Alabama / County

Moving to Fort Payne, AL

Thinking of making a move to Fort Payne, AL? Get helpful local information about living costs, neighborhoods, schools, weather, housing, DMV details, and practical relocation details before you plan your move.

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Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Fort Payne, AL

Considering a move to Fort Payne, AL? This welcoming community of 14,877 residents offers a blend of suburban charm and convenience, with median home prices around $160,000 and average rents near $760. Commute times average 22 minutes and public transport is accessible, making it great for professionals. The area boasts low violent crime, strong schools, and plenty of sunny days (58% annually), ideal for families and commuters alike. Explore Fort Payne's cost of living, education, and friendly neighborhoods to see if it's the right fit for your next move.

Demographics - Fort Payne, AL

Fort Payne has a population of 14,877 residents, offering a diverse community with a median age of nearly 39 and a balanced gender ratio. The area features a strong blend of backgrounds, with about 75% White, 6% Black, and 1% Asian residents, and over 8% speaking a language other than English at home. Its high population density contributes to a lively suburban atmosphere.

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?

The cost of living in Fort Payne is higher than the national average, with a cost of living index of 83.6. Median home values are around $160,000 and average rents for a two-bedroom apartment are approximately $760. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also elevated, reflecting the area's desirable location and amenities.

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 is considered a safe community, with a low violent crime rate of 274 incidents per 100,000 residents and a property crime chance of 1 in 43. Most residents enjoy peace of mind, making it an attractive choice for families. The crime index remains below many urban areas in Alabama.

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?

Fort Payne experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers reaching highs of 88°F and cold winters dipping to 31°F. The area receives about 56 inches of rainfall annually and enjoys sunshine on 58% of days. This climate offers residents a balanced mix of outdoor opportunities year-round.

Winter

Min
31°F
Max
52°F

Summer

Min
66°F
Max
88°F

Spring

Min
47°F
Max
73°F

Fall

Min
49°F
Max
74°F
Average Rainfall Inches
56.2 inches
Sunny Days Percentage
58%

Neighbors

The neighborhood boasts a healthy median household income of $51,200 and a low poverty rate of 19.4%. Over 80% of residents have at least a high school diploma, and nearly 15% hold a bachelor's degree or higher. Commute times average 22 minutes, and almost 0% use public transportation, reflecting the area's accessibility and educated population.

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 quality education options, with public schools like Fort Payne High School and Wills Valley Elementary School known for favorable student-to-teacher ratios. Families also have access to private schools and several nearby colleges, including Northeast Alabama Community College. The community is committed to educational excellence for all age groups.

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

Fort Payne residents have access to quality healthcare, with major hospitals like DeKalb Regional Medical Center nearby. The community benefits from a high physician-to-resident ratio of 1.7 per 1,000 people and 89.8% health insurance coverage. Local healthcare services are reliable and comprehensive.

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

Healthcare Access

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?

The local housing market is strong, with a median home price of $160,000 and an owner-occupied rate of nearly 66%. The market has seen a 6.5% appreciation over the past year, and rental vacancy rates remain moderate at 6.8%. Fort Payne offers a mix of stability and opportunity for both buyers and renters.

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 of Fort Payne handle vehicle services through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division, conveniently located in Fort Payne. The state DMV provides driver licensing, vehicle registration, and other essential services both in person and online. Information and resources are easily accessible for new and existing residents.

State
Alabama
Department
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency Driver License Division
Address
1115 Church Ave SE, Fort Payne, AL 35967
Phone
(256) 845-8525

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.

FAQs About Moving to Fort Payne, AL

Answers use the same city data shown on this page, including costs, housing, schools, safety, weather, healthcare, and DMV details.

Before moving to Fort Payne, review the core fields on this page: population 14,877, median home value $160,000, average rent for 2 bedroom $760, commute time 21.8 minutes, and sunny days percentage 58%.

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