Cities in Madison County, AL
Madison County, located in the northern part of Alabama, was established in 1808 and is the oldest county in the state. The county was named after James Madison, the fourth President of the United States. It played a crucial role in Alabama’s early development due to its fertile land and strategic location along the Tennessee River. Over time, Madison County has transformed from an agricultural center to a high-tech hub, particularly with the growth of Huntsville, which is known for its aerospace and defense industries. The presence of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center and Redstone Arsenal has also contributed to its significant economic and technological development.
County Facts
- Population: Approximately 388,153 (2020 Census)
- County Seat: Huntsville
- Number of Cities and Towns: 6 (Huntsville, Madison, New Hope, Gurley, Owens Cross Roads, Triana)
List of Cities and Towns in Madison County, AL
Huntsville
City Facts
- Area: 220.1 square miles
- Population: 215,006 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 34.7304° N
- Longitude: 86.5861° W
City Overview
Huntsville is the largest city in Madison County and serves as its county seat. Founded in 1805 by John Hunt, the city quickly grew into an agricultural center, with cotton being the dominant crop in its early days. Huntsville’s major transformation came during the mid-20th century, when it became a center for space exploration and defense with the establishment of Redstone Arsenal and NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Today, Huntsville is known as the “Rocket City” and is a hub for aerospace, defense, and technology industries. The city has experienced rapid growth in recent decades, attracting a highly educated workforce and becoming a leader in innovation and research.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Huntsville is home to several important landmarks, including the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, which offers exhibits on space exploration and features one of the largest collections of space artifacts in the world. Other notable sites include Monte Sano State Park and the historic Twickenham district, known for its antebellum architecture. The Huntsville City Schools system includes several highly rated schools, such as Grissom High School and the Academy for Science and Foreign Language. Higher education is available through institutions like the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and Alabama A&M University. Huntsville’s combination of technological innovation, education, and historical charm makes it one of Alabama’s most dynamic cities.
Madison
City Facts
- Area: 29.7 square miles
- Population: 56,933 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 34.7154° N
- Longitude: 86.7394° W
City Overview
Madison is located just west of Huntsville and is one of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama. Founded in the mid-1800s as a small railroad town, Madison grew slowly until the late 20th century, when its proximity to Redstone Arsenal and Huntsville’s expanding tech industry fueled rapid development. Today, Madison is a suburban city known for its high quality of life, excellent schools, and family-friendly atmosphere. It offers a mix of suburban living and easy access to the high-tech job market in nearby Huntsville.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Madison is home to several parks and recreational facilities, including Dublin Park, which offers sports fields, walking trails, and a swimming pool. Historic downtown Madison retains its small-town charm with well-preserved buildings and local shops. The Madison City Schools system is highly regarded and includes Bob Jones High School and James Clemens High School, both of which consistently rank among the best schools in Alabama. Madison’s combination of suburban comfort, strong educational opportunities, and access to high-tech industries makes it an attractive destination for families and professionals alike.
New Hope
City Facts
- Area: 8.8 square miles
- Population: 2,889 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 34.5376° N
- Longitude: 86.4111° W
City Overview
New Hope is a small city located in southeastern Madison County. Originally known as Cloud’s Town, it was renamed New Hope after the Civil War. The town suffered significant destruction during the war but was rebuilt in the late 19th century. New Hope’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, but it has gradually shifted to a more residential community, with many residents commuting to nearby Huntsville for work. Despite its small size, New Hope is known for its tight-knit community and peaceful rural setting.
Major Landmarks and Schools
New Hope’s central landmark is the historic New Hope Presbyterian Church, which dates back to the 19th century and is an important part of the town’s history. Outdoor enthusiasts enjoy the nearby Keel Mountain and the Paint Rock River, which offer opportunities for hiking, fishing, and outdoor recreation. The New Hope City Schools system, part of the Madison County Schools district, includes New Hope High School, serving students from the surrounding rural areas. New Hope’s blend of history, outdoor activities, and small-town charm make it an appealing place to live for those seeking a quieter lifestyle near Huntsville.
Gurley
City Facts
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: 816 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 34.7009° N
- Longitude: 86.3722° W
City Overview
Gurley is a small town located in eastern Madison County, nestled at the base of Keel Mountain. The town was founded in 1891 and named after John Gurley, an early settler who played a pivotal role in the area’s development. Like many towns in the region, Gurley’s early economy was based on agriculture and the railroad. Today, Gurley remains a small, rural community with a rich history, and it offers residents a quiet lifestyle with easy access to the larger cities of Huntsville and Scottsboro.
Major Landmarks and Schools
One of Gurley’s key landmarks is the historic Gurley Railroad Depot, which serves as a reminder of the town’s early days as a railroad stop. The town is also near the Madison County Nature Trail on Green Mountain, which offers scenic hiking trails and a beautiful lake. Gurley is part of the Madison County Schools system, with Madison County High School serving students in the area. Gurley’s blend of rural charm, historical significance, and access to natural beauty makes it an appealing small town in Madison County.
Owens Cross Roads
City Facts
- Area: 8.9 square miles
- Population: 2,060 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 34.5806° N
- Longitude: 86.4589° W
City Overview
Owens Cross Roads is located in southeastern Madison County and has a rich agricultural history. The town developed in the late 19th century, with its name originating from a crossroads where Owens families settled. For much of its history, Owens Cross Roads was a farming community, but in recent decades, it has become more residential, with many residents commuting to Huntsville for work. Despite this shift, the town retains its rural character and offers a peaceful, family-oriented environment.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Owens Cross Roads is close to the Flint River, a popular spot for kayaking and fishing, as well as the Hays Nature Preserve, which offers walking trails and birdwatching opportunities. The town is served by the Madison County Schools system, with students attending Owens Cross Roads Elementary School and New Hope High School. Owens Cross Roads’ proximity to Huntsville, combined with its rural atmosphere and access to outdoor recreation, make it an attractive place for families and nature lovers.
Triana
City Facts
- Area: 2.7 square miles
- Population: 496 (2020 Census)
- Latitude: 34.5943° N
- Longitude: 86.7461° W
City Overview
Triana is a small town located along the Tennessee River in southwestern Madison County. One of the county’s oldest settlements, Triana was established in the early 1800s and was an important river port during the 19th century. However, the town’s prominence declined with the rise of railroads, and it remained a small, rural community throughout much of the 20th century. In recent years, Triana has experienced new growth due to its proximity to the Redstone Arsenal and the expansion of Huntsville.
Major Landmarks and Schools
Triana is known for its access to the Tennessee River, which provides opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge is also nearby, offering a sanctuary for migratory birds and other wildlife. Triana is part of the Madison County Schools system, with students attending nearby schools in Huntsville. The town’s rich history, scenic location along the river, and potential for growth make it a hidden gem in Madison County.