Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Centre, AL
Centre, AL offers small-town living with a population of 3,587, affordable home prices around $156,000, and average rents at $780. Residents enjoy a low cost of living, moderate commutes of about 25 minutes, and a friendly community atmosphere. While property crime is higher than average, the city boasts warm, sunny weather and access to local schools and healthcare. Centre is an inviting option for those seeking value in a scenic Alabama setting.
Demographics - Centre, AL
Demographics - Centre, AL
Centre, AL is a close-knit community of about 3,600 residents, with a median age of 44 and a population density that allows for a small-town feel. The city is predominantly White, with a mix of other ethnic backgrounds contributing to its welcoming atmosphere. A modest proportion of non-English speakers adds some cultural diversity to the area.
Population:
3,587
Density:
450 per sq mi
Median Age:
44.2
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.5%
Ethnic Composition
White:
84.1%
Black:
11.4%
Asian:
0.6%
Others:
3.9%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Centre, AL?
Centre features a notably affordable cost of living, with median home values around $156,000 and average rents at $780, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious residents. Everyday expenses, such as groceries and healthcare, are generally below national averages, while utilities are slightly higher. State income tax rates are relatively low, further supporting a cost-effective lifestyle.
Median House Value:
$156,000
Gross Rent:
$780
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,050
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$970
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$365
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
77.6
Grocery:
93.1
Housing:
54.2
Utilities:
104.5
Transportation:
78.3
Health Care:
92.1
Miscellaneous:
88.7
Crime
Is Centre, AL a safe place to live?
While Centre maintains a relatively low violent crime rate, property crime is somewhat higher, with a 1 in 48 chance of experiencing property-related incidents. The community remains attentive to safety, and most residents find it easy to enjoy everyday life with reasonable precautions. Overall, crime rates are in line with many small Alabama towns.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
340
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,070
Crime Index:
2,410
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 294
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 48
Weather
What is the weather like in Centre, AL year-round?
Centre enjoys a mild climate, with warm summers reaching up to 90°F and winters that rarely dip below freezing. The city experiences generous rainfall at nearly 55 inches annually and sees sunshine more than 60% of the year, perfect for outdoor activities. Seasonal changes are distinct, offering a comfortable living environment year-round.
Winter
Min:
31°F
Max:
54°F
Spring
Min:
48°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
90°F
Fall
Min:
51°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
54.8 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
61%
Neighbors
Residents of Centre benefit from a friendly, small-town vibe, with median household incomes around $42,000 and a poverty rate of 19%. Most adults have at least a high school diploma, and the average commute is about 25 minutes, making for easy access to local amenities. Public transportation is limited, so most people rely on personal vehicles.
Median Income:
$27,900
Household Income:
$42,460
Family Income:
$50,200
Per Capita Income:
$21,500
Income Male:
$38,400
Income Female:
$31,700
Poverty Rate:
19.3%
Non English Speakers:
3.5%
Rent:
$780
Unemployment Rate:
4.0%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
24.7 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.7%
Bachelors or More:
14.2%
Education
How are the schools in Centre, AL?
Centre provides solid educational options, including public schools like Centre Elementary and Cherokee County High, both with student bodies of around 500–570 and favorable student-teacher ratios. Higher education is easily accessible through Gadsden State Community College in town and Jacksonville State University just a short drive away. The community values education, with most adults holding at least a high school diploma.
Public Schools
Name:
Centre Elementary School
Street:
725 Cherokee County Rd 22
Phone:
256-927-1735
Students:
570
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.5
Name:
Cherokee County High School
Street:
910 Warrior Dr
Phone:
256-927-3564
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.0
Colleges
Name:
Gadsden State Community College - Cherokee
City:
Centre
State:
AL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
600
Name:
Jacksonville State University
City:
Jacksonville
State:
AL
Distance:
32 miles
Students:
9,200
Healthcare
Centre is served by Cherokee Medical Center, providing general and emergency care to the community. With nearly two physicians per 1,000 residents and close to 90% health insurance coverage, healthcare access is convenient and reliable. The city’s healthcare index reflects solid local medical services for residents.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Cherokee Medical Center
Address:
400 Northwood Dr, Centre, AL 35960
Phone:
(256) 927-1311
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.9
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.5%
Health Care Index:
67.8
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Centre, AL?
The local housing market is marked by affordable prices, with a median home cost of $156,000 and an owner-occupancy rate of over 66%. Rental options are available at an average of $780 for a two-bedroom, and vacancy rates remain moderate. Modest home appreciation and low foreclosure rates make Centre an appealing choice for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$156,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$780
Owner Occupied Rate:
66.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
7.2%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.2%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can access driver services at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division located right in Centre. The local DMV offers standard licensing and registration services, making vehicle-related tasks convenient for city dwellers. Additional information and online services are available through the Alabama DMV website.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division
Address:
1000 Cherokee County Rd 114, Centre, AL 35960
Phone:
(256) 927-3351
Website:
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is based on publicly available sources including AccuWeather, U.S. Census Bureau, local government data, and third-party partners such as Neustar. While we strive to ensure accuracy, all data is provided “as is” and should be independently verified before making any decisions. Movers.com makes no guarantees regarding the completeness or reliability of the information.