Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Payne, AL
Considering a move to Fort Payne, AL? This friendly city of about 15,000 offers affordable living, with median home prices around $160,000 and average rents at $760. Residents enjoy a mild climate, quick 22-minute commutes, and easy access to outdoor recreation in the scenic foothills of the Appalachians. While property crime rates are above the national average, the city features a close-knit community, local schools with reasonable class sizes, and the convenience of a regional medical center. Explore the relaxed pace and small-town charm Fort Payne has to offer.
Demographics - Fort Payne, AL
Demographics - Fort Payne, AL
Fort Payne is home to nearly 15,000 residents, with a median age of 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The population is predominantly White at 75%, but there's growing diversity with over 8% non-English speakers. This moderate-sized community offers a blend of small-town familiarity and varied cultural backgrounds.
Population:
14,877
Density:
430 per sq mi
Median Age:
39.2
Gender Ratio:
96 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
8.1%
Ethnic Composition
White:
75.2%
Black:
5.5%
Asian:
0.7%
Others:
18.6%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Fort Payne, AL?
Living in Fort Payne is highly affordable, with a median home value of $160,000 and rent averaging $760 per month. The overall cost of living index sits well below the national average, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious families and retirees. Utilities and groceries also remain reasonably priced for residents.
Median House Value:
$160,000
Gross Rent:
$760
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,180
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,030
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$370
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
83.6
Grocery:
92.1
Housing:
68.5
Utilities:
97.3
Transportation:
87.0
Health Care:
89.7
Miscellaneous:
93.2
Crime
Is Fort Payne, AL a safe place to live?
Fort Payne experiences a property crime rate higher than the national average, with a 1 in 43 chance, while violent crime remains relatively rare at 1 in 365. Residents benefit from a strong sense of community, but it’s wise to stay vigilant, especially regarding property safety. Overall, crime rates are manageable but worth considering for newcomers.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
274
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,295
Crime Index:
2,569
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 365
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 43
Weather
What is the weather like in Fort Payne, AL year-round?
The city enjoys a mild climate, with winter lows around 31°F and summer highs nearing 88°F. With 58% sunny days and over 56 inches of annual rainfall, Fort Payne offers comfortable seasons ideal for outdoor enthusiasts. The weather supports year-round recreation amid scenic Appalachian foothills.
Winter
Min:
31°F
Max:
52°F
Spring
Min:
47°F
Max:
73°F
Summer
Min:
66°F
Max:
88°F
Fall
Min:
49°F
Max:
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
56.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Fort Payne residents typically earn a median household income of about $51,000, with a poverty rate just under 20%. Most neighbors have at least a high school education, and the average commute is a quick 22 minutes. The community’s low unemployment and modest rental costs make it a stable place to settle.
Median Income:
$42,800
Household Income:
$51,200
Family Income:
$58,600
Per Capita Income:
$24,200
Income Male:
$40,300
Income Female:
$29,700
Poverty Rate:
19.4%
Non English Speakers:
8.1%
Rent:
$760
Unemployment Rate:
3.2%
Public Transport Usage:
0.3%
Commute Time:
21.8 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
80.1%
Bachelors or More:
14.5%
Education
How are the schools in Fort Payne, AL?
Fort Payne offers a range of educational options, including public schools like Fort Payne High School and Wills Valley Elementary, both known for reasonable class sizes. For higher education, Northeast Alabama Community College is just 10 miles away, providing accessible post-secondary opportunities. Local private schools add further choices for families.
Public Schools
Name:
Fort Payne High School
Street:
201 45th Street NE
Phone:
256-845-0535
Students:
1,050
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.2
Name:
Wills Valley Elementary School
Street:
4111 Williams Ave NE
Phone:
256-845-0665
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.5
Private Schools
Name:
Cornerstone Christian Academy
Street:
1600 McCurdy Ave S
Phone:
256-997-7116
Students:
120
Colleges
Name:
Northeast Alabama Community College
City:
Rainsville
State:
AL
Distance:
10 miles
Students:
3,100
Healthcare
Healthcare in Fort Payne centers around DeKalb Regional Medical Center, providing emergency and general medical services. With nearly 90% of residents covered by health insurance and an above-average number of physicians, access to care is reliable. The city’s healthcare index also reflects solid local services for families and seniors.
Major Hospitals
Name:
DeKalb Regional Medical Center
Address:
200 Medical Center Dr, Fort Payne, AL 35968
Phone:
(256) 845-3150
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
1.7
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.8%
Health Care Index:
68.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Fort Payne, AL?
Fort Payne’s housing market remains affordable, with median home prices at $160,000 and owner-occupancy nearly 66%. Rental options are accessible, and the area sees steady home appreciation, making it appealing for both buyers and renters. Low foreclosure and vacancy rates indicate a healthy, stable market.
Median Home Price:
$160,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$760
Owner Occupied Rate:
65.9%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
6.8%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
6.5%
New Construction Rate:
1.1%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can easily access licensing and vehicle registration services at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division located in town. The office provides comprehensive DMV services and maintains a convenient online presence for updates and appointments. Local access simplifies routine driving and registration needs.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division
Address:
1115 Church Ave SE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Phone:
(256) 845-8525
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.