On the shores of Mobile Bay, Fairhope offers waterside homes, a charming town center and a hidden French Quarter. Initially founded in 1894 as a utopian village for creatives, Fairhope has developed into the Eastern Shore's artsy outpost of 22,000 people. Downtown is a destination, full of galleries, specialty shops and eateries. Spans of golden beaches line the bay, while the Fairhope Pier invites residents and tourists to fish, stroll and watch the sunset. Homes offer a mix of million-dollar houses with views of the bay, established ranch-styles and contemporary subdivisions. Baldwin County Public Schools is one of Alabama's fastest-growing and highest-rated districts, making this a favorable option for families considering a move to the Eastern Shore. Realtor Michelle Bigler, owner and associate broker of Wise Living Real Estate, notes the family-friendly atmosphere in Fairhope. “I’ve lived here for all of my adult life, and I love the family environment and safety of it,” Bigler, who has sold homes for more than 20 years, says. “We’re also frequently listed in the Forbes Top 10 for places to retire, so there are often tourists looking to see if they want to live here, but it’s still quiet and family-oriented.” Halfway between Mobile and Gulf Shores, residents can commute into the city for work or head down to the shore for a day on the Gulf of Mexico.
Fairhopers love their little nooks and hideaways, like the French Quarter.
Every sunset in Fairhope feels like a masterpiece waiting to be admired.
Fairhope Farmer`s Market
The Gulf front boardwalk at the Public beach in Gulf Shores is a lively place all year round
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Working in Fairhope
According to Baldwin County's Economic Development Alliance, Baldwin County Public Schools is the area's largest employer, with over 4,000 employees. Other major employers include Collins Aerospace, Walmart and Infirmary Health. Many people living in the area work in Mobile, where major industries include manufacturing, trade and shipbuilding. “There’s definitely a tourist season here, so that drives a lot of the business downtown,” Bigler says.
Collins Aerospace is a large employer for Foley, AL.
Thomas Hospital, in Fairhope, has served Baldwin County for 60 years.
Shipping in Mobile is a main industry for people in the surrounding areas, like Fairhope.
Fairhopers make the Bone & Barrel their last stop for First Friday Art Walk.
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Renovated waterside homes and contemporary suburbs in Fairhope
Fairhope's median sale price is $392,300, 39% higher than the national average of $281,900, according to Niche. The city's oldest homes are concentrated around downtown Fairhope, where homes can go from $400,000 to $2 million depending on the size, level of renovations completed or proximity to the water. Heading east from downtown are classic, established suburbs with prices ranging from $270,000 to $500,000. On the edges of Fairhope are newly built subdivisions and gated communities with prices ranging between $600,000 and $2 million.
Breathe in the bay breeze and feel the Fairhope magic.
Homes in Fairhope are picture-perfect and full of character.
Historic homes in Fairhope tell stories of a timeless Southern elegance.
Fairhope is a place where it's beautiful homes enrich the soul of the town.
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Baldwin County Public Schools
Serving over 31,500 students, Baldwin County Public Schools is a highly rated district that earns an A-minus on Niche. According to its website, all schools in the district are rated above B-minus, and Daphne High School earned National Blue-Ribbon School status in 2012. In addition to being the largest employer in Baldwin County, BCPS is one of the fastest-growing systems in the state, according to the district website. High school students attending schools in Baldwin County can participate in their school's career and technical education program, offering industry-recognized credentials in pathways like culinary arts, sound engineering and STEM. The University of South Alabama's Fairhope campus offers undergraduate and graduate courses.
Learning excellence thrives at Fairhope High School.
At Fairhope Middle School education shapes futures.
Empowering minds at the University of South Alabama.
Baldwin County Public Schools is a highly rated district that earns an A-minus on Niche.
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Residents and visitors enjoy Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park
Numerous parks and trails are located across Fairhope. Fairhope Municipal Pier and Park offers fishing, walking paths and a marina. From the pier, the North and South Beach Parks extend across the bay front, and small beaches dot the shoreline. The city plans to upgrade the park and seawall, including restoring the 50-year-old seawall.
Other green spaces include Fairhoper's Community Park, which features a playground and aqua park, and the Eastern Shore Walking and Bike Trail, which passes through Fairhope. Fairhope is 35 minutes from the white sand beaches of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach.
The Fairhope Pier is a good place for a walk, fishing, or grabbing a bite at the restaurant.
Unplug and unwind at Fairhopers Community Park, Fairhope’s hidden gem.
Walk, run, or stroll the trail along the shore in Fairhope.
From art to sunsets, Fairhope has it all.
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A hidden French Quarter in Fairhope
Much of Fairhope's desirability comes from its downtown. Brick walkways, elm trees, art galleries and boutiques line Fairhope Avenue, drawing both residents and visitors. There are dozens of eateries downtown, ranging from Fairhope institutions like Gambino's Italian Grill, a favorite since 1975, to new additions like Plane and Level, which serves Spanish tapas. Off of South Section Street, Fairhope's French Quarter invites visitors in with New Orleans-style restaurants, clothing stores, chocolate shops and jazz musicians, all surrounding a tree-draped courtyard. "It's so tucked away that you'd miss it if you didn't know it was there, it's a really cool area," Bigler says.
Bigler notes Fairhope’s year-round events, including Mardi Gras parades, a seasonal farmers market, a fall film festival and a spring arts and crafts festival. “The arts and crafts festival takes place every March and it’s a favorite. Vendors come from all over to show their paintings and pottery. It speaks to the artsy vibe here in Fairhope,” Bigler says.
The French Quarter in downtown Fairhope is a picturesque nook in the middle of town.
Enjoy the French Quarter, a little retreat in the heart of Fairhope.
Fairhope is where every street feels like home.
Downtown with it's many eateries is very walkable or many locals use their golf carts.
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Commuting and Weather in Fairhope
Highway 98 runs through the center of Fairhope and merges with Interstate 10, connecting the Eastern Shore to Mobile, 20 miles away. Residents will find daily necessities along Highway 98 and big-box retail hubs in the surrounding communities of Daphne and Foley. The city's closest neighbor is Daphne, located 6 miles from downtown Fairhope. Resort cities Gulf Shore and Orange Beach are 35 miles away. Fairhope is connected to the Baldwin Regional Area Transit System, a shuttle service available Monday through Friday. Residents can call or use the BRATS On-Demand app to schedule service. Thomas Hospital and South Baldwin Regional Medical Center serve Fairhope residents. Mobile International Airport is 25 miles from Fairhope, and Gulf Shores International Airport is 30 miles away.
Fairhope's location in southern Alabama means the summers are long and extremely hot, while the winters are cool and mild. Daily temperature highs during the summer are frequently in the 80s and 90s, while winter daily temperatures are typically between the 40s and 60s. The city is vulnerable to hurricanes, particularly with storm surges that may occur on the shore of Mobile Bay. The city encourages residents to download the City of Fairhope's app to stay up to date with weather events affecting the area.
In Fairhope, Alabama, the bay calls, and the beauty lingers.
Hwy 98 is the main thoroughfare along which Fairhope resides.
Hwy 98 leads to Interstate 10 to the North, a direct route to Mobile, AL.
Baldwin Regional Area Transit System offers on-call public transportation.
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Crime in Fairhope
The Fairhope Police Department's 2023 annual report showed 380 documented cases of violent crime and 302 cases of property crime. Fairhope shows a relatively low amount of crime compared to Baldwin County as a whole, where in 2023, there were 72,000 instances of property crime and 14,200 cases of violent crime, according to Crime.Alabama.Gov, a collaboration between the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency and the University of Alabama.
Written By
Micaela Green
Photography Contributed By
Gabrielle Mazur
Video By
Grace Kim
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
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an experienced agent in this area.
GreatSchools:
The GreatSchools Rating helps parents compare schools within a state based on a variety of school quality indicators and provides a helpful picture of how effectively each school serves all of its students. Ratings are on a scale of 1 (below average) to 10 (above average) and can include test scores, college readiness, academic progress, advanced courses, equity, discipline and attendance data. We also advise parents to visit schools, consider other information on school performance and programs, and consider family needs as part of the school selection process.
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On average, homes in Fairhope, AL sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Fairhope, AL over the last 12 months is $474,400, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Custom-built 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath modern country farmhouse nestled beneath mature oak trees in the heart of Fairhope. Situated on a cul-de-sac with limited through traffic, this property is approximately one mile from downtown Fairhope and the Mobile Bay waterfront, offering convenient access to local shops, restaurants, parks, the pier, parades and other community events. This spacious home
Step into refined elegance with this immaculate, gold-fortified Peachtree plan by Truland Homes, perfectly situated in the highly desirable Firethorne community. Thoughtfully designed with upscale finishes and exceptional attention to detail, this home offers both sophistication and everyday comfort. From the moment you enter, you’re greeted by rich hardwood flooring, soaring ceilings, and
Walk to downtown Fairhope under $500K. Don’t scroll past this one.Located on a quiet street, this mid-century ranch sits in an established neighborhood with no HOA. Built in 1964, the home offers single-level living with wide windows, clean lines, and original hardwood floors that reflect its timeless design.The home has been expanded over time, creating additional space that allows flexibility
Located on a quiet street just moments from Fairhope’s sought-after Fruit and Nut District, this charming single-story home is anchored by a stunning live oak that creates an unforgettable first impression. Enjoy walking or golf cart access to downtown Fairhope, where you’ll find local restaurants, boutique shopping, and vibrant coastal culture. Less than a mile from Mobile Bay and scenic
Looking for the perfect home in Fairhope, AL, to start your next chapter? This spacious, Gold Fortified home has all the bells and whistles that brand-new construction does not: a whole-house gas generator, fully fenced backyard, full irrigation system, gutters, Smart Home features, and more. Built by the orginial Truland Homes in 2020, this single-level 4-bedroom, 3-bath home blends quality
Talk about living the dream with a beautifully crafted custom home in The Colony at the Grand, where the feature that truly sets this property apart is the expansive grove of majestic oaks behind it, offering a rare sense of beauty, privacy, and natural serenity that can be fully enjoyed without the maintenance, as it is managed by the HOA. Tucked beneath a breathtaking canopy of oaks, some
Luxury custom built Gold Fortified home in Dominion Farms on 2 acres in Fairhope! Built in 2017, this 5 bedroom, 3 bath home offers a functional layout with the primary suite and an additional bedroom on the main level, plus 3 bedrooms and 1 bath upstairs—perfect for kids or guests. Includes a dedicated office and formal dining room.Interior features include granite countertops, split brick
Welcome to this stunning lakefront traditional brick home, thoughtfully built by John Eckenstaller and designed for comfort and elegance.Featuring 4 bedrooms and 3 full baths, this home offers exceptional craftsmanship and beautiful water views throughout. A circular front driveway creates a grand first impression. Inside, you'll find high ceilings, hardwood and tile flooring throughout the main
Welcome to a home that captures the heart of Fairhope living, where timeless charm and modern comfort come together on a beautifully spacious half acre lot. Tucked within a quiet neighborhood, this property offers the perfect balance of privacy, space, and convenience. Step inside to an inviting layout filled with natural light, flowing seamlessly from the formal dining room into a warm and
**Fully Re-Piped | New Hot Water Heater | Turnkey Coastal Gem **Step into effortless living with this beautifully updated, fully furnished 2-bedroom, 2-bath condo—where comfort, charm, and investment potential come together seamlessly. Tucked away in a quiet, established enclave just off Gayfer Road, this hidden gem places you minutes from the boutiques, dining, and storybook charm of
This beautiful 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath home is located approximately 1 mile from Downtown Fairhope, allowing you to walk or take a street-legal golf cart to enjoy shopping, dining, festivals, and the Fairhope Pier. You are also just minutes from the Fairhope Yacht Club, Mobile Bay, and the scenic Eastern Shore Trail. Situated on a quiet, low-traffic dead-end street, this home offers extra privacy,
A rare opportunity to own a fully reimagined residence in the heart of Fairhope. Completely transformed with quality and care, this home showcases all-new electrical, plumbing, flooring, beautifully remodeled baths and a stylish modern kitchen. Perfectly positioned on a large deeded lot, you're just a short walk from churches, charming downtown boutiques, local dining and the scenic beauty of the
Waterfront property that will never flood is priceless! And when you have almost 2 and 1⁄2 acres you just don’t ever have to worry about moving your vehicles in a flood. The water is deep at the dock! You can jump out of the boat house and never hit the bottom and deep enough for a large draft boat. The house is constructed from Old Clay City Brick, and if you are from around here you know how
Sitting on one acre of wooded privacy in Fairhope, 1/4 mile from Mullet Point Park boat launch and just 15 minutes to downtown Fairhope - this 4-bed, 2.5-bath home delivers 2,400 sq ft of elevated coastal living with the kind of peace and quiet that's hard to find. Custom built in 2023 with wraparound porches with indirect views of Mobile Bay set the tone before you even walk inside. Inside, tile
Cottages of Summer Lane is an exclusive 15-lot subdivision in beautiful Fairhope, designed with charm, convenience, and thoughtful planning. Each homesite features a rear-entry alley providing access for garages or carports, creating an attractive streetscape and a true cottage-style neighborhood feel. Located just minutes from downtown Fairhope, residents will enjoy quick access to the area’s
A rare opportunity to own a fully reimagined residence in the heart of Fairhope. Completely transformed with quality and care, this home showcases all-new electrical, plumbing, flooring, beautifully remodeled baths and a stylish modern kitchen. Perfectly positioned on a large deeded lot, you're just a short walk from churches, charming downtown boutiques, local dining and the scenic beauty of the
Rare rental opportunity in Point Clear! Charming move-in ready townhome in Pandion Ridge, conveniently located off Dairy Rd between Greeno Rd and Section St. Close to the Polo Fields and Mobile Bay and just minutes from downtown Fairhope. The primary bedroom is located downstairs, with two additional bedrooms upstairs. Hardwood floors in living area, freshly painted, new carpet. Nice indoor
A New Community in FairhopeAt The Flats at East Bay, modern coastal living comes to life. Perfectly located in Fairhope, AL, our thoughtfully designed apartments offer a seamless blend of refined interiors, resort-style amenities, and effortless connection to the beauty of Mobile Bay. Here, local shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences are just minutes away.Explore a curated collection of
Beautiful well maintained home nestled under the oak trees. Home has been professionally decorated and completely furnished by owners. First floor's furnished rooms are kitchen, breakfast area, living room with fireplace and TV, separate dining room, bedroom & bathroom with tub/shower, and laundry area with washer and dryer. Upstairs has a private suite with large walk-in shower, and two large
Elevate your lifestyle at Rockwell Place, where luxury homes have modern features and finishes, including granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, luxury vinyl plank flooring, and upgraded lighting fixtures.Discover moments of leisure or productivity in our convenient internet café. Immerse yourself in a realm of abundant amenities that are thoughtfully tailored to your needs,
This beautifully built 4-bedroom, 2-bath rental home offers modern comfort, functional space, and low-maintenance living. Inside, you’ll find an open, airy layout with granite countertops, durable EVP snap-lock flooring, and an energy-efficient LED lighting package throughout. The spacious kitchen flows easily into the main living area, making it ideal for everyday living and entertaining. The
Receive $2,000 OFF your rent over 2 months OR Get your 1st month FREE!!!! The Palladian at Fairhope puts a modern twist on private patio home living, blended with a lifestyle of luxury! We feature the largest most open floor plans in all of Fairhope! Have you ever seen an apartment with a 17' vaulted ceiling? How about an attached single car garage for your own private entry… Tired of looking for
Welcome to 510 Hardwood Ave, nestled in the heart of Fairhope, Alabama! This charming rental property offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and Southern charm. Step inside to discover a meticulously custom build 4BD/3BA home. The interior features hardwood floors throughout, a beautiful dining room, large living area focused around a gas fireplace. All features exude warmth and elegance.
Living in style is more enjoyable than ever at Old Battles Place luxury patio apartment homes. Combine the privacy of a traditional small southern neighborhood feel with superb service that makes daily life a pleasure. NO NOISY NEIGHBORS ABOVE OR BELOW! Seconds away from Fairhope's charming downtown area, it is considered the heart of Baldwin County. Fairhope is flush with historic buildings,
Amazing, remodeled Historic 1955 Fairhope cottage! Not only a great location close to the bay and all that downtown Fairhope has to offer, but includes a metal roof, additional 2 bedrooms, newer dishwasher, refinished wood floors, newer central heating and air conditioning and more. The fourth room could be an office/study or bedroom. The back yard is fenced, and this rental also has a screened
Discover the Cottages at Parkstone – Fairhope, Alabama's Premier Single-Family Home Rental Community!Nestled in the heart of Fairhope, our charming community offers the perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Choose from our thoughtfully designed 3- or 4-bedroom homes for rent, each featuring spacious interiors and modern amenities. Enjoy the tranquility of Southern living in a picturesque
This home has Charm! Located minutes from Downtown Fairhope, you're in walking distance from all Fairhope has to offer. You're also only 4 or 5 minutes from the Fairhope Pier. This home has been modernized with Granite Kitchen countertops and added to the beautiful hardwood flooring is some vinyl plank wood flooring. It has 2 spacious bedrooms and 2 baths plus a dining room, large living room,
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