
This article examines 20 places in Alabama that face notable difficulties in terms of quality of life, economic opportunities, or other key metrics.
The rankings consider data on crime rates, education, employment, cost of living, and other relevant indicators.
By analyzing these locations objectively, readers can gain insight into areas that may require improvement or careful consideration before relocating.
1. Albertville
Albertville, a city in Marshall County, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The town’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants.
Economic opportunities in Albertville are limited, with a higher unemployment rate than the state average. Many residents struggle to find well-paying jobs, leading to financial hardships for some families.
The education system in Albertville has room for improvement. Local schools perform below state averages in standardized tests, potentially affecting students’ future prospects.
Albertville’s infrastructure needs attention, with some roads and public facilities requiring maintenance or upgrades. This can lead to inconveniences for residents and may deter new businesses from settling in the area.
The city’s limited recreational and cultural amenities leave residents with fewer options for entertainment and personal enrichment compared to larger urban centers in Alabama.
2. Gadsden
Gadsden, located in Etowah County, Alabama, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, exceeding both state and national averages.
Economic issues plague Gadsden, with limited job opportunities and a median household income below the state average. This financial strain affects many aspects of daily life for its inhabitants.
Education in Gadsden presents another concern. The city’s schools generally underperform compared to other districts in Alabama, potentially hindering students’ future prospects.
Gadsden’s infrastructure shows signs of aging and neglect in some areas. Outdated roads and public facilities can make daily life less convenient for residents.
The city also grapples with environmental concerns, including air quality issues stemming from its industrial past. These factors contribute to health risks for some community members.
3. Prichard
Prichard, a city in Mobile County, Alabama, faces significant challenges. The city’s population has steadily declined over the years, dropping from over 45,000 in the 1960s to around 20,000 today.
High crime rates plague Prichard, with violent and property crimes occurring at rates well above the national average. This has contributed to a sense of insecurity among residents.
Economic struggles are prevalent in Prichard. The city has a high unemployment rate and a median household income significantly lower than the state average.
Educational opportunities in Prichard are limited. The local school system has faced difficulties, including low test scores and graduation rates.
Infrastructure issues are apparent throughout the city. Many roads and public facilities are in need of repair or modernization.
The city has also grappled with financial mismanagement in the past, leading to periods of municipal bankruptcy and reduced public services.
4. Phenix City
Phenix City, located in eastern Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city has struggled with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes, which can make residents feel unsafe.
Economic opportunities in Phenix City are limited, with a higher unemployment rate compared to the state average. This lack of job prospects can lead to financial instability for many residents.
The education system in Phenix City has room for improvement. Some schools in the area have lower test scores and graduation rates than the state average, potentially affecting students’ future prospects.
Phenix City’s infrastructure also presents issues. Some areas of the city have aging roads and utilities, which can lead to frequent maintenance problems and inconveniences for residents.
The city’s limited recreational and cultural amenities may leave some residents feeling there’s a lack of entertainment options. This can contribute to a reduced quality of life for those seeking diverse activities and experiences.
5. Fairfield
Fairfield, a city in Jefferson County, Alabama, faces numerous challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s population has been steadily declining over the years, reflecting its struggles to retain residents.
Crime rates in Fairfield are a significant concern for those living in the area. The city experiences higher than average crime levels compared to other parts of Alabama and the United States.
Economic issues plague Fairfield, with limited job opportunities and a struggling local economy. The closure of several businesses has left many residents unemployed and searching for work elsewhere.
Education in Fairfield also presents challenges. The local school system has faced difficulties in recent years, with lower test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages.
Infrastructure in Fairfield has seen better days. Many roads and public buildings are in need of repair or renovation, contributing to a general sense of decline in the city.
6. Talladega
Talladega, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising concerns about safety for residents and visitors alike.
Economically, Talladega struggles with limited job opportunities. The unemployment rate remains higher than the state average, making it difficult for some residents to find stable employment.
Education in Talladega presents another hurdle. The public school system performs below state standards, potentially affecting students’ academic progress and future prospects.
The city’s infrastructure needs improvement. Many roads and public facilities require maintenance or upgrades, impacting daily life for residents.
Talladega’s population has been declining in recent years. This trend can lead to reduced funding for public services and fewer amenities for those who remain in the area.
7. Anniston
Anniston, located in Calhoun County, Alabama, faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city has struggled with environmental contamination from a former chemical plant, leading to health concerns for its population.
Crime rates in Anniston exceed state and national averages, contributing to safety issues for inhabitants. The city’s economy has declined since the closure of Fort McClellan in 1999, resulting in limited job opportunities and economic stagnation.
Education in Anniston presents another obstacle, with public schools performing below state standards. This affects students’ academic prospects and the city’s ability to attract new residents and businesses.
Anniston’s population has steadily decreased over recent decades, reflecting the difficulties faced by the community. The city’s infrastructure shows signs of aging, with limited funds for maintenance and improvements.
8. Bessemer
Bessemer, a city in Jefferson County, Alabama, faces significant challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a high crime rate, which is consistently above the national average. This contributes to a sense of insecurity among residents.
The local economy in Bessemer has been in decline for years. Many manufacturing jobs have disappeared, leading to high unemployment rates. This economic downturn has negatively affected property values and local businesses.
Education is another area of concern in Bessemer. The city’s public schools have lower test scores and graduation rates compared to state averages. This can limit opportunities for young residents and make the area less attractive to families.
Bessemer also grapples with aging infrastructure. Many roads and public facilities are in need of repairs or upgrades. This can affect the quality of life for residents and deter potential new businesses from setting up in the area.
9. Selma
Selma, Alabama faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city struggles with a high crime rate, ranking among the most dangerous in the state. Violent crimes and property offenses occur at rates well above the national average.
Economic issues plague Selma, with a poverty rate exceeding 40%. Many residents struggle to make ends meet due to limited job opportunities and low wages. The unemployment rate remains consistently higher than state and national averages.
Educational outcomes in Selma’s public schools lag behind state standards. Test scores and graduation rates fall below Alabama averages, potentially hindering students’ future prospects.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of neglect, with deteriorating roads and aging public facilities. Access to quality healthcare is limited, as Selma lacks sufficient medical facilities and specialists to serve its population adequately.
10. Decatur
Decatur, Alabama faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for residents.
Economic issues persist in Decatur, with a median household income below the state average. This contributes to financial difficulties for many families in the area.
Air quality problems have been reported in Decatur due to industrial emissions. This environmental concern may affect the health and well-being of local inhabitants.
The city’s education system has room for improvement, with some schools underperforming compared to state standards. This can limit opportunities for students and impact the community’s future prospects.
Decatur’s limited recreational options and cultural amenities may leave residents wanting more diverse entertainment choices. This lack of variety can detract from the overall quality of life in the city.
11. Opelika
Opelika, located in Lee County, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city struggles with a higher crime rate compared to the national average, raising safety concerns for residents.
Economic issues also plague Opelika. The unemployment rate exceeds the state average, limiting job opportunities for locals. This contributes to a lower median household income, making it difficult for some families to make ends meet.
Education in Opelika presents another area of concern. The public school system has lower test scores and graduation rates than many other districts in Alabama. This can affect students’ future prospects and the overall quality of life in the community.
The city’s infrastructure needs improvement. Some roads and public facilities show signs of wear and tear, indicating a need for better maintenance and investment in public works projects.
12. Tuskegee
Tuskegee, Alabama faces significant economic challenges. The city’s poverty rate stands well above the national average, impacting many residents’ quality of life.
Employment opportunities in Tuskegee are limited. The local job market struggles to provide sufficient positions for its workforce, leading to high unemployment rates.
Crime rates in Tuskegee exceed state averages. This contributes to safety concerns among residents and potential newcomers.
The city’s infrastructure requires improvement. Some roads and public facilities show signs of neglect, affecting daily life for inhabitants.
Educational outcomes in Tuskegee’s public schools lag behind state standards. This impacts students’ future prospects and the community’s overall development.
Tuskegee’s population has declined in recent years. This trend reflects the city’s ongoing struggles to retain residents and attract new ones.
13. Jacksonville
Jacksonville, Alabama faces several challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants.
Limited job opportunities in Jacksonville contribute to economic difficulties for many residents. The local economy struggles to provide diverse employment options, leading some to seek work elsewhere.
Education in Jacksonville has room for improvement. While Jacksonville State University is located here, the city’s public schools perform below state averages in various metrics.
Jacksonville’s infrastructure requires attention. Some roads and public facilities are in need of repairs or upgrades, affecting daily life for residents.
The city lacks robust public transportation options, making it challenging for those without personal vehicles to get around efficiently. This limitation can impact access to jobs, healthcare, and other essential services.
14. Sheffield
Sheffield, Alabama faces significant economic challenges. The city has struggled with a declining population and job losses in recent years.
Unemployment rates in Sheffield exceed state averages. Many residents contend with limited job opportunities and lower incomes compared to surrounding areas.
Crime rates in Sheffield are higher than state and national averages. Property crime is a particular concern for residents and businesses.
The city’s aging infrastructure requires updates and repairs. Some roads and public facilities have fallen into disrepair due to budget constraints.
Sheffield’s public schools perform below state averages on standardized tests. This educational gap may impact students’ future prospects.
The city offers few amenities and entertainment options compared to larger urban centers. Residents often travel to nearby cities for shopping and recreation.
15. Childersburg
Childersburg, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its residents’ quality of life. The town struggles with a high crime rate, particularly property crimes, which creates safety concerns for its inhabitants.
Economic opportunities in Childersburg are limited, leading to a higher-than-average unemployment rate. This lack of job prospects contributes to financial hardship for many residents.
The education system in Childersburg has room for improvement. Local schools face funding issues and struggle to provide the resources necessary for optimal student achievement.
Childersburg’s infrastructure is aging and in need of updates. Roads, public facilities, and utilities require attention, affecting the daily lives of residents.
The town’s limited recreational and cultural amenities leave residents with few options for entertainment and personal enrichment. This lack of activities can impact community engagement and overall satisfaction.
16. Centerville
Centerville, Alabama faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The small town’s economy struggles with limited job opportunities and a lack of diverse industries.
Poverty rates in Centerville exceed state averages, affecting many households. This economic hardship contributes to underfunded public services and infrastructure issues.
Education in Centerville also presents concerns. Local schools struggle with resource limitations and below-average test scores compared to other Alabama districts.
The town’s remote location adds to its difficulties. Residents often travel long distances for shopping, healthcare, and entertainment options not available locally.
Crime rates in Centerville are higher than in many comparable Alabama towns. This affects residents’ sense of safety and community well-being.
17. Fort Payne
Fort Payne, located in DeKalb County, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s economy has struggled since the decline of its once-thriving hosiery industry.
Unemployment rates in Fort Payne tend to be higher than the state average. This economic instability has led to limited job opportunities for residents.
The city’s infrastructure shows signs of wear, with some roads and public facilities in need of repair or renovation. This can affect the quality of life for those living in the area.
Fort Payne’s educational system faces challenges, with some schools performing below state averages. This may be a concern for families with school-age children.
The city has limited entertainment and cultural offerings compared to larger urban areas in Alabama. Residents may find fewer options for leisure activities and dining experiences.
18. Jasper
Jasper, Alabama faces significant challenges that impact residents’ quality of life. The city’s crime rate exceeds the national average, raising safety concerns for its inhabitants.
Economic opportunities in Jasper are limited, with a higher unemployment rate compared to many other Alabama cities. This lack of job prospects can lead to financial instability for residents.
The education system in Jasper struggles to meet standards, potentially affecting students’ future prospects. Test scores and graduation rates fall below state averages.
Healthcare access is another issue in Jasper. The city has fewer medical facilities and specialists compared to larger urban areas in Alabama.
Recreational options are also limited in Jasper. Residents may find fewer entertainment venues and cultural attractions compared to more populous cities in the state.
19. Arab
Arab, a small city in Marshall County, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its livability. The city’s economy relies heavily on manufacturing and retail, leaving it vulnerable to economic downturns.
Arab struggles with limited job opportunities, which can lead to higher unemployment rates compared to other parts of the state. The lack of diverse career options may drive younger residents to seek employment elsewhere.
The city’s infrastructure requires improvements, particularly in areas such as road maintenance and public transportation. These issues can affect residents’ daily commutes and access to essential services.
Arab’s educational system, while adequate, may not offer the same range of programs and resources found in larger Alabama cities. This can potentially impact students’ academic and extracurricular opportunities.
The city’s relatively small size means fewer entertainment and cultural amenities compared to more populous areas. Residents may need to travel to nearby cities for a wider variety of recreational activities and events.
20. Opp
Opp, a small city in Covington County, Alabama, faces several challenges that impact its residents’ quality of life. The city’s population has been declining steadily over the past few decades, affecting local businesses and community vitality.
Economic opportunities in Opp are limited, with a higher unemployment rate compared to the state average. This lack of job prospects has led many younger residents to seek opportunities elsewhere, contributing to the population decline.
The city struggles with an aging infrastructure, including roads and public facilities that require significant upgrades. This has resulted in increased maintenance costs for the local government and potential safety concerns for residents.
Opp’s educational system faces difficulties in attracting and retaining qualified teachers, potentially impacting the quality of education available to students. The limited recreational and cultural amenities in the area may also contribute to a less vibrant community atmosphere.
Economic Challenges
Alabama faces significant economic hurdles that impact residents’ quality of life. These challenges manifest in high unemployment and an unstable job market across many parts of the state.
Unemployment Rates
Alabama’s unemployment rate exceeds the national average in several counties. Rural areas are particularly affected, with some experiencing jobless rates over 10%. Perry County consistently ranks among the highest, with unemployment reaching 9.8% in recent years.
Urban centers also struggle. Birmingham, the state’s largest city, has pockets of high unemployment in certain neighborhoods. The disparity between affluent suburbs and inner-city areas is stark.
Factors contributing to high unemployment include:
- Decline of traditional industries
- Limited job training programs
- Lack of public transportation in rural areas
Job Market Instability
Alabama’s job market faces ongoing instability. The state’s reliance on manufacturing makes it vulnerable to economic downturns and outsourcing. Several major plant closures in recent years have left thousands without work.
Key issues affecting job stability:
- Automation threatening low-skill positions
- Limited diversification in local economies
- Seasonal fluctuations in agriculture and tourism sectors
The gig economy has grown, but often provides inconsistent income and few benefits. Many workers juggle multiple part-time jobs to make ends meet.
Rural communities struggle to attract new businesses. Limited infrastructure and a shrinking workforce make economic development challenging in these areas.
Quality of Life Concerns
Several Alabama cities face challenges that impact residents’ daily lives and overall well-being. These issues range from limited access to healthcare services to elevated crime rates in certain areas.
Healthcare Accessibility
Many Alabama communities struggle with inadequate healthcare facilities. Rural areas often lack nearby hospitals or specialty clinics, forcing residents to travel long distances for medical care. This can be particularly problematic for elderly individuals or those with chronic conditions.
Some cities have shortages of primary care physicians and specialists. This leads to longer wait times for appointments and reduced quality of care. Mental health services are also limited in many areas, leaving those with psychological needs underserved.
Emergency medical services can be slow to respond in certain regions due to understaffing or large coverage areas. This poses risks for residents during life-threatening situations.
Crime Rates
Several Alabama cities grapple with high crime rates, affecting residents’ safety and peace of mind. Property crimes such as burglary and theft are common issues in urban areas. Violent crimes, including assault and robbery, occur at concerning rates in some neighborhoods.
Drug-related offenses contribute significantly to criminal activity in certain communities. This often leads to increased gang presence and associated violence. Some cities struggle with understaffed police departments, hindering effective crime prevention and response.
High-crime areas typically see lower property values and decreased economic opportunities. This can create a cycle of poverty and crime that’s difficult to break. Community policing initiatives have shown promise in some locations, but challenges persist in many Alabama cities.
Educational Opportunities
Alabama faces significant challenges in its educational landscape. The state struggles with low academic performance and limited access to quality higher education options in many areas.
Public School Performance
Alabama’s public school system ranks among the lowest in the nation. Test scores in math and reading fall below national averages across most grade levels. Many schools lack adequate funding, resulting in outdated materials and facilities. Teacher shortages plague numerous districts, especially in rural areas.
Graduation rates hover around 90%, but college readiness remains a concern. Only about 20% of high school graduates meet ACT college readiness benchmarks in all four core subjects.
Higher Education Institutions
Alabama is home to several well-regarded universities, including the University of Alabama and Auburn University. These institutions offer strong programs in engineering, business, and sciences.
However, access to higher education is uneven across the state. Many rural areas lack nearby college options. Community colleges aim to fill this gap but face funding challenges.
Student debt is a growing issue. The average Alabama graduate leaves college with over $30,000 in loans. This financial burden often limits economic mobility for young professionals entering the workforce.