Alabama’s looking better than ever for retirement in 2025—and the numbers back it up. Based on the latest Overall Retirement Score (ORS), which measures things like quiet streets, walkability, and cultural access, 21 towns across the state are proving to be ideal places to settle down. From mellow Gulf Coast hideaways to friendly small-town hubs with just the right mix of calm and convenience, these spots are where retirees are finding real quality of life—without the big price tags or big-city stress.
21. Fairhope – A Charming Bayside Arts Hub
Perched along the eastern shoreline of Mobile Bay, Fairhope is one of Alabama’s most picturesque small towns. Known for its bluff-top views and downtown filled with galleries and cafés, it’s long been a favorite of artists and writers. For retirees, the appeal is twofold: a strong sense of community and access to a surprisingly rich cultural scene for a town its size.
Fairhope hosts regular art walks, jazz concerts, and literary events—all in a walkable downtown setting. The town is also just a short drive from Mobile’s healthcare network, giving retirees both peace of mind and plenty to do. It’s not the cheapest place to live in Alabama, but for many, the quality of life here justifies the price.
Fairhope – ORS 92.10
- Overall Retirement Score: 92.10
- Quietness: 75.52
- Walkability: 26.96
- Cultural amenities: 67.21
- Vibrancy: 36.65
- Car-Friendliness: 84.82
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Fairhope earns its place on this list thanks to its vibrant but peaceful setting. With strong cultural scores and high car-friendliness, it balances charm and convenience—ideal for retirees looking for beauty without isolation.
20. Coffeeville – Peaceful Living Deep in the Pines
Located in Clarke County, Coffeeville is as quiet as they come. Surrounded by forestland and farmland, this rural town offers a slow, easy pace that many retirees find refreshing. There’s no bustling town square or high-rise condo development here—just neighbors who know each other, birdsong in the morning, and wide-open skies at night.
The nearest major services are in Jackson or Thomasville, but Coffeeville’s charm lies in what it lacks: traffic, noise, and stress. For those craving solitude and simplicity over shops and restaurants, it’s a near-perfect match.
Coffeeville – ORS 92.11
- Overall Retirement Score: 92.11
- Quietness: 87.41
- Walkability: 4.64
- Cultural amenities: 4.68
- Vibrancy: 2.28
- Car-Friendliness: 97.91
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Coffeeville’s high quietness and car-friendliness scores explain its appeal for folks who just want peace, privacy, and wide roads. It’s not built for walkability or excitement—but for many retirees, that’s exactly the point.
19. Gulf Shores – Coastal Calm with Year-Round Sunshine
Gulf Shores brings beach life to the retirement equation, with sugar-white sands and warm Gulf waters just steps from the front porch. Located on Alabama’s southernmost edge, it draws snowbirds and long-term retirees alike. While it gets busier in summer, many retirees find the off-season pace perfect for long walks, fishing, or just enjoying the ocean breeze.
The town also offers a range of medical clinics and services, plus quick access to Pensacola for larger hospitals. There’s a price premium for living this close to the beach, but for retirees who’ve always dreamed of coastal living, it’s a dream worth chasing.
Gulf Shores – ORS 92.58
- Overall Retirement Score: 92.58
- Quietness: 73.82
- Walkability: 8.72
- Cultural amenities: 37.36
- Vibrancy: 35.27
- Car-Friendliness: 79.60
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Gulf Shores combines moderate quiet with strong cultural offerings and car access, making it one of Alabama’s top beach picks for retirees who want more than just sun and sand.
18. Shelby – Rural Comfort Just Outside Birmingham
Set southeast of Birmingham near Lay Lake, Shelby is a peaceful escape that’s still within an hour’s drive of urban amenities. It’s a great option for retirees who want the space and serenity of country life without being too far removed. Fishing, boating, and gardening are big here—and so is community involvement through churches and small local groups.
Shelby doesn’t have big-box stores or nightlife, but that’s part of its charm. Most errands involve a short drive to Columbiana or Alabaster, but for folks who value privacy and nature, it’s worth every mile.
Shelby – ORS 93.18
- Overall Retirement Score: 93.18
- Quietness: 91.46
- Walkability: 3.34
- Cultural amenities: 34.66
- Vibrancy: 9.44
- Car-Friendliness: 91.80
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Shelby’s high quietness and car access scores make it a practical, low-stress place to retire. It won’t wow you with culture or walkability, but it more than makes up for it with peace and proximity to bigger hubs.
17. Ramer – Rural Simplicity South of Montgomery
Ramer is tucked in the rolling countryside about 20 miles southeast of Montgomery. It’s quiet, remote, and ideal for retirees who want to trade the daily grind for garden rows and porch swings. There’s a small post office, a handful of businesses, and lots of farmland—it’s the kind of place where the stars shine bright and neighbors wave from their trucks.
Access to healthcare is nearby in Montgomery, and the cost of living is low, making it financially appealing. For those comfortable with driving and happy to live without daily entertainment options, Ramer offers peace in spades.
Ramer – ORS 93.33
- Overall Retirement Score: 93.33
- Quietness: 91.25
- Walkability: 11.51
- Cultural amenities: 17.95
- Vibrancy: 3.81
- Car-Friendliness: 99.77
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Ramer ranks highly for quiet living and ease of driving. It doesn’t have much in the way of culture or excitement, but for retirees who want simplicity and elbow room, it’s a strong contender.
16. Vandiver – Sterrett – Wooded Hills and Wide Open Roads
The twin communities of Vandiver and Sterrett sit in the wooded foothills just east of Birmingham. While they don’t have a traditional town center, the area is dotted with country roads, hobby farms, and forested acreage. This is where retirees go to trade in crowds and city noise for hummingbirds and tall pines.
Living here means embracing a rural rhythm, but with the bonus of being less than an hour from Birmingham’s hospitals and shopping. The terrain is hilly, the air is crisp, and the neighbors are few—just the way many retirees like it.
Vandiver – Sterrett – ORS 93.89
- Overall Retirement Score: 93.89
- Quietness: 98.25
- Walkability: 2.19
- Cultural amenities: 14.80
- Vibrancy: 7.03
- Car-Friendliness: 83.23
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
This area scores especially high on quietness, making it a draw for retirees who value stillness and privacy. While walkability is low, the strong car-friendliness and access to green space give it lasting appeal for rural-minded retirees.
15. Epes – A Tucked-Away Riverfront Retreat
Near the banks of the Tombigbee River, Epes is a small town with a quiet pulse. There’s not much in the way of nightlife or shopping here, but what it lacks in amenities, it makes up for with slow mornings, empty roads, and space to breathe. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will especially appreciate the local scenery and wildlife.
For retirees who want to fish, garden, and relax without distractions, Epes is a natural fit. The nearby towns of Livingston and Demopolis offer basic services, and the low cost of living makes it easy to stretch a retirement budget.
Epes – ORS 94.09
- Overall Retirement Score: 94.09
- Quietness: 74.42
- Walkability: 2.46
- Cultural amenities: 8.03
- Vibrancy: 13.91
- Car-Friendliness: 80.40
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
While cultural scores are modest, Epes shines as a low-cost, car-friendly retreat. It’s well suited for retirees who care more about peace and personal space than being in the thick of things.
14. Gantt – Lakeside Living with a Southern Twist
Located on the shores of Gantt Lake in southern Alabama, this little town offers retirees a chance to live right on the water—without breaking the bank. Fishing, boating, and quiet lake views are part of everyday life here. The town is laid-back, with just a handful of shops and a gas station, but the sense of calm is hard to beat.
It’s especially appealing to active retirees who enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind hopping in the car to run errands. Larger towns like Andalusia are just a short drive away, providing access to groceries, clinics, and pharmacies.
Gantt – ORS 94.16
- Overall Retirement Score: 94.16
- Quietness: 83.61
- Walkability: 6.46
- Cultural amenities: 37.81
- Vibrancy: 13.16
- Car-Friendliness: 92.92
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Gantt scores well in both cultural access and car-friendliness, offering a strong mix of lakeside leisure and practical convenience for retirees who like a slower pace but still want things within reach.
13. York – Bellamy – Quiet Living Along the Mississippi Line
York and Bellamy sit near the western edge of Alabama, close to the Mississippi border. These are small, deeply rural communities where life moves slowly and predictability is a perk. There aren’t many businesses or attractions, but retirees who enjoy solitude and wide-open space often see that as a feature, not a flaw.
The area is served by nearby Livingston and the University of West Alabama for occasional cultural events and healthcare. Retirees here often enjoy gardening, porch sitting, and catching up with neighbors at church or the post office.
York – Bellamy – ORS 94.81
- Overall Retirement Score: 94.81
- Quietness: 83.73
- Walkability: 2.82
- Cultural amenities: 2.42
- Vibrancy: 4.38
- Car-Friendliness: 91.53
- Transit-Friendliness: 0.16
York and Bellamy offer ultra-quiet retirement living with excellent car access. Though low in walkability and amenities, their appeal lies in affordability, privacy, and a peaceful daily routine.
12. Bon Secour – Magnolia Springs – Coastal Charm Without the Crowds
Bon Secour and Magnolia Springs sit just inland from the Gulf, tucked away from the busier beach towns but still close to coastal attractions. Known for their shaded oak-lined roads, historic cottages, and laid-back atmosphere, these neighboring communities offer old-fashioned charm and natural beauty in equal measure.
The area is particularly attractive to retirees who want to be near the water but avoid the chaos of tourist hotspots. Foley and Gulf Shores are both nearby for errands and healthcare, making this duo a practical and picturesque retirement option.
Bon Secour – Magnolia Springs – ORS 95.11
- Overall Retirement Score: 95.11
- Quietness: 86.53
- Walkability: 11.04
- Cultural amenities: 51.20
- Vibrancy: 16.07
- Car-Friendliness: 85.21
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
These towns strike a rare balance between charm and practicality. High scores for cultural amenities and car access give retirees plenty to enjoy without sacrificing convenience or calm.
11. Union Grove – Hill Country Tranquility Near Huntsville
Union Grove sits in the gentle hills of northern Alabama, just south of Guntersville Lake. It’s a quiet, residential town that offers a rural lifestyle with easy access to outdoor recreation. Fishing, boating, and scenic drives are part of the draw—especially for retirees who want fresh air and space to spread out.
The town is only 30 minutes from Huntsville, making it easy to access top-tier healthcare, shopping, and cultural events when needed. Union Grove keeps things simple, which is exactly what many retirees are looking for these days.
Union Grove – ORS 95.27
- Overall Retirement Score: 95.27
- Quietness: 88.79
- Walkability: 10.48
- Cultural amenities: 50.05
- Vibrancy: 11.65
- Car-Friendliness: 90.57
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Union Grove stands out with its strong cultural access and high quietness score. Its proximity to Huntsville means you’re never far from services, even if daily life stays blissfully low-key.
10. Fitzpatrick – Country Calm in the Black Belt Prairie
Fitzpatrick is a tiny community in Bullock County known for its wide-open farmland, rural roads, and classic southern quiet. The area is deeply agricultural and has an old-fashioned, back-to-basics appeal that many retirees appreciate. It’s not bustling—but that’s the point.
Montgomery is just under an hour away, so essentials are within reach. Meanwhile, Fitzpatrick itself offers the kind of stillness that’s hard to find these days. For retirees who want room to breathe and a tight-knit rural feel, this town delivers.
Fitzpatrick – ORS 95.58
- Overall Retirement Score: 95.58
- Quietness: 96.47
- Walkability: 5.87
- Cultural amenities: 17.06
- Vibrancy: 5.31
- Car-Friendliness: 88.15
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Fitzpatrick’s exceptionally high quiet score and strong driving access make it a go-to choice for retirees who want off-grid peace without being totally cut off.
9. Hope Hull – Quiet Country Living with City Access
Hope Hull lies just southwest of Montgomery and combines the best of both worlds: country calm with city proximity. This unincorporated community is mostly made up of large lots, pastures, and quiet neighborhoods. It has become a popular landing spot for retirees who want space without giving up access to hospitals and stores.
The town is also home to several historic churches and is just minutes from Montgomery Regional Airport. While it’s not walkable or transit-friendly, everything you need is just a short drive away.
Hope Hull – ORS 96.13
- Overall Retirement Score: 96.13
- Quietness: 98.75
- Walkability: 6.69
- Cultural amenities: 67.91
- Vibrancy: 7.17
- Car-Friendliness: 99.17
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Hope Hull’s outstanding quietness and cultural access scores—plus near-perfect driving convenience—make it one of the best-balanced rural options on this list.
8. Shorter – Easygoing Vibes Between Auburn and Montgomery
Shorter sits along the I-85 corridor between Montgomery and Auburn, giving retirees access to both cities while offering a relaxed, rural setting of its own. There are a few local shops and gas stations, but most people drive a short distance for errands. That trade-off brings peace, privacy, and affordable living.
The Tuskegee National Forest is nearby, and the area has a strong agricultural tradition. For retirees who want to be close to multiple cities without the daily traffic, Shorter strikes a very practical balance.
Shorter – ORS 96.86
- Overall Retirement Score: 96.86
- Quietness: 97.70
- Walkability: 5.00
- Cultural amenities: 13.02
- Vibrancy: 16.35
- Car-Friendliness: 96.28
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Shorter’s strong quietness and car scores make it a great home base for retirees who want a little of everything—rural stillness, easy drives, and quick trips to city clinics and shops.
7. Lillian – Coastal Access Without the Fuss
Lillian is a small Gulf Coast community just minutes from the Florida border. It offers retirees close access to Pensacola’s hospitals, beaches, and services—without the congestion or high prices of a Florida ZIP code. The area has a blend of mobile homes, waterfront cottages, and quiet residential streets.
There’s a public boat launch, scenic views of Perdido Bay, and a slower lifestyle that appeals to folks looking to relax near the coast. Lillian is also close to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, but far enough removed to avoid the crowds.
Lillian – ORS 97.01
- Overall Retirement Score: 97.01
- Quietness: 93.69
- Walkability: 10.99
- Cultural amenities: 44.83
- Vibrancy: 10.55
- Car-Friendliness: 69.58
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Lillian offers an excellent mix of quiet, moderate walkability, and strong cultural access. Its coastal location and proximity to services make it a standout for retirees chasing sunshine and calm.
6. Pine Apple – Historic Charm in Alabama’s Black Belt
Pine Apple is a tiny town with a long history. Founded in the early 1800s, it’s tucked into the heart of Wilcox County, surrounded by farmland, pine forests, and historic homes. It has that postcard-perfect Southern small-town feel—with wide porches, sleepy streets, and a strong sense of community.
For retirees, Pine Apple offers something rare: a genuinely quiet lifestyle in a town that still values tradition and neighborly connection. It’s peaceful, scenic, and full of old-time character—ideal for those looking to slow down in a meaningful way.
Pine Apple – ORS 98.22
- Overall Retirement Score: 98.22
- Quietness: 98.37
- Walkability: 10.20
- Cultural amenities: 14.75
- Vibrancy: 1.87
- Car-Friendliness: 89.88
- Transit-Friendliness: 10.28
Pine Apple’s standout quietness score, above-average car access, and manageable walkability make it a peaceful but practical choice for traditional-style retirement living.
5. Waverly – A Quaint Stop Between Auburn and Lake Martin
Waverly may be small, but it has a big personality. Tucked between Opelika and Lake Martin, it has quietly become known for its art shows, music festivals, and friendly rural charm. It’s not a booming hub—but it doesn’t want to be. That’s what makes it so appealing for retirees who want the perks of a creative, engaged community without the stress of a larger city.
The town hosts the annual “Old 280 Boogie,” and has a growing community of artists and musicians who call it home. For retirees, it’s a low-key but lively place to stay connected while living in peace.
Waverly – ORS 98.25
- Overall Retirement Score: 98.25
- Quietness: 91.23
- Walkability: 11.07
- Cultural amenities: 43.19
- Vibrancy: 0.26
- Car-Friendliness: 85.51
- Transit-Friendliness: 1.87
Waverly combines strong cultural value with solid car access and peaceful surroundings. It’s a creative yet quiet town—ideal for retirees who want a little spark in their daily routine.
4. Goshen – Low-Key Living in South-Central Alabama
Located in Pike County just west of Troy, Goshen is a peaceful, rural town with strong agricultural roots. It’s the kind of place where everyone waves and neighbors look out for each other. The area is surrounded by woods and farmland, and there’s a noticeable absence of noise or clutter.
Though the town is small, retirees here benefit from proximity to Troy University’s resources, including cultural events and healthcare clinics. If you’re after a stress-free environment with deep community ties, Goshen delivers.
Goshen – ORS 98.41
- Overall Retirement Score: 98.41
- Quietness: 97.03
- Walkability: 5.23
- Cultural amenities: 51.69
- Vibrancy: 1.31
- Car-Friendliness: 96.37
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Goshen’s high quietness and cultural access scores—plus excellent car-friendliness—make it a solid pick for retirees seeking a slow, steady lifestyle with good access to services.
3. Cuba – Quiet, Affordable, and Surprisingly Accessible
Just a few miles from the Mississippi border, Cuba is a tiny town with a lot of space and very little noise. It offers an affordable, rural lifestyle with easy access to I-20, which makes day trips and errands a breeze. It’s not a place for excitement—but for peace and predictability, it scores highly.
Nearby towns like Livingston and Meridian (just across the state line) provide healthcare and shopping, while Cuba itself remains calm and close-knit. For retirees who value simplicity, it’s a strong contender.
Cuba – ORS 98.46
- Overall Retirement Score: 98.46
- Quietness: 88.09
- Walkability: 7.57
- Cultural amenities: 26.06
- Vibrancy: 4.09
- Car-Friendliness: 78.10
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Cuba’s mix of quiet living, decent amenities, and practical location make it a smart, budget-friendly retirement option—especially for those wanting easy drives and a no-fuss routine.
2. Thomaston – Slower Living with Small-Town Spirit
Thomaston is a small town in Marengo County that offers a peaceful retreat from the pressures of modern life. Known for its community events and southern hospitality, it’s the kind of place where folks still gather at the local café to catch up. Retirees here enjoy a slower pace and a strong sense of local pride.
The Thomaston Historical Society and Rural Heritage Center provide light cultural enrichment, while daily needs are met in nearby towns like Linden and Demopolis. For a quiet retirement with deep roots, Thomaston is a great fit.
Thomaston – ORS 98.63
- Overall Retirement Score: 98.63
- Quietness: 97.35
- Walkability: 7.38
- Cultural amenities: 6.32
- Vibrancy: 4.38
- Car-Friendliness: 87.33
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
With its very high quietness score and strong car access, Thomaston is ideal for retirees looking to step away from it all without giving up community spirit and basic convenience.
1. Point Clear – Upscale Coastal Living with Southern Grace
Point Clear sits gracefully on the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, just south of Fairhope, and has long been a favorite among retirees seeking beauty, peace, and a touch of refinement. This small, waterfront community is known for its grand oaks, historic homes, and sweeping views over the bay. It’s home to the storied Grand Hotel and a selection of elegant cottages that reflect its long-standing reputation as a place to unwind in style.
While the town is quiet and deeply residential, it’s just minutes from shops, restaurants, and medical facilities in nearby Daphne and Fairhope. For retirees looking for a blend of serenity, culture, and coastal charm, Point Clear delivers one of the most well-rounded retirement experiences in Alabama.
Point Clear – ORS 99.32
- Overall Retirement Score: 99.32
- Quietness: 97.10
- Walkability: 20.76
- Cultural amenities: 80.57
- Vibrancy: 24.47
- Car-Friendliness: 95.57
- Transit-Friendliness: 0
Point Clear tops the list with a near-perfect ORS, combining outstanding cultural access and peaceful surroundings with excellent driving convenience. It’s an ideal choice for retirees seeking a premium coastal lifestyle with all the essentials close at hand.
Sources & References
- Zillow – Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) Data
- United States Census Bureau – QuickFacts: Alabama
- Federal Highway Administration – Highway Statistics Series
- National Transit Database – National Transit Profile Data
- U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – HUD User Data Sets
- Alabama Department of Transportation – ALDOT Statewide Planning & Road Data
