Reviewed by: Lisa Battles
What is it like to relocate to Huntsville now? Hear from one fun D.C. couple who made the move
Reading time: 5 minutes
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Huntsville has become a welcoming destination for people of all ages looking to relocate, reinvent themselves or embrace the next exciting chapter of life.
Lauren Uher and Darryl Shall spent the past 15 years between the Jersey Shore and Naples, Florida, before finding just the right spot to settle in the Rocket City. They chose new South Huntsville apartments as a home base for peaceful morning walks to lively nights watching the Huntsville Havoc, soaking up all their new hometown has to offer.
Curious about what it’s like to relocate to Huntsville? We caught up with the couple to hear what makes this place feel just right after living across the country.
Meet new Huntsvillians, Lauren + Darryl

Lauren and Darryl are both retired from careers working for the federal government and are enjoying this chapter exploring new places. The two met while working in Washington D.C., where their two daughters live now. They have lived around the map, with Darryl’s Philly roots bringing them back to that part of the country for a Jersey Shore retirement.
After 15 comfortable years in Jersey Shore, the two opted for a summer home in Naples, FL, where they could escape to warmer weather. Last year, the couple found themselves apartment hunting for their next big move.
The move to Huntsville was all about being closer to family—especially Lauren’s parents, who live nearby. With Darryl’s family ties to Redstone Arsenal and both of their backgrounds in government work, the transition felt like a natural fit.
Finding the perfect spot to live


Darryl led the apartment hunting, and after an extensive search, found just the right spot: The Liam at Hays Farm.
Close to countless shops, recreation and entertainment in South Huntsville, The Liam is an excellent location to begin new adventures.
Lauren loves the peacefulness of the community, especially the Zen courtyard and light-filled clubhouse, where she often spends time making art. She says she also appreciates the diversity of the city and enjoys being around younger residents who keep the energy fresh.
“Everything we need is right here—Publix, Starbucks, trails, parks. It’s convenient, peaceful and feels like home.
I also volunteer remotely and appreciate how peaceful the property is—it’s quiet, well-maintained and perfect for focus.”
Darryl says he has leaned into an active routine, thanks to the community’s top-tier fitness amenities and easy access to nature trails.
Most mornings, he’s out walking their new dog, Tabby, or enjoying time at the on-site dog park..
“The gym is a real standout. I use the Peloton bikes and the yoga room regularly. It’s the kind of quality you’d expect in a big city, but without the traffic.”
Are you or someone you know relocating soon to Huntsville? Check out The Liam at Hays Farm!
Huntsville favorites you may also love




Recreation, restaurants and entertainment are all within easy reach at The Liam. (Waterfall image” Land Trust of North Alabama; all others, Hville Blast)
The couple has fully embraced life as locals. Darryl shares that everything he thought he’d be missing from his former cities, he found right here. He jokes that being from Jersey, they love to complain, but Huntsville doesn’t leave them anything to complain about.
Both were pleasantly surprised by the city’s presence of local sports and endless things to do. From catching Huntsville City FC and Havoc games to discovering festivals downtown, the two love their new routine.
Plus, at The Liam, all of your essentials are just a few minutes away:
🛒Stock up on groceries at Sam’s Club, Publix, Kroger + Walmart
🍴Dine out at Tom Browns, Miyako, El Voquero, Taqueria El Cazador, Amerigo, Mozza Pizza, Rosie’s
☕️Grab coffee at Rooster’s Crow Coffee, Angel’s Island + Starbucks
🛍️Shop at Saving Way, Sunshine Studio, AM Collective
🌳Get outdoors with walking trails, Bell Mountain Park, Blevin’s Gap Nature Preserve, John Hunt Park
🏫Get kids to school quick next door at Grissom High School
Top-rated by residents


Fun fact: The Liam is one of the top-rated apartments in Huntsville, with a solid 5-star rating.
Check out what the D.C. couple and their neighbors love most about this community that blends luxury and comfort:
- ⭐ Friendly + attentive staff
- ⭐ Pet park + pet spa (Tabby gives it two paws up)
- ⭐️ Pristine community
- ⭐️ Zen courtyard perfect for morning coffee
- ⭐️ Luxury amenities like the resort-style pool with TVs + grilling station
- ⭐️ Nearby food + drink options
- ⭐️ Quiet, luxury living with a community feel
- ⭐️ Mountain views + nearby nature parks
Lauren and Darryl especially love having plenty of space for their dog to run and play—and say the welcoming environment is a big part of what makes it feel like home.
- Where: 401 Haysland Rd SW, Huntsville, AL 35802 (14 min from downtown Huntsville)
- Schedule a tour: 256-431-2034
- Website | Instagram | Facebook
Make The Liam at Hays Farm your home today and receive 10 weeks FREE when you sign a 15-month lease on select units—plus a $500 gift card to get you started!
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