List of Cities in Alabama Alphabetically

by btobers · Published August 8, 2024 · Updated November 11, 2024

Alabama has around 460 incorporated cities and towns. The capital city is Montgomery, which is also the second-largest city in the state. The largest city in Alabama is Birmingham, followed by Huntsville, Mobile, Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, Hoover, Dothan, Auburn, Decatur, and Madison. These cities are spread across Alabama’s 67 counties. Birmingham is known as a cultural and financial hub, while Huntsville is recognized for its significant aerospace and defense industries. Towns in Alabama are usually smaller, and the distinction between a city and town in Alabama is determined by population size.

1. Birmingham

City Facts

Population: 200,733 (2023 estimate)
Area Codes: 205, 659
Zip Codes: 35201–35299
County Affiliation: Jefferson County, Shelby County

Geography and History

Birmingham is located in north-central Alabama, nestled in the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. The city was founded in 1871 at the junction of two railroads and was named after Birmingham, England. It quickly grew as an industrial center due to the nearby availability of iron ore, coal, and limestone, essential ingredients for steel production. Birmingham’s economy boomed through the early 20th century, earning it the nickname “The Magic City” due to its rapid expansion. The city also played a pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement during the 1960s, particularly with events like the Birmingham Campaign and the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church.

Colleges and Universities

University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
Samford University
Birmingham-Southern College
Miles College
Lawson State Community College

Major Landmarks

Birmingham boasts several significant landmarks, including the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, which documents the city’s civil rights struggles, and Vulcan Park, home to the world’s largest cast-iron statue. Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the city’s industrial past. The Alabama Theatre and Lyric Theatre are historic venues still in use today. Additionally, Red Mountain Park and the Birmingham Botanical Gardens offer outdoor experiences.

2. Montgomery

City Facts

Population: 199,618 (2023 estimate)
Area Codes: 334
Zip Codes: 36101–36191
County Affiliation: Montgomery County

Geography and History

Montgomery, the capital city of Alabama, is located along the Alabama River in the south-central part of the state. The city was founded in 1819 and named after Richard Montgomery, a Revolutionary War hero. Montgomery is best known for its role in the Civil Rights Movement, particularly as the location of the Montgomery Bus Boycott led by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Montgomery also has a rich history as the first capital of the Confederacy during the Civil War. The city’s historical significance continues to be a focal point for visitors and scholars.

Colleges and Universities

Alabama State University
Auburn University at Montgomery (AUM)
Faulkner University
Huntingdon College
Troy University (Montgomery Campus)

Major Landmarks

Montgomery is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. preached. The Alabama State Capitol, a key site during the Civil Rights Movement, remains a popular tourist destination. The Rosa Parks Museum commemorates the Montgomery Bus Boycott, and Old Alabama Town preserves historical buildings from the 19th century. Other notable landmarks include the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and Riverfront Park.

3. Huntsville

City Facts

Population: 216,963 (2023 estimate)
Area Codes: 256, 938
Zip Codes: 35801–35899
County Affiliation: Madison County, Limestone County

Geography and History

Huntsville is located in northern Alabama, at the base of the Appalachian Mountains. The city was founded in 1805 by John Hunt and became Alabama’s first capital in 1819. Huntsville has transformed from a cotton-trading town into a hub for technology and aerospace industries, earning it the nickname “Rocket City.” This transformation began during World War II and the Cold War when NASA and the U.S. Army established operations here, particularly through the Marshall Space Flight Center. The city’s proximity to Redstone Arsenal continues to drive its economy and population growth.

Colleges and Universities

University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH)
Oakwood University
Alabama A&M University
Calhoun Community College
J.F. Drake State Community and Technical College

Major Landmarks

Huntsville’s most famous landmark is the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, which houses a massive collection of space artifacts and is home to Space Camp. Monte Sano State Park provides stunning views and hiking opportunities. The Historic Huntsville Depot offers a glimpse into the city’s past as a key transportation hub. The Weeden House Museum and the Huntsville Botanical Garden are also popular attractions, celebrating both the city’s history and its natural beauty.

4. Mobile

City Facts

Population: 187,041 (2023 estimate)
Area Codes: 251
Zip Codes: 36601–36695
County Affiliation: Mobile County

Geography and History

Mobile is located along the Gulf Coast in southern Alabama, where the Mobile River meets Mobile Bay. The city was founded in 1702 by French colonists, making it one of the oldest cities in the state. Mobile has a rich cultural heritage influenced by French, Spanish, British, and Creole settlers. The city was the first capital of French Louisiana. Mobile is also home to the oldest organized Mardi Gras celebrations in the U.S., a tradition that dates back to the early 1700s. Its port has played a significant role in its economic development, serving as a key shipping hub for the Gulf of Mexico.

Colleges and Universities

University of South Alabama
Spring Hill College
Bishop State Community College
University of Mobile
Faulkner University (Mobile Campus)

Major Landmarks

Mobile’s landmarks reflect its deep historical and cultural roots. The USS Alabama Battleship Memorial Park displays a World War II-era battleship and submarine. Fort Conde is a reconstructed colonial fort that offers insights into Mobile’s colonial history. The Mobile Carnival Museum celebrates the city’s Mardi Gras traditions. Visitors also enjoy exploring the Mobile Museum of Art and Bellingrath Gardens and Home, a stunning 65-acre estate showcasing Gulf Coast horticulture.

5. Tuscaloosa

City Facts

Population: 101,129 (2023 estimate)
Area Codes: 205
Zip Codes: 35401–35487
County Affiliation: Tuscaloosa County

Geography and History

Tuscaloosa is located along the Black Warrior River in west-central Alabama. The city was founded in 1819 and named after the Native American chief Tuskaloosa, meaning “Black Warrior.” Tuscaloosa served as the state capital from 1826 to 1846 before it was moved to Montgomery. The city is home to the University of Alabama, and much of its culture and economy revolve around the university. Tuscaloosa has also been a site of significant civil rights events, including the integration of the university in 1963. Today, Tuscaloosa is known for its educational institutions and as a regional hub for business and healthcare.

Colleges and Universities

University of Alabama
Stillman College
Shelton State Community College
Tuscaloosa University (proposed development)
Strayer University (Tuscaloosa Campus)

Major Landmarks

Tuscaloosa’s major landmarks are closely tied to its history and the University of Alabama. Bryant-Denny Stadium is one of the most iconic college football venues in the nation. The Paul W. Bryant Museum celebrates the legacy of the university’s storied football program. Other significant landmarks include the Jemison-Van de Graaff Mansion and the Tuscaloosa Amphitheater, a premier concert venue. The Moundville Archaeological Park just outside Tuscaloosa preserves the remains of a prehistoric Native American civilization.

List of Cities in Alabama Alphabetically

1. Birmingham

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

2. Montgomery

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

3. Huntsville

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

4. Mobile

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

5. Tuscaloosa

City Facts

Geography and History

Colleges and Universities

Major Landmarks

List of All Cities and Towns in Alabama in Alphabetical Order

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