We’ve covered what makes Alabama’s largest cities special, but now let’s shine the spotlight on a few cities that, according to Home Snacks, are quickly growing and making a name for themselves. Here’s part one of your guide to Alabama’s fastest-growing cities.
1. Pike Road
- Year Founded: 1997
- Population: 9,320
- Population Growth (2010-2021): 83.8%
- About: Pike Road was first established as a farming settlement back in the early 1800s. Today, Pike Road boasts a new Town Hall, several family-friendly neighborhoods, and even its own schools.
- Attractions: Visiting SweetCreek Farm Market is a must if you happen to find yourself in Pike Road. We also suggest stopping by Veterans Park, home to the Pike Road Veterans Memorial and Walk of Honor.
- Fun Fact: The city is called Pike Road because it was once the site of a toll road that people had to pay a “pike,” or a toll, to travel on.
2. Chelsea
- Year Founded: 1996
- Population: 13,908
- Population Growth: 42.3%
- About: Originally known as Melrose, the City of Chelsea succeeded as a railroad town during the early 1900s. Today, it’s considered a thriving suburb of Birmingham.
- Attractions: If you love wine, you should schedule a private tour and tasting experience at Cat-n-Bird Winery while you’re in Chelsea.
- Fun Fact: There are over two hundred homes constructed each year in Chelsea.
3. Fairhope
- Year Founded: 1894
- Population: 22, 477
- Population Growth: 41.2%
- About: Due to its beautiful coastal location, Fairhope was a popular place for artists and celebrities, such as Upton Sinclair and Clarence Darrow, to visit in the early 1900s. Fairhope now operates as a quickly growing suburb of Mobile.
- Attractions: If you’re into fishing, or even just sightseeing, make sure to visit the Fairhope Municipal Pier when you’re in town. Downtown Fairhope is another great place to visit if you’re in the mood for shopping and dining. Don’t forget to stop by the Fairhope Museum of History to learn more about the area.
- Fun Fact: Singer and songwriter Jimmy Buffett lived in Fairhope when he was younger.
4. Foley
- Year Founded: 1915
- Population: 18,533
- Population Growth: 36.6%
- About: Foley was founded in the early 1900s and originally thrived as a railroad town. Today, it’s quickly growing and continues to thrive thanks to its prime location and its strong economy.
- Attractions: One of Foley’s biggest attractions is shopping at the Tanger Outlets. If you’re looking for family-friendly fun, take some time to visit the theme park at OWA. The Foley Railroad Museum is another cool place to visit if you’re interested in learning more about railroads and their role in Foley’s history.
- Fun Fact: Foley was named for its founder, John B. Foley of Chicago.
5. Gulf Shores
Year Founded: 1958
- Population: 12,267
- Population Growth: 35.8%
- About: Gulf Shores is situated directly on the Gulf of Mexico. From the 1930s to the 1970s, Gulf Shores’ success largely depended on shrimping, oystering, and fishing. The area’s biggest draw today is its iconic white, sandy beaches. A large portion of the current economy depends on tourism, which makes sense when you consider that hundreds of thousands of tourists visit during the summer months.
- Attractions: If you’re visiting Gulf Shores, you have to check out the beaches at Gulf State Park. Make sure to walk out on the pier while you’re there! The Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo is a great spot to visit if you’re looking for something fun for the whole family to do. During summer, there’s tons to do at Waterville USA.
- Fun Fact: LuLu’s at Homeport Marina in Gulf Shores is owned by Jimmy Buffett’s sister.