8 Towns in Alabama That Are Ideal for Seniors

While you will have to handsomely gift the IRS in other states, Alabama not only boasts some of the lowest property tax rates in the country but also completely exempts Social Security retirement benefits from income taxes. And as far as nature goes, the sugar-white beaches of the Redneck Riviera, and other spots dotted around the state, give Alabama an almost spectacular appeal. Besides, residents here are known to be big-hearted and sunny, an element that will interest those seeking to retire anywhere. If you are looking for suggestions, discover eight Alabama towns that are the most ideal for seniors.

Prichard

Once a major shipbuilding hub (it still is), Prichard is today a much sought-after retirement destination. Features that enhance its retirement appeal include its proximity to Mobile, the second-largest city in Alabama. With downtown Mobile less than 10 minutes away, access to world-class shopping and medical facilities is excellent. Prichard boasts a median age of 36.5. While some will prefer a town swarmed by seniors, Princhard's demographic cuts the sweet spot between youth and age and provides the best of both worlds. Chickasabogue Park features forested paths ideal for strolling or biking, while Meaher State Park, located minutes away, provides exquisite views of the gulf.

Alexandria

If you dream of spending your golden years in a spot where you do not have to worry about crime, in neighborhoods that are quiet and peaceful, and among residents that are warm and welcoming, Alexandria should be top on your list. Trees, gardens, and animals are conspicuous features of this town, and imbue it with a cool, rustic ambiance. Yet, with all its seclusion, Alexandria is not a middle-of-nowhere town. Birmingham, the third-largest city in Alabama, is just about an hour's drive away. Anniston Museum of Natural History, located just 8 miles away (do not miss the Berman Museum next door), for its collection of safari animals and the dinosaur exhibits, is an awesome spot to take grandkids. Besides, this town boasts a median age of 38.8 — and will make you feel young at heart.

Southside

When scoping for a retirement spot, anyone who skips Southside is ignoring the third-safest city in Alabama. Empty-nesters who do not want to be always fretting about their safety or the safety of their property do well to consider this beautiful riverside town. Known to be slow-paced and friendly, Southside sits on the banks of the Coosa River in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. According to Safewise, while the incidence of violent crime in the United States stands at 4 per 1,000 residents, Southside's incidence of violent crime for 2022 was 0.1 per 1,000 residents. Southside is small, though there is a whole lot to do. Still, Gadsden, and its numerous medical facilities, is a mere 12-minute drive away. But if Gadsden will not suffice, "The Magic City," as Birmingham is called, is only about an hour's drive away. As to its social demographic, Southside's median age is just about where life begins — 41 years.

Fairhope

The name itself would make any heart skip a beat. Fairhope, so named because of what the founders termed "a fair hope of success" in establishing it, is still as evocative (perhaps more) as when the followers of the single tax proponent Henry George founded it as a Utopian dream more than a century ago. Retiring where the brisk breeze swirls around the air and where pastel-painted bungalows elicit awe and admiration is a dream best lived. Expect a sparse suburban feel here, in environs where a whopping 83% of residents, according to Niche, are homeowners. Boasting a median age of 42.4 years, the social scene is not raucous as to be offensive — or dull as to be boring. Besides, Fairhope is one of Alabama's safest cities, brimming with medical facilities such as Thomas Hospital, and is only about a 25-minute drive to Mobile.

Florence

Boasting a population of about 40,000, Florence is arguably the main economic hub in northwestern Alabama. It is a perfect retirement spot for those who want to retire in a city — and enjoy the related amenities — while savoring a contradictory small-city life. Home to the University of North Alabama, whose Institute for Learning in Retirement (ILR) allows volunteer seniors to determine courses in a stimulating lifelong learning program, Florence will keep seniors intellectually engaged and active. Besides, for a town its size and with facilities such as North Alabama Medical Center, Florence boasts excellent access to health care. Perhaps because of the presence of college students, this town's median age stands at a high-spirited 35 years. As many might attest, it is hard to grow old in such an environment.

Foley

One of Foley's claims to fame is that it hosts Tanger Outlets, one of the largest outlet malls in The Heart of Dixie. Once in a while, you will enjoy ambling through the delightful variety of stores — or relishing a brunch at a pretty decent food court. With hospitals such as South Baldwin Regional Medical Center, which has been recognized for the Patient Safety Excellence Award as well as the Outstanding Patient Experience Award, Foley scores big on access to health care. As if that is not enough, Pensacola, Florida, and Mobile, Alabama — are just about 30 and 41 miles away, respectively. Boasting a median age of 52.9 years, retiring here will feel like re-uniting with a long-separated family. For beach lovers, Foley is a 10-minute drive to the beach.

Vestavia Hills

At the top of Shades Mountain, part of the Appalachian Mountains — sits Vestavia Hills, a suburb of Birmingham that seems to have cast a lasting spell on retirees. Mostly known for the Temple of Sibyl, a masterpiece inspired by Rome's partially-ruined Temple of Sibyl in Tivoli, one of Vestavia Hills' desirable features is its accessibility. Needless to say, this comes with being part of Alabama's largest metropolitan area. As a senior, you will enjoy top-notch public services here, including excellent recreational programs and medical facilities. Besides, Vestavia Hills boasts safe neighborhoods, family-friendly communities, and numerous parks. The icing is that Vestavia Hills boasts a median age of 40, a demographic known to be somewhat mellowed but still quite lively and witty.

Mountain Brook

Fondly referred to as "the Tiny Kingdom," Mountain Brook is a town that seems to have been plucked from a Hollywood film set. This town occupies a quiet, peaceful enclave and, boasting a median income of about $150,000, is reputed to be the wealthiest in Alabama. Perhaps because of its well-heeled residents, Mountain Brook boasts world-class shopping and dining options. As a senior, you will enjoy an early-morning stroll in Jemison Park and striking random conversations with townmates, 37% of whom hold a master's degree or higher, indicating wit and humor will pepper any exchange. Plus, the fact seniors comprise about 30% of the town's population means one will enjoy a supportive community where peers understand the challenges each other is most likely facing.

For those who are looking for a retirement spot in the South, the Heart of Dixie brims with options that offer peace, seclusion, slow pace, and affordability. Most of these spots provide excellent access to medical care and are not isolated in the middle of nowhere. Prichard, for instance, is less than 10 minutes away from Mobile — while Southside — the third-safest city in Alabama, is only about an hour's drive away from "The Magic City," as Birmingham is fondly referred to. Other fantastic options worth consideration include Alexandria, Fairhope, and Florence.