Why Live in Fort Payne
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.
Home Trends in Fort Payne, AL
On average, homes in Fort Payne, AL sell after 84 days on the market compared to the national average of 50 days. The median sale price for homes in Fort Payne, AL over the last 12 months is $232,900, up 3% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Median Sale Price
$232,900
Median Single Family Sale Price
$243,500
Average Price Per Sq Ft
$153
Number of Homes for Sale
62
Last 12 months Home Sales
171
Median List Price
$250,000
Median Change From 1st List Price
2%
Median Home Sale Price YoY Change
3%