Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Montgomery, AL
Considering a move to Montgomery, AL? The city’s 198,665 residents enjoy affordable living, with median home prices around $145,000 and average rents near $1,020. Commutes are easy at just 20 minutes on average, and the area sees 63% sunny days each year. While crime rates are above national averages, Montgomery offers diverse educational options, a lively regional culture, and convenient access to quality healthcare. Explore more below to see if Montgomery is the right fit for your next home.
Demographics - Montgomery, AL
Demographics - Montgomery, AL
Montgomery, Alabama is home to nearly 200,000 residents, with a strong African American majority making up over 60% of the population. The city has a median age of 36 and a population density of about 1,300 people per square mile, offering a blend of urban and suburban living. A modest percentage of residents speak languages other than English, contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
Population:
198,665
Density:
1,300 per sq mi
Median Age:
36.0
Gender Ratio:
88 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
6.3%
Ethnic Composition
White:
32.1%
Black:
60.8%
Asian:
2.4%
Others:
4.7%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Montgomery, AL?
Montgomery offers a highly affordable cost of living, with median home values at $145,000 and average rents around $1,020 per month. The overall cost of living index is below the national average, particularly for housing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious movers. Utilities and groceries are also reasonably priced compared to other U.S. cities.
Median House Value:
$145,000
Gross Rent:
$1,020
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,320
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,180
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
82.7
Grocery:
94.0
Housing:
58.0
Utilities:
98.0
Transportation:
83.0
Health Care:
91.0
Miscellaneous:
90.0
Crime
Is Montgomery, AL a safe place to live?
Crime rates in Montgomery are higher than national averages, with a violent crime rate of 541 per 100,000 residents and a 1 in 30 chance of experiencing property crime. While the city has vibrant neighborhoods, prospective residents should be mindful of safety and research local crime trends when choosing where to live. Community initiatives and local law enforcement continue efforts to enhance public safety.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
541
Property Crimes Per 100k:
3,320
Crime Index:
3,861
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 185
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 30
Weather
What is the weather like in Montgomery, AL year-round?
Montgomery enjoys a warm Southern climate, with hot summers averaging highs in the low 90s and mild winters typically staying above freezing. The city receives about 52 inches of rainfall annually and boasts 63% sunny days, making it ideal for those who appreciate outdoor activities year-round. Seasonal changes are moderate, providing a comfortable environment throughout the year.
Winter
Min:
38°F
Max:
59°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
75°F
Summer
Min:
71°F
Max:
92°F
Fall
Min:
54°F
Max:
78°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
52 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
63%
Neighbors
Montgomery’s residents have a median household income of about $54,800 and an average commute of just 20 minutes, making daily life convenient. While the poverty rate is above the national average at 20.6%, the community is known for its resilience and neighborly spirit. Most adults have completed high school, and a quarter hold a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Median Income:
$29,000
Household Income:
$54,800
Family Income:
$67,200
Per Capita Income:
$28,100
Income Male:
$38,600
Income Female:
$32,200
Poverty Rate:
20.6%
Non English Speakers:
6.3%
Rent:
$1,020
Unemployment Rate:
4.7%
Public Transport Usage:
1.1%
Commute Time:
20.1 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
86.7%
Bachelors or More:
27.1%
Education
How are the schools in Montgomery, AL?
Montgomery offers a range of educational opportunities, from well-regarded public magnet schools like Brewbaker Technology Magnet High to respected private institutions such as Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. The city is also home to higher education options, including Alabama State University and Auburn University at Montgomery, both located within city limits. Families benefit from diverse choices in K-12 and college education.
Public Schools
Name:
Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School
Street:
4405 Brewbaker Dr
Phone:
334-284-7100
Students:
900
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.5
Name:
Forest Avenue Academic Magnet
Street:
3201 Forest Ave
Phone:
334-269-3673
Students:
500
Student Teacher Ratio:
16.2
Private Schools
Name:
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School
Street:
5350 Vaughn Rd
Phone:
334-272-7221
Students:
800
Colleges
Name:
Alabama State University
City:
Montgomery
State:
AL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
3,900
Name:
Auburn University at Montgomery
City:
Montgomery
State:
AL
Distance:
0 miles
Students:
5,200
Healthcare
The city provides strong healthcare access, with major hospitals like Baptist Medical Center South and Jackson Hospital offering full emergency services. Residents benefit from 2.2 physicians per 1,000 people and high health insurance coverage at nearly 90%. Montgomery’s healthcare system is supported by a robust network of providers and facilities.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Baptist Medical Center South
Address:
2105 E South Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36116
Phone:
(334) 288-2100
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Jackson Hospital
Address:
1725 Pine St, Montgomery, AL 36106
Phone:
(334) 293-8000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.2
Health Insurance Coverage:
89.4%
Health Care Index:
73.1
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Montgomery, AL?
Montgomery’s housing market is affordable and stable, with a median home price of $145,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 56%. Rental options are widely available, with average rents for a two-bedroom apartment around $1,020 and a relatively high vacancy rate providing flexibility for newcomers. The city has experienced modest home appreciation in recent years, making it an appealing market for both buyers and renters.
Median Home Price:
$145,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$1,020
Owner Occupied Rate:
55.6%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
9.7%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
3.1%
New Construction Rate:
1.5%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.9%
DMV Information
Driver services in Montgomery are managed by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Driver License Division, conveniently located on South Ripley Street. Residents can find up-to-date information and access services online or by visiting the local office. The DMV is a central resource for licensing, vehicle registration, and related needs.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency – Driver License Division
Address:
301 South Ripley Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
Phone:
1-334-242-4400
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.