This is a highly detailed guide all about the 12 most expensive towns to buy a home in the state of Alabama.
Each of the twelve towns includes home price history chart, mortgage details, map and an overall “town grade chart” all based on many sources.
The home price history data and current median home price data was sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index. I referenced multiple national real estate listing websites as well. I list all sources listed at the end. Let’s dive in.
Overview Chart Setting Out Median Home Prices for All 12 Alabama Towns
Dauphin Island’s home values shot through the roof with a massive 130.5% jump since 2014, which really shows how hot coastal real estate has become.
Mountain Brook is still Alabama’s premium spot, with houses now going for $917,349 – that’s a whopping $230,000 more than runner-up Orange Beach.
What’s really interesting is this tiny Lake Martin town called Equality, which saw prices climb 70.7% in just five years, telling us that people are seriously willing to pay up for those lake views. That’s enough of an intro.
Here’s the list.
1. Dadeville, AL – $466,031
Nestled in the heart of Lake Martin’s recreational paradise, Dadeville showcases remarkable real estate momentum with property values climbing from $223,088 in 2014 to $300,349 in 2019, before reaching $466,031 in 2024 – marking an impressive 10-year growth of 108.9% and 5-year appreciation of 55.2%. This charming lakeside community serves as the county seat of Tallapoosa County and sits approximately 25 miles northeast of Auburn, offering residents a perfect blend of small-town living with easy access to larger city amenities.
Why is Dadeville expensive?
Dadeville’s premium real estate values stem from its prime location on Lake Martin, one of Alabama’s largest and most prestigious recreational lakes. The town benefits from a combination of waterfront properties and its strategic position as a convenient gateway to Auburn University, making it attractive to both vacation home buyers and permanent residents.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025 is as follows:
- Home Price: $466,031
- Down Payment: $93,206
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,403 (use our home buying affordability calculator to determine if you can buy here).
Where is Dadeville – Map
Dadeville sits in east-central Alabama, positioned on the western shores of Lake Martin approximately 25 miles northeast of Auburn. The town serves as the seat of Tallapoosa County and lies at the intersection of U.S. Highway 280 and State Route 49.
Dadeville Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: C-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C
- Metro Proximity: C+
Dadeville’s ratings reflect its Lake Martin location and small-town character. While healthcare access and cultural activities score lower due to distance from major cities, the lake setting provides excellent outdoor recreation opportunities and the small-town environment helps maintain moderate crime rates. Compare these grades to the 10 best towns to retire in Alabama.
2. Fairhope, AL – $466,303
The artistic enclave of Fairhope demonstrates steady market strength with home values increasing from $234,599 in 2014 to $312,073 in 2019, ultimately reaching $466,303 in 2024, reflecting a robust 98.8% 10-year growth and 49.4% 5-year appreciation. This picturesque bayside community graces the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, known for its charming downtown filled with boutiques, galleries, and restaurants, while offering stunning sunset views across the water.
Why is Fairhope expensive?
Fairhope’s high property values reflect its status as a culturally rich, artistic community on Mobile Bay with a vibrant downtown and stunning waterfront views. Its reputation as one of the South’s most beautiful small towns, combined with its excellent schools and high quality of life, continues to drive demand from affluent buyers.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $466,303 (compare buying a home vs renting with this calculator)
- Down Payment: $93,261
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,404
Where is Fairhope – Map
Fairhope graces the eastern shore of Mobile Bay in Baldwin County, roughly 15 miles southeast of Mobile. The city perches atop bluffs overlooking the bay, providing scenic views and cooling breezes from the Gulf of Mexico.
Fairhope Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B
- Healthcare Access: B+
- Weather: A-
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: B
- Metro Proximity: B+
Fairhope achieves strong scores across all categories, particularly in quality of life metrics. The coastal location provides excellent weather and outdoor activities, while the vibrant arts scene and proximity to Mobile ensure good cultural and healthcare access.
3. Lake Purdy, AL – $472,321
Property values in Lake Purdy tell a story of consistent growth, beginning at $295,575 in 2014, rising to $342,065 in 2019, and reaching $472,321 in 2024, representing a 59.8% increase over the decade and 38.1% in the last five years. This tranquil community surrounds its namesake reservoir just southeast of Birmingham, providing residents with both natural beauty and convenient access to the metropolitan area’s amenities.
Why is Lake Purdy expensive?
Lake Purdy’s property values are driven by its unique position as a scenic reservoir community offering a peaceful setting while remaining just minutes from Birmingham’s business districts. The combination of large lots, water views, and proximity to the city’s medical and business centers makes it particularly attractive to professionals seeking an upscale suburban lifestyle.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $472,321
- Down Payment: $94,464
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,435
Where is Lake Purdy – Map
Lake Purdy is situated in Shelby County, just southeast of Birmingham’s city limits along Highway 119. The community surrounds its namesake reservoir, which serves as a primary water source for the Birmingham Water Works system.
Lake Purdy Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: A-
- Metro Proximity: A-
Lake Purdy benefits from its proximity to Birmingham while maintaining a more natural setting around its reservoir. The location provides good healthcare access and airport convenience while offering strong outdoor recreation options and lower crime rates than more urban areas.
4. Crane Hill, AL – $477,206
Market dynamics in Crane Hill reveal significant appreciation, with home values starting at $253,954 in 2014, climbing to $308,175 in 2019, and achieving $477,206 in 2024, marking an 87.9% 10-year growth and 54.8% 5-year gain. This scenic community sits along Smith Lake in Cullman County, offering residents a peaceful lakefront lifestyle while maintaining easy access to both Huntsville and Birmingham.
Why is Crane Hill expensive?
Crane Hill commands high prices due to its premium location on Smith Lake, known for its clear waters and upscale waterfront developments. Its position between Birmingham and Huntsville has made it a sought-after location for luxury second homes and retirement properties.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $477,206
- Down Payment: $95,441
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,461
Where is Crane Hill – Map
Crane Hill is located in Cullman County, nestled along the eastern shores of Lewis Smith Lake, approximately 40 miles northwest of Birmingham. The community sits between Cullman and Double Springs, providing easy access to both Interstate 65 and Highway 278.
Crane Hill Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B
- Healthcare Access: C+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: C
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C+
- Metro Proximity: C+
Crane Hill’s scores reflect its Smith Lake location, with outdoor recreation being the standout feature. The distance from major cities impacts healthcare and cultural access, though the lake setting and natural beauty compensate for these limitations.
5. Dauphin Island, AL – $477,217
The barrier island haven of Dauphin Island showcases dramatic value increases from $207,074 in 2014 to $304,476 in 2019, before reaching $477,217 in 2024, boasting the highest 10-year appreciation rate at 130.5% and a strong 56.7% 5-year growth. This beloved coastal community sits at the mouth of Mobile Bay, offering residents and visitors alike pristine beaches, historic Fort Gaines, and the renowned Audubon Bird Sanctuary.
Why is Dauphin expensive?
Dauphin Island’s property values reflect its unique status as a barrier island offering both Gulf and bay waterfront properties with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The island’s limited developable land and combination of beach access, historic sites, and natural preserves creates strong demand for its real estate.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $477,217
- Down Payment: $95,443
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,461 – see 10 Alabama mortgage lenders here.
Where is Dauphin Island – Map
Dauphin Island is a barrier island situated at the entrance to Mobile Bay, about 30 miles south of Mobile. The island stretches roughly 14 miles from east to west, forming the southernmost point of Alabama.
Dauphin Island Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B
- Healthcare Access: C
- Weather: A
- Cultural Activities: B-
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: A-
- Airport Proximity: C+
- Metro Proximity: C
Dauphin Island excels in weather and outdoor activities, offering unique coastal living with excellent fishing, beaches, and wildlife viewing. The island location naturally impacts healthcare access and airport proximity, though this isolation helps maintain lower crime rates and a distinct community character.
6. Homewood, AL – $514,146
The sought-after suburb of Homewood demonstrates solid appreciation with values rising from $279,551 in 2014 to $383,301 in 2019, and reaching $514,146 in 2024, reflecting an 83.9% 10-year increase and 34.1% 5-year growth. Located just south of Birmingham’s downtown, this family-friendly community is renowned for its walkable downtown, excellent schools, and proximity to Red Mountain Park.
Why is Homewood expensive?
Homewood’s premium prices stem from its reputation as one of Birmingham’s most desirable suburbs, known for its exceptional schools and walkable village atmosphere. Its location adjacent to Birmingham’s business districts and medical centers, combined with its tree-lined streets and historic charm, attracts affluent professionals and families.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $514,146
- Down Payment: $102,829
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,651
Where is Homewood – Map
Homewood directly borders Birmingham to the south, lying in the shadow of Red Mountain in Jefferson County. The city is effectively surrounded by Birmingham, Mountain Brook, and Vestavia Hills, positioning it at the heart of the metropolitan area’s most prestigious suburbs.
Homewood Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B+
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: A
- Metro Proximity: A+
Homewood’s central location provides superior access to healthcare, cultural activities, and transportation. The walkable downtown and proximity to Red Mountain Park boost outdoor recreation scores, while the urban setting slightly impacts crime rates compared to more suburban locations.
7. Vestavia Hills, AL – $516,574
Market performance in Vestavia Hills shows steady appreciation from $309,388 in 2014 to $381,296 in 2019, before climbing to $516,574 in 2024, representing a 67% decade-long growth and 35.5% 5-year increase. This prestigious Birmingham suburb stretches along the ridges south of the city, offering residents upscale amenities, top-rated schools, and stunning views of the valley below.
Why is Vestavia Hills expensive?
Vestavia Hills justifies its high property values through its combination of nationally ranked schools and elevated location offering spectacular views of Birmingham. The community’s mix of luxury developments, country club lifestyle, and convenient access to downtown Birmingham makes it particularly attractive to executive-level professionals.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $516,574
- Down Payment: $103,315
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,664 (play around with our mortgage calculator)
Where is Vestavia Hills – Map
Vestavia Hills extends along the ridges south of Birmingham, spanning parts of both Jefferson and Shelby counties. The city stretches from the crest of Shades Mountain eastward to Liberty Park, encompassing multiple distinct communities along U.S. Highway 31 and Interstate 459.
Vestavia Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B+
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A-
- Outdoor Activities: A-
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A
- Metro Proximity: A
Vestavia Hills scores exceptionally well across all categories due to its prime location near Birmingham and excellent local infrastructure. The elevated position provides slightly better weather than surrounding areas, while proximity to the city ensures outstanding healthcare and cultural access with minimal compromises.
8. Jacksons Gap, AL – $541,182
Real estate values in Jacksons Gap have soared from $239,831 in 2014 to $323,966 in 2019, ultimately reaching $541,182 in 2024, marking an impressive 125.7% 10-year appreciation and 67% 5-year growth. This lakeside community sits along the shores of Lake Martin, providing residents with a perfect blend of waterfront living and rural charm while remaining within easy reach of Auburn and Alexander City.’
Why is Jacksons Gap expensive?
Jacksons Gap’s premium real estate prices are driven by its position on Lake Martin’s most desirable shoreline, offering deep water access and stunning views. The town’s limited inventory of waterfront properties and proximity to Auburn creates strong competition among luxury buyers seeking lake access.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $541,182
- Down Payment: $108,236
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,791
Where is Jackson’s Gap – Map
Jacksons Gap is situated on the western shores of Lake Martin in Tallapoosa County, approximately 15 miles north of Alexander City. The town lies along State Route 63, just minutes from Chimney Rock and other popular lake landmarks.
Jackson’s Gap Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B+
- Healthcare Access: C
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: C-
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C-
- Metro Proximity: C-
Jacksons Gap’s ratings highlight its strengths in outdoor recreation and natural beauty, centered around Lake Martin. The remote location impacts healthcare access and cultural opportunities, though this isolation helps maintain lower crime rates and pleasant small-town atmosphere.
9. Indian Springs Village, AL – $548,515
Property values in Indian Springs Village have shown remarkable strength, climbing from $304,111 in 2014 to $387,526 in 2019, before reaching $548,515 in 2024, demonstrating an 80.4% 10-year appreciation and 41.5% 5-year growth. This exclusive community in Shelby County offers a unique blend of estate-sized lots and natural beauty, while maintaining convenient access to Birmingham’s southern business districts.
Why is Indian Springs Village expensive?
Indian Springs Village’s high values reflect its status as an exclusive community offering estate-sized lots in a heavily wooded setting just outside Birmingham. The town’s strict zoning requirements and commitment to preserving its natural environment have created a haven for luxury properties.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $548,515
- Down Payment: $109,703
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $2,828
Where is Indian Springs Village – Map
Indian Springs Village is nestled in Shelby County, approximately 12 miles southeast of Birmingham. The town sits between Oak Mountain State Park and Birmingham’s rapidly growing 280 corridor, providing a forested retreat within easy reach of urban amenities.
Indian Springs Village Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): B+
- Healthcare Access: A-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A
- Airport Proximity: A-
- Metro Proximity: A-
Indian Springs Village balances outdoor recreation with urban convenience, earning strong scores across most categories. Its proximity to Birmingham provides excellent healthcare and cultural access, while maintaining a safe, suburban environment with superior outdoor amenities through nearby Oak Mountain State Park.
10. Equality, AL – $678,141
The real estate trajectory in Equality reveals exceptional growth from $336,702 in 2014 to $397,356 in 2019, ultimately achieving $678,141 in 2024, marking a substantial 101.4% 10-year appreciation and 70.7% 5-year increase. This hidden gem sits along the shores of Lake Martin, offering residents an exclusive lakefront lifestyle while maintaining a peaceful distance from larger urban centers.
Why is Equality expensive?
Equality’s remarkable property values stem from its position along Lake Martin’s most exclusive shoreline, featuring some of Alabama’s most impressive waterfront estates. The area’s limited development and private setting have made it a preferred location for high-net-worth individuals seeking privacy and premium lake access.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $678,141
- Down Payment: $135,628
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $3,497
Where is Equality – Map
Equality, Alabama, is a rural community spanning Coosa, Elmore, and Tallapoosa counties, situated near the northeastern shores of Lake Martin. The area is known for its scenic lakefront properties and quiet, forested surroundings, offering a peaceful retreat within central Alabama.
Equality Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): C+
- Healthcare Access: C-
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: D+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: C-
- Metro Proximity: C-
Equality’s scores reflect its remote lakefront location, with outdoor recreation being its standout feature. The isolated setting impacts healthcare access and cultural opportunities, while higher national-level home prices and distance from major cities affect several ratings. However, the Lake Martin setting provides exceptional water-based activities and privacy.
11. Orange Beach, AL – $688,013
Coastal paradise Orange Beach demonstrates strong market performance, with values increasing from $356,142 in 2014 to $466,938 in 2019, before reaching $688,013 in 2024, showing a 93.2% 10-year growth and 47.3% 5-year appreciation. This vibrant Gulf Coast community offers residents pristine white-sand beaches and world-class fishing, while serving as a major tourist destination with numerous resorts and family attractions.
Why is Orange Beach expensive?
Orange Beach’s premium prices reflect its status as Alabama’s premier coastal resort community, offering direct Gulf access and high-end amenities. The combination of luxury condominiums, waterfront homes, and world-class marina facilities creates strong demand from both investors and second-home buyers.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $688,013
- Down Payment: $137,603
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $3,548 (check out 9 mortgage brokers in Alabama)
Where is Orange Beach – Map
Orange Beach is situated on Alabama’s Gulf Coast in Baldwin County, marking the state’s easternmost coastal community before the Florida state line. The city stretches along the Gulf of Mexico and inland waterways, bordered by Gulf State Park to the west and Perdido Key, Florida to the east.
Orange Beach Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): C+
- Healthcare Access: B-
- Weather: A+
- Cultural Activities: B+
- Outdoor Activities: A+
- Crime Rate: B+
- Airport Proximity: B-
- Metro Proximity: C+
Orange Beach excels in weather and outdoor activities, offering pristine beaches and world-class fishing. Tourist infrastructure boosts cultural offerings, though seasonal population swings affect services and crime rates. Healthcare access requires some travel, but the coastal lifestyle compensates for these limitations.
12. Mountain Brook, AL – $917,349
Leading the market, Mountain Brook’s property values have surged from $553,629 in 2014 to $639,751 in 2019, ultimately reaching $917,349 in 2024, reflecting a 65.7% 10-year growth and 43.4% 5-year appreciation. This prestigious community, often referred to as “The Tiny Kingdom,” represents Alabama’s wealthiest city and sits just southeast of Birmingham, featuring three distinct village centers, lush gardens, and some of the state’s most architecturally significant homes.
Why is Mountain Brook expensive?
Mountain Brook’s position as Alabama’s most expensive real estate market is supported by its reputation as the state’s most prestigious address, featuring exceptional schools and three distinct village centers. The community’s stringent development standards, combined with its proximity to Birmingham’s business district and legacy as an early 20th-century planned community, maintains its position as the region’s most exclusive suburb.
Monthly mortgage payment
The monthly mortgage payment for homebuyers assuming a 20% down payment and 30-year fixed mortgage at 6.689% APR (principal and interest only, not including taxes and insurance) as of February 16, 2025:
- Home Price: $917,349
- Down Payment: $183,470
- Monthly Mortgage Payment: $4,730
Where is Mountain Brook – Map
Mountain Brook wraps around the eastern and southern edges of Birmingham in Jefferson County, occupying the area between Red Mountain and Oak Mountain. The city is comprised of three distinct villages – Mountain Brook Village, English Village, and Crestline Village – each nestled within the area’s rolling terrain.
Mountain Brook Rating Chart (Grades)
- Cost of buying a home (compared nationally): C
- Healthcare Access: A+
- Weather: B+
- Cultural Activities: A+
- Outdoor Activities: A
- Crime Rate: A+
- Airport Proximity: A
- Metro Proximity: A+
Mountain Brook achieves near-perfect scores in most categories due to its prime location adjacent to Birmingham and exceptional local amenities. While home prices rank poorly when compared nationally, the community offers unmatched safety, healthcare access, and cultural opportunities within Alabama. Its position near Birmingham’s medical district and entertainment venues, combined with excellent school systems and low crime rates, justifies its premium status.
Sources:
- Zillow Home Value Index
- Coldwell Banker
- Bing Maps
- North Alabama Retirement and Relocation
- Niche: 2024 Best Places to Retire in Alabama
- Zillow: Indian Springs Village AL Real Estate & Homes For Sale
- Zillow: Vestavia Hills AL Real Estate & Homes For Sale
- Realtor.com: Indian Springs Village, AL Real Estate & Homes for Sale
- Realtor.com: Homes for Sale in Jacksons Gap, AL with Waterfront
- Stacker: Cities With the Most Expensive Homes in Alabama
- Southern Living: The 10 Most Affordable Places To Retire In The South
- Investopedia: Retirement Dreams in the South: Unveiling the True Cost of Living in Top Cities
