Fort Payne, AL Homes for Rent

Fort Payne, known as "Alabama's Mountain Town," is a small city nestled in a narrow valley between two of the region’s tallest peaks. With a population of around 15,000, it is surrounded by national and state parks featuring miles of waterfall hiking trails, making it the second most popular tourist destination in Alabama. The local economy benefits from both eco-tourism and manufacturing, with Ferguson Enterprises having a significant presence. The housing market includes modest midcentury ranch-style homes, many on multi-acre lots with mountain views, as well as historic houses, wooden cabins, and secluded brow lot homes. Little River Canyon National Preserve is a key attraction, offering hiking, swimming, and boulder climbing, while DeSoto State Park provides additional waterfall trails. Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy the Coosa River, 25 miles south, and Lake Guntersville, 40 miles west, which also features a public boat launch and mountain biking trails. Downtown Fort Payne, centered around U.S. Highway 11, boasts historic storefronts, local boutiques, coffee shops, art galleries, and an antique mall, with live music venues and locally owned restaurants. Fort Payne City Schools are highly rated, serving about 3,300 students with a robust career and technical education curriculum. The city is accessible via Interstate 59, connecting to Chattanooga 50 miles north and Birmingham 95 miles south, with Huntsville 70 miles away via Alabama State Road 35. Summers are hot and muggy, while winters are short and mild.