Established in 1908 along the eastern shore of Mobile Bay, Fairhope, Alabama, is best known to visitors for its charming attractions like bayfront parks by the municipal pier, clean sandy beaches, delectable cuisine, and eclectic mom-and-pop shops in the artsy downtown district. Fairhope locals like us—your friends here by the pier at the Fairhope Store—love and cherish these tourist attractions, indeed, but there's so much more to enjoy about being in Fairhope when you're a resident.

Future Fairhope residents, here's a glimpse from locals into what makes Fairhope a lovable place to live and a worthy place to call home, as well as some important information on the lifestyle, cost of living, safety, and opportunities that await you here!

Fairhope, AL Population and Demographics

As a gem in the world of filmmaking, a rising star in reality television, and a frequent event holder, we attract many tourists. Many visitors are so charmed by this magical place and soothed by the relaxing atmosphere that the next thing you know, after their earliest visits, they're moving in next door and choosing to become residents; according to annual census reports, we're growing a lot lately.

Our current population of ~20.3K is a substantial 20% increase from our size five years ago and 2.8% since 2023. Although we have grown rather quickly, we're still a relatively small town in Alabama and still have plenty of room to grow!

Cost of Living in Fairhope, Alabama

Our cost of living in Fairhope is very promising for newcomers to suburban towns by the bay; it's lower than the national average and much of Alabama. The town provides excellent amenities, from well-maintained parks to various local groceries, pharmacies, and restaurants. Plus, with Fairhope's natural beauty, we think the cost of living here is well worth it.

Rent and Real Estate Prices

Here's how Fairhope's real estate compares to towns across the nation and state:

• The median housing price in Fairhope, AL, is above both the state and national averages, likely due to many celebrities and longstanding families living in large, brilliant beach houses.
• Fairhope, AL, soars far above the national and state average when it comes to the number of owner-occupied homes in town.
• We have an extremely low population of renters here compared with the national and state average. Because once you move out here, you'll never want to leave!

How Safe Is Fairhope, Alabama?

• Overall crime rate is below the national average by 26.3%.
• Sidewalks and public buildings are pedestrian-friendly, walkable, well-lit, and ample security lighting,
• It is a perfect and safe place for individuals needing disability equal opportunity accommodation in public spaces, young couples, new families with children, seniors, and more!

Working in Fairhope, AL

There are so many opportunities for work in Fairhope, especially if you, like most residents, are an art collector, artist, engineer, master craftsman, culinary expert, or business owner. You know that without a doubt after you've first gone shopping in downtown Fairhope or the French Quarter.

The biggest draw to this amazing place is its ever-so-peaceful, laid-back vibe and small-town feel. So even if you work in a building all day in Fairhope, there's always paradise waiting outside to greet you between your shifts.

Education in Fairhope, AL

Something that inspires families to move to Fairhope is the safe and enriching schools here, where locals can feel good about sending their children or being students themselves. Despite the Baldwin County school district's C-ranking, Fairhope schools are known for their students' success in academia, the arts, sports, and college readiness.

School Transportation

Free bus transportation is provided for children in grades K-12 in the mornings and afternoons before and after school, traveling within Fairhope city limits or other parameters set by the school board.

Fairhope West Elementary

• Preschool through sixth grade
• Above-average math and reading proficiency scores
• School district's best classroom size (1:17 teacher-to-student ratio).
• Ranked #36 in Alabama's Best Elementary Schools

Fairhope Middle School

• Seventh and eighth grade
• Above average reading proficiency ranked #13 out of 400+ Alabama middle schools by state dept. of education.
• Above average math proficiency ranked #4 out of 400+ Alabama middle schools by state dept. of education.

Fairhope High School

The quality of education for teens attending Fairhope High School (9th-12th grade) is exceptional; there's a 92% graduation rate, and we're ranked in the top 30 Alabama high schools!

Art School—All Ages

If you have a career in art or want to pursue one, living in Fairhope, Alabama, offers many opportunities to study and create art with the help of fine art professionals and connoisseurs at Eastern Shore Art Center. At ESAC, students of all ages at any experience level can study and create art in their preferred traditional or modern medium.

Is It Worth Moving to Fairhope, AL?

Absolutely! We may be biased, but as we often chronicle on our blog, we're here because Living here is a rewarding experience for newcomers and longstanding families alike. It blends the hospitality and warmth of a family-friendly home in a small town in the South with an inclusive community and the harmony, creativity, and pure fun of coastal living. Our community has a rich history, and we are proud of the natural land we preserve here. We are glad to grow our amazing city with newcomers.

There are endless things we love about Fairhope, Alabama, and not just for longtime residents; this city has everything to welcome, entertain, and support nature-loving, creative families of all ages and backgrounds. Besides, who wouldn't want to live at the beach?

Explore More with The Fairhope Store

At the Fairhope Store, we're passionate about our town and all it has to offer. Whether you're a visitor or a new resident, we invite you to explore our wide range of products that capture the spirit of Fairhope. From local crafts to unique gifts, our store is a reflection of the creativity and charm that define our community. Stop by and discover why Fairhope is a place so many are proud to call home.

Thank you for joining us on this journey through Fairhope here on our blog. We look forward to welcoming you to our town and helping you find everything you need to make your life here as delightful as possible. Visit us down by the pier, and let us show you the best of bay life.