In central Alabama's Alexander City, home to the 40,000-acre Lake Martin, water is a way of life. The 14,000-plus "Alex City" residents know all the best spots to swim, cast a line or sunbathe on the shore. "I was born and raised here, so I grew up on the lake," says Realtor Sam Spurlin, co-owner of RE/MAX Around the Lake. "I've always enjoyed boating with my friends and family and love the area's natural beauty." While Lake Martin is a recreational hub, Alex City's historic downtown draws shoppers and diners to locally owned boutiques and restaurants. "Downtown is beautiful," Spurlin says. "And while we don't have a lot of shopping, it has a couple of shops people love to go to."
The Alexander City 2024 Comprehensive Plan outlines the city's goals for the next 10 years, including designating areas for new housing, revitalizing the Avondale Historic District and creating a community town square downtown that would serve as a multiuse space. Alex City is the largest city in Tallapoosa County. Major employers include the Russell Medical Center and Prime Healthcare.
Explore the charming small town of Alexander City.
Enjoy the beauty that the lake lifestyle provides in Alexander City.
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Lakefront living and historic homes downtown
The median home price in Alexander City is around $275,000, about $100,000 less than the national median. Historic houses, including Queen Annes, Colonial Revivals and Craftsmans, are mostly found downtown, while midcentury ranch-style and split-level homes are located across the city. Houses in communities near or on Lake Martin, where many homes have been recently built, can sell for over $1 million.
You can purchase your dream lake house and make memories with family in Alexander City.
Ranch style homes add a cozy option for Alexander City residents.
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Fishing tournaments on Lake Martin and city events
Lake Martin is a focal point for outdoor recreation, including fishing, boating and water sports. Many residents who live on the lake have a private dock, but the Alexander City Boat Ramp offers public access. Wind Creek State Park also provides public access to the lake. With Lake Martin's large bass population, fishing tournaments frequently take place throughout the year; the Alabama B.A.S.S. Nation Tournament and the Jim Landers Memorial Tournament are among the popular annual events.
The city operates four inland parks and the public Lakewinds Golf Course. The Charles E. Bailey Senior Sportplex is a hub of recreational sports and hosts annual events Oktoberfest and Christmas in the Park. Downtown's Strand Park is one of the sites of the summer Alexander City Jazz Festival, one of the city's biggest events.
Toss a line at the lake in Alexander City and see what you can catch.
Rent a boat and explore the lake at Wind Creek State Park in Alexander City.
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Applied science degrees at CACC
Alexander City Schools scores an overall B on Niche and serves around 3,000 students. Central Alabama Community College (CACC) offers associate's degrees in applied science, including automotive manufacturing, general business and nursing.
Further your education at Central Alabama Community College in Alexander City.
Benjamin Russell High School is a great place to learn.
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Local boutiques downtown and shopping along Highway 280
Downtown Alexander City is a compact, walkable area of brick-clad stores, restaurants and local businesses. There's also a Piggly Wiggly downtown and the Alexander City Farmers Market, open Saturdays from June to September. More restaurants and stores are concentrated along U.S. Highway 280. "We just got a Publix, which is huge," Spurlin says. "Everyone is excited about that; we've been begging for 12 years. We also just got a Chick-fil-A a year or so ago." There is also dining along Lake Martin.
Take a shopping trip and explore the local stores in Alexander City.
Grab a delicious bite to eat at Jake's Restaurant in Alexander City.
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Hot summers and mild winters
Summers are hot in Alexander City, and winters are mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing. According to First Street, the city has a major risk from heat. As of December 2024, residents had made public officials aware of their complaints about the city's water quality. Officials say this is partly due to Lake Martin's high temperatures, little rainfall and algae blooms.
Crime statistics for Alexander City are not readily available.
Birmingham about a 70-mile drive
U.S. Highway 280 runs through Alexander City, connecting with Birmingham about 72 miles northwest. State Route 63 and State Route 22 are additional major roadways. Tallapoosa County offers ARISE transit, an on-demand service with limited hours. Russell Medical Center is just south of downtown, and the Montgomery Regional Airport is 60 miles away.
Written By
Brennen Martin
Photography Contributed By
John Gibbons
Video By
Jarrod Bock
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Reach out to
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GreatSchools:
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On average, homes in Alexander City, AL sell after 45 days on the market compared to the national average of 70 days. The median sale price for homes in Alexander City, AL over the last 12 months is $855,000, down 5% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
These beautiful, spacious Lake Martin lots on Lake Martin in Windover has +/-120 ft of waterfront is perfect to build your dream home! Located in a protected cove. Conveniently located to Catherine's Market, Kowaliga, Ridge Marina, Springhouse Restaurant etc... Features a great water view. Boating, fishing and fun just waiting for you! See today!
4.91 Acre Getaway Near Lake Martin Cottage Comfort Meets RV-Ready Living. Discover peaceful country living just minutes from Lake Martin. This versatile 4.91-acre property features a private pond, multiple potential RV pad locations, & a beautifully maintained 2023- 2BR/2BA cottage, ideal for full-time living, weekend getaways, multi-use living or rental income setup. The home is energy-efficient
Great home on a great street where the neighbors feel like family. At least that is what they say. This home has so much character and talk about a back yard. The privacy and room for many family gatherings is waiting for you. There is plenty of storage and closet space with beautiful LVP flooring. Sit on the screened in front porch or the cute little side porch and enjoy life.
These beautiful, spacious Lake Martin lots on Lake Martin in Windover has +/-120 ft of waterfront is perfect to build your dream home! Located in a protected cove. Conveniently located to Catherine's Market, Kowaliga, Ridge Marina, Springhouse Restaurant etc... Features a great water view. Boating, fishing and fun just waiting for you! See today!
4.91 Acre Getaway Near Lake Martin Cottage Comfort Meets RV-Ready Living. Discover peaceful country living just minutes from Lake Martin. This versatile 4.91-acre property features a private pond, multiple potential RV pad locations, & a beautifully maintained 2023- 2BR/2BA cottage, ideal for full-time living, weekend getaways, multi-use living or rental income setup. The home is energy-efficient
Great home on a great street where the neighbors feel like family. At least that is what they say. This home has so much character and talk about a back yard. The privacy and room for many family gatherings is waiting for you. There is plenty of storage and closet space with beautiful LVP flooring. Sit on the screened in front porch or the cute little side porch and enjoy life.
Welcome to Crestview Apartments, where comfortable living meets everyday convenience in the heart of Alexander City. Our apartments feature a practical layout and include essential appliances like a stove, refrigerator, and over-the-range microwave.Each unit comes with washer/dryer hookups, giving you the flexibility to set up your own laundry space.Located at 296 Oak St W in the
Azalea Court I Apartments - Alexander City, AL - Beautiful and spacious 1 bedroom / 1 bath apartment located in Alexander City. This newly renovated apartment features hardwood floors, ceiling fans and 2" faux wood blinds through-out. The kitchen features black 'Energy Star' appliances, lots of cabinet space and a pantry for extra storage! Pets are allowed with a
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