The Largest Cities in Alabama
The largest cities in Alabama each have their own unique character. Exploring them is one of my favorite ways to experience the state. From historic landmarks to underrated local gems, every city offers something different and meaningful.
I love how Alabama’s largest cities blend tradition and transformation. You can find the best barbecue joints with generations of flavor, blues bars with stories in every note, and revitalized downtowns where the past and present dance together. It’s the kind of state where I can walk civil rights history in the morning and sip craft cocktails under string lights by night.
Birmingham is the giant here, historic, and beautifully reborn with breweries, art galleries, and a deep civil rights legacy.
Montgomery, the capital, is where change was born and continues to grow, filled with powerful museums and a walkable downtown that feels both modern and reflective.
Mobile brings the coast alive with Mardi Gras traditions, seafood feasts, and Spanish moss dripping from old oaks.
Huntsville is all about innovation, with rockets, startups, and a surprising arts scene. And Tuscaloosa keeps the energy high with college-town pride, riverside views, and football weekends that light up the city.
"History, heart, and hometown pride in every skyline? This is Alabama, bold, soulful, and on the rise."
The Largest City:
Explore Civil Rights History, Vibrant Culture, and Scenic Parks in Birmingham
Birmingham is one of the most unique cities in the South, and it’s easily one of my favorite places to visit for a mix of history, culture, and modern charm.
Known as the “Magic City,” Birmingham grew quickly during the steel industry boom, and today it blends that rich industrial heritage with an exciting, creative energy. That combination makes it stand out as more than just another Southern city, it’s a place filled with resilience, flavor, and community spirit.
The downtown is buzzing with some of the best restaurants, breweries, and entertainment venues, while historic landmarks and museums tell powerful stories about the city’s role in the Civil Rights Movement. I love how Birmingham feels both historic and fresh at the same time, making every visit special.
Just a short drive from beautiful mountains and outdoor trails, it’s an easy destination that offers relaxation, adventure, and plenty of unforgettable experiences. It’s a must-visit whether you’re traveling through Alabama or planning a dedicated trip.
What I love most is the variety, you can walk through the Birmingham Civil Rights District, spend an afternoon at Railroad Park, or dive into some of the best Southern food you’ll ever taste. Every visit feels like discovering something new and underrated, and that’s why Birmingham will always be one of my favorite cities.
Walk Through Civil Rights Landmarks and Southern Heritage in Montgomery
Situated in Montgomery County on the Alabama River, Montgomery is the second biggest city in Alabama. Montgomery is also the Alabama state capital and is located in the south central part of the state. The city covers an area of 162.18 square miles and has an estimated population just under 200,000, with around 373,000 people living in the surrounding metropolitan area.
As the state capital and a pivotal location in both the Civil War and the Civil Rights Movement, Montgomery holds a powerful legacy that makes it stand out as more than just a Southern city—it’s a destination filled with resilience, stories, and community spirit.
If Coastal Charm and Mardi Gras Spirit Excite You, Discover Mobile
Mobile is the third largest city in the state of Alabama. This city is located in Mobile County in the southwestern part of Alabama. Mobile also has the unique distinction of being the biggest town or city on the Gulf Coast between the major cities of St Petersburg in Florida and New Orleans in Louisiana.
Mobile covers an area of 180.06 square miles, of which more than 40 square miles is water, and has an estimated population of 190,000 people, with over 410,000 in the surrounding metropolitan area. Mobile is the only port city in Alabama is located on the Mobile River. The city's port has always been an important factor in its economy and is still one of the biggest ports in the United States in the modern day.
Reach for the Stars With Innovation and Space Adventures in Huntsville
Huntsville is the fourth largest city in Alabama and is mostly located in Madison County, in the Appalachian region of the state, which is found to the north. Some parts of Huntsville also extend into Limestone County and Morgan County. Huntsville covers an area of 214.7 square miles and has an estimated population around 190,000, making it very similar in population to Mobile.
There is a possibility that Huntsville’s population may in fact be the third highest in Alabama, but an official survey will need to be carried out to confirm this possibility. The city of Huntsville is known as 'Rocket City' due to the presence of the NASA Marshall Space Flight Center.
Cheer, Explore, and Savor Riverfront Views in Tuscaloosa
Located in the western central part of Alabama, Tuscaloosa is the fifth biggest city in the state. The town was incorporated back in 1819 and named after Tuskaloosa, a Native American chief in the Mississippi region. Tuscaloosa covers an area of 71.7 square miles and has an estimated population of 100,000 people, with over 235,000 living in the surrounding metropolitan area.
The city of Tuscaloosa has various nicknames, including 'Druid City' due to the many water oak trees around its streets, and 'City of Champions' due to the fact that the University of Alabama football team, the Alabama Crimson Tide, has won several championship games in recent year.
Conclusion
What I love most about Alabama’s largest cities is how different they are, each one gives me a new experience. Whether I’m exploring Birmingham’s cultural energy, Montgomery’s historical depth, Huntsville’s space legacy, or Mobile’s coastal vibe, I always find something that feels special and unforgettable.
