Reviewed by: Callie Morrison
The ultimate newcomer’s guide to Huntsville (tips included)
ByLacey Muenstermann
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Reading time: 6 minutes
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You’ve seen the Rocket City win countless awards, you’ve just landed your dream job and you’re moving to Huntsville.
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed stepping into a new city—that’s why we’ve got you covered with the best places to eat, enjoy the arts, buy a house and more. Read on for the ultimate Rocket City crash course.
Huntsville by the numbers
The first thing you need to know about Huntsville is that it’s an impressive city. The Rocket City is known for its skill in the aerospace and engineering industries, but the accomplishments don’t end there.
Check out Huntsville by the numbers:
- 23-minute average commute
- 26% employment growth from 2010-2022 (17% for the U.S.)
- $27 billion state economic impact from the Redstone Arsenal
- 30,500 new industrial jobs
- 40.9% of Huntsville residents with a bachelor’s degree (30% for U.S.)
- 50% growth in the past 20 years (18% for U.S.)
- Income growth in the past 10 years: 29.8% (19.5% for U.S.)
- No. 1 in nation for number of engineering jobs
*Data sourced from the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce.
“If you’re moving from a big city like Atlanta or LA, you’ll be relieved not to worry about the drive time here. Whether you choose to live in Madison city, New Market, Hazel Green or Meridianville, you’re only looking at 20-30 minutes to get wherever you need for work, hobbies and more.”
Clair Day, RealtySouth broker
Insider tip: Although Huntsville rules the engineering sphere, the city also embraces the arts. One of my favorite parts about downtown are the murals you’ll find on almost every building!
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The food scene
Almost every week, we cover new restaurants opening in the Huntsville area—meaning that on average, you’ll have 3-4 options to try every month.
Whether you want authentic Indian food, a top-notch hamburger or a fancy dinner downtown, Huntsville’s food scene has something for you. Check out some of our recommendations:
Casual:
- Good Company Cafe: English village vibes with on-a-budget prices
- Old Black Bear Brewing: Locally-brewed beer + unbeatable burgers
- Thai Garden: A Five Points staple—delicious curry + excellent lunch specials
- The Curry: The best Indian buffet in town—fresh ingredients + authentic recipes
In between:
- 1892 East: A unique seasonal menu that features local ingredients
- La Esquina Cocina: Mexican but with an upscale twist + a great happy hour
- The Salty Cod: A downtown Athens hotspot with unbeatable fish + chips
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Upscale:
- Cotton Row: Delicious Southern food brought to you by the Huntsville chef James Boyce
- Purveyor: High-end eclectic food + world-class cocktails
- Tom Brown’s: Premium steak + seafood restaurant with the prettiest bathrooms around Huntsville
Insider tip: Try a progressive dinner in the downtown Huntsville square. Our suggestion: start with drinks and appetizers at BeeZr, grab dinner at Commerce Kitchen and finish with desserts at The Poppy and Parliament.
Real estate + housing
According to Clair Day, a local RealtySouth broker, one of the main advantages of moving to Huntsville is the home prices. Especially if you move from a larger city, you’re going to get more house for your money and pay less property taxes.
Another advantage the Huntsville area boasts is great real estate agents like Clair Day and her team at RealtySouth, with specialized local knowledge.
Every agent at the RealtySouth Huntsville office has lived in the area for over 15 years, and they know all the best neighborhoods, hospitals, parks, shopping areas and more.
“We provide our clients with the resources they need to settle in, whether that be a doctor, handyman or any other connection. We already have the contacts needed to welcome them into the community. When working with us, they’ll move here and already feel at home.”
Clair Day, RealtySouth Broker
If you’re taking on a long-distance move, RealtySouth makes relocating easy. Check out their relocation department by the numbers:
- Largest relocation division in Alabama
- Trusted partner of 329 companies
- Preferred supplier for 98% of companies in the relocation industry
- 4,190 individuals + families served in 2022
- $180 million closed in sales by the relocation division in 2022
- 100 years of combined industry experience amongst relocation staff members
Insider tip: Check out some of our fun neighborhood features: Blossomwood, Five Points, Hampton Cove, Jones Valley, Monte Sano, Old Town and Providence.
The incredible schools
The Huntsville area is also known for its top-notch schools—public and private. With so many options, you can find a school that fits your child’s unique goals and learning preferences.
Public:
- Huntsville City Schools
- Madison County Schools
- Madison City Schools
- DYK: Huntsville-area public schools feature a 91% graduation rate!
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Private:
- Holy Spirit Regional Catholic School
- Huntsville Christian Academy
- Madison Academy
- New Century Magnet School
- Randolph School
- St. John Paul II Catholic High School
- Whitesburg Christian Academy
- And others
Insider tip: There’s a new hybrid school now open in Huntsville called Artemis Academy.
Entertainment + arts
We can’t forget the cherry on top—the Rocket City’s growing and thriving arts and entertainment scene. If you love live music, artwork, theatre and more, here are some spots you need to check out:
- Campus 805: Top breweries + an iconic event venue
- Huntsville Museum of Art: Impressive exhibit + educational opportunities
- Fantasy Playhouse: Theater productions + children’s academy
- Lowe Mill: An incredible ‘art mall’ with top local vendors
- MidCity: Home to TopGolf, The Orion Amphitheater, Dave & Busters + more
- The Orion Amphitheater: One of the top music venues in the South, bringing in big-time artists
- Bridge Street Town Centre: All your favorite names brands in one place
Insider tip: During the summer, Huntsville hosts Jazz in the Park at Big Spring Park—a can’t-miss event!
Why newcomers love Huntsville:
“For us, it’s not just finding them a new house. It’s connecting the family with a new lifestyle, neighborhood and culture. Our work doesn’t stop just at a signature on a contract. We go the extra mile, making sure they have everything they need to call this place home.”
Beth Morring, RealtySouth agent
For all the resources you need for living in the Rocket City, reach out to a local RealtySouth agent today.
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