Everything You Should Know Before Moving to Rainbow City, AL
Thinking of moving to Rainbow City, AL? With a friendly population of around 10,200, Rainbow City offers affordable living—median home prices are about $192,000 and average rents are just $970. Residents enjoy a mild Southern climate with plenty of sunshine and short 21-minute commutes. The city features highly rated local schools and access to major healthcare centers. While property crime rates are higher than average, Rainbow City’s relaxed pace, low cost of living, and welcoming community make it a great choice for families and retirees alike.
Demographics - Rainbow City, AL
Demographics - Rainbow City, AL
Rainbow City is home to approximately 10,200 residents, with a median age of 42.1, reflecting a balanced community of families and retirees. The city’s population is predominantly White (85.2%), with a modest mix of other ethnicities and a small percentage of non-English speakers, contributing to its friendly, close-knit atmosphere.
Population:
10,200
Density:
880 per sq mi
Median Age:
42.1
Gender Ratio:
92 males per 100 females
Non-English Speakers Percentage:
3.0%
Ethnic Composition
White:
85.2%
Black:
8.9%
Asian:
0.8%
Others:
5.1%
Cost Of Living
What is the average cost of living in Rainbow City, AL?
Rainbow City offers an affordable lifestyle, with a median home value of $192,000 and an overall cost of living index well below the national average. Daily expenses, including groceries and utilities, are budget-friendly, making the city attractive for both families and retirees.
Median House Value:
$192,000
Gross Rent:
$970
Monthly Electricity Charges:
$140
Auto Insurance:
$1,240
House Owner Cost With Mortgage:
$1,220
House Owner Cost Without Mortgage:
$420
State Taxes:
Low:
2.0%
|
High:
5.0%
Cost Of Living Index:
81.2
Grocery:
94.3
Housing:
62.5
Utilities:
97.8
Transportation:
78.4
Health Care:
90.1
Miscellaneous:
86.5
Crime
Is Rainbow City, AL a safe place to live?
While Rainbow City maintains a low violent crime rate of 185 per 100,000 people, property crime is higher than average, with a 1 in 42 chance of occurrence. Residents generally enjoy a safe environment but should take standard precautions to protect their homes and belongings.
Violent Crimes Per 100k:
185
Property Crimes Per 100k:
2,360
Crime Index:
2,545
Chance Of Violent Crime:
1 in 540
Chance Of Property Crime:
1 in 42
Weather
What is the weather like in Rainbow City, AL year-round?
Residents enjoy a mild Southern climate, with winter temperatures ranging from 34°F to 55°F and summer highs reaching 91°F. The area experiences around 58% sunny days annually and receives ample rainfall, supporting lush landscapes and outdoor activities year-round.
Winter
Min:
34°F
Max:
55°F
Spring
Min:
50°F
Max:
76°F
Summer
Min:
68°F
Max:
91°F
Fall
Min:
48°F
Max:
75°F
Average Rainfall Inches:
53.1 inches
Sunny Days Percentage:
58%
Neighbors
Households in Rainbow City have a median income of $62,800, with most residents commuting just over 21 minutes to work. The community boasts a high rate of high school graduates (93.6%) and a low unemployment rate, fostering a stable and neighborly environment.
Median Income:
$31,500
Household Income:
$62,800
Family Income:
$78,200
Per Capita Income:
$32,000
Income Male:
$45,200
Income Female:
$37,500
Poverty Rate:
11.4%
Non English Speakers:
3.0%
Rent:
$970
Unemployment Rate:
3.9%
Public Transport Usage:
0.5%
Commute Time:
21.4 minutes
Education
High School or Higher:
93.6%
Bachelors or More:
23.5%
Education
How are the schools in Rainbow City, AL?
Families in Rainbow City benefit from reputable public schools with favorable student-teacher ratios, as well as access to private education options. Additionally, Gadsden State Community College is just a short drive away, supporting lifelong learning and career advancement.
Public Schools
Name:
Rainbow Middle School
Street:
454 Lumley Rd
Phone:
256-442-1095
Students:
610
Student Teacher Ratio:
18.1
Name:
John S. Jones Elementary School
Street:
301 Lumley Rd
Phone:
256-442-2900
Students:
760
Student Teacher Ratio:
17.4
Private Schools
Name:
Westbrook Christian School
Street:
100 Westminster Dr
Phone:
256-442-7457
Students:
415
Colleges
Name:
Gadsden State Community College
City:
Gadsden
State:
AL
Distance:
6 miles
Students:
4,300
Healthcare
Rainbow City residents have convenient access to major hospitals in nearby Gadsden and benefit from a strong healthcare network, with about 2 physicians per 1,000 people. Most locals are insured, ensuring quality care and peace of mind for families and seniors alike.
Major Hospitals
Name:
Riverview Regional Medical Center
Address:
600 South 3rd St, Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone:
(256) 543-5200
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Name:
Gadsden Regional Medical Center
Address:
1007 Goodyear Ave, Gadsden, AL 35903
Phone:
(256) 494-4000
Type:
General & Surgical
Emergency Services:
Yes
Physicians Per 1000:
2.0
Health Insurance Coverage:
88.1%
Health Care Index:
67.5
Housing Market
What is the housing market like in Rainbow City, AL?
The housing market in Rainbow City is stable, with a median home price of $192,000 and an owner-occupied rate of 76.4%. Home values have appreciated nearly 5% over the past year, indicating steady demand and a healthy real estate environment.
Median Home Price:
$192,000
Average Rent For 2 Bedroom:
$970
Owner Occupied Rate:
76.4%
Rental Vacancy Rate:
8.1%
Home Appreciation Rate (1yr):
4.9%
New Construction Rate:
1.4%
Foreclosure Rate:
0.7%
DMV Information
Residents can handle driver services at the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Gadsden office, located nearby for added convenience. The office provides comprehensive DMV services and maintains an accessible website for scheduling and information.
State:
Alabama
Department:
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency – Driver License Division
Address:
103 Forrest Ave, Gadsden, AL 35901
Phone:
(256) 549-4578
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.