Anniston’s industrial decline in the Appalachian foothills
The Calhoun County seat of Anniston sprawls across the low-rolling Appalachian foothills just west of Talladega National Forest, roughly halfway between Birmingham and the Alabama-Georgia state line. For years, this community was home to a thriving piping industry — it was once nicknamed “The Soil Pipe Capital of the World” — and a busy military base. But the country’s shift toward technological warfare and deindustrialization hurt the local economy. “It was very much a military town,” says longtime resident Anna King, broker-owner of ERA King Real Estate. “After [the fort] closed, it got to be very close-knit.” Anniston’s population has decreased every decade since the 1960s, a trend officials hope to stem with new developments like the 38-acre retail development, Summerall, and Katt Williams’s incoming movie studio, Kemet Movie Works.
Anniston’s station connects riders to Birmingham, Atlanta and regional stops.
Tree-lined Anniston streets feature sidewalks and welcoming front yards.
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The Freedom Riders National Monument in Anniston
The community made international headlines in 1961 when a bus of Freedom Riders protesting segregated public transit was stopped and firebombed by white supremacists. The site of the tragedy — formerly a Greyhound bus station — is now home to the Freedom Riders National Monument, a key stop on the Anniston Civil Rights Trail.
Freedom Riders National Monument marks the 1961 bus attack site in Anniston.
A vintage Greyhound sits as a tribute for the 1961 Freedom Riders attack in Anniston.
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Outdoor activities and nature spots around Anniston
Anniston has two golf courses, several recreation centers and about 20 parks. Railways-turned-trails surround the city center, giving walkers, bikers and runners over 50 miles to explore. The Chief Ladiga Trail winds through almost 40 miles of hilly farms, forests and wetlands between Anniston and the Alabama-Georgia state line, where it meets Georgia’s Silver Comet Trail, which runs another 60 miles east to Atlanta’s outskirts. Access to Talladega National Forest’s hiking trails, creeks, waterfalls and wildlife is off Interstate 20, about 10 miles from central Anniston.
Zinn Park offers shaded picnic areas and playgrounds in Anniston.
Anniston Municipal golf course is one two golf courses that welcomes year-round play.
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Median home price, architectural styles and environmental hazards in Anniston
The median sale price for homes in Anniston is around $170,000. Vintage 19th-century cottages and Victorians are scattered around Historic Downtown Anniston, often on the same street as early 20th-century bungalows and shotgun-style homes. Midcentury ranch-style houses and split-level properties are also popular. Tornadoes can occur anytime, but the season is from March to May. Homeowners are strongly encouraged to invest in insurance for wind and hail damage. Anniston has a history of water contamination stemming from a Monsanto plant that closed in the 1970s, but current contaminant levels are safe by federal standards. “We were actually known as ‘toxic town’ at one point. It was trouble,” King says. “But all that’s been cleaned up.”
Brightly painted wood-paneled homes in Anniston offer spacious porches.
Anniston homes sometimes showcase bold roofs and distinctive window designs.
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For now, the commercial scene is mostly in Oxford, less than 5 miles away
Pick 'n Save is the main grocery store in town. Staple restaurant Effina's serves authentic Italian fare on Noble Street, next to popular sports bar Rack & Roll Billiards. Most traffic comes through Anniston’s south side, so its commercial presence is focused there, where it borders Oxford, a small city with a popular mall. “Anniston and Oxford go hand-in-hand,” King says. “From my house, I can be in Oxford in 2 minutes, it’s just down the road.” Quintard Mall, anchored by Dillard’s and JCPenney, is the closest choice for retail therapy, only about 4 miles south of central Anniston. Oxford Exchange is also nearby, featuring various chains, from familiar restaurants like Jim 'N Nick's Bar-B-Q to retailers like Old Navy to big-box stores like Walmart. The Summerall development will bring more shopping options, such as Aldi, to Anniston’s north side. Efforts to revitalize its downtown are ongoing. The main hospital, Regional Medical Center, is just outside downtown.
Exploring educational opportunities at Anniston City Schools
Anniston City Schools serves around 1,900 students across five schools and earns an overall C-minus on Niche. The community has only one middle school — Anniston Middle — and one high school — Anniston High — both are graded C-minus. High school students can explore fields of interest by enrolling in the culinary arts program and STEM programs, or even by working as a teller at the school’s on-site bank.
Walter Wellborn High School supports academics and athletics west of Anniston.
Anniston High School offers STEM and culinary programs for local students.
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Major routes connect Anniston to Birmingham and beyond
Anniston is just under 65 miles east of Birmingham and 90 miles west of Atlanta. I-20 is a direct route into both of their downtown areas, while U.S. Route 21 and 431 provide access to commercial and residential areas throughout Anniston. The Areawide Community Transportation System offers fixed bus routes with paratransit options; residents can ride the Greyhound and Amtrak. The Birmingham-Shuttlesworth International Airport is almost 60 miles west.
Written By
Micaela Willoughby
Photography Contributed By
Luke Mancari
Video By
Mark Barakat
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On average, homes in Anniston, AL sell after 52 days on the market compared to the national average of 55 days. The median sale price for homes in Anniston, AL over the last 12 months is $235,000, up 12% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Beautifully redone home located in the heart of Anniston. This five-bedroom, two-full-bath property offers versatility as a multi-residence or multifamily property.Key features include:Two bedrooms upstairs, a large kitchen, a full bathroom, and a bonus room.The bottom level consists of three bedrooms, a kitchen, one full bath, and a storm shelter.This property is ideal for a growing family or
***$3,000 Seller Concessions/CC Credit with accepted offer!!***Welcome to this spacious 5-bedroom, 3-bath brick ranch located in the highly desirable Hillyer Highlands neighborhood of East Anniston. With approximately 3,570 square feet of living space, this home offers room to grow, and create lasting memories.The home features a brand-new roof (2025), hardwood flooring, two gas
Experience luxury and natural beauty with this exceptional estate on 200 acres in White Plains. The property reaches a mountain peak between Camp Lee, UNITED STATES FISH & WILDLIFE SERVICES, and Bains Gap, with extensive hiking and mule trails weaving through its breathtaking landscape. The 4-bedroom, each with an on-suite, home blends elegance and comfort. Enjoy a spacious living room, cozy den,
"4-Sided Brick Beauty with 3,500 Sq Ft of Modern Living Near Pine Hill Golf!” Stunning 4-sided brick home in sought-after White Plains School District, just minutes from Pine Hill Golf Course. This fully renovated 4BR, 3.5BA home boasts 3,500 sq ft with 1,000 sq ft of new living space. The chef’s kitchen shines with quartz countertops, custom wood cabinetry, 5-burner gas convection stove,
Spacious 7-bedroom, 5-bath full brick home in the highly desirable Cider Ridge Subdivision! This beautifully designed property offers two levels plus a finished basement, making it perfect for large families or those who love to entertain. Inside, you’ll find gorgeous hardwood floors, a stunning sunken living room, a formal dining room, and a 2-car garage. A main-level bedroom with a full bath
Discover the perfect spot to build your dream home or investment property on this conveniently located vacant lot. Just minutes from both Highway 78 and Interstate 20, this lot offers unparalleled access to everything Oxford has to offer. Enjoy the proximity to shopping, dining, and entertainment, all while being nestled in a serene, yet accessible area. Whether you’re looking to create a
Move in ready! This clean home has a split 2 bedroom plan, 2 full baths and a large living room open to the eat-in kitchen. This mobile home park is very well kept and clean. Convenient to Anniston, Alexandria & Jacksonville. This home is on a leased lot rent of $325 per month.
Prime 1 acre lot in desirable Windwood Estates. Perfect opportunity to build your custom dream home with plenty of space. Bring your plans and your builder!
Here's an opportunity to purchase a good lot to build your home on! Located near Blue Mountain Baptist Church, this lot is level, cleared and ready for you to break ground!
A sweeping circle driveway welcomes you home to this stunning 4,015 sq ft retreat sitting on 1.2 private acres, blending rustic character with modern comfort in all the right ways. The main level primary suite is a true retreat, offering a spacious walk-in closet and en suite bath. The kitchen is a showstopper, crisp white cabinets, rich butcher block countertops, and a sliding barn door leading
Motivated Seller! The historic Peerless Saloon is located in the heart of downtown Anniston, Alabama's Entertainment District. In 1985, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In its earlier days, The Peerless Saloon was best known for the whiskey served there, which was produced by the original owner. The saloon's most interesting feature is its massive mirror-backed mahogany
Exceptional Victorian-era duplex with strong income potential. Unit A offers 2 bedrooms, 2 ensuite baths, formal dining room with chandelier, and updated kitchen with granite countertops, red tile backsplash, white cabinetry, gas range, and dishwasher. Unit B features 4 bedrooms, 2 full baths, 2 half baths, butler pantry, sunroom, family room with French doors, and kitchen with large island,
Indian Hills Apartment Homes. Tucked in the foothills of Cheaha and surrounded by trees, Indian Hills is a quiet, hidden gem located between Oxford and Anniston. This peaceful community offers large floor plans, affordable pricing and a welcoming neighborhood feel. Indian Hills offers cozy front patios, private balconies and large back patios, depending on the layout, perfect for relaxing or
NOW OFFERING MOVE IN SPECIALS : waived application fees when you lease within 24 hours OR $1,200 in annual savings for local heroes. Indian Hills 1 bed/1 bath apartments are a quiet, hidden gem located between Oxford and Anniston. This peaceful community offers large floor plans, affordable pricing, and a welcoming neighborhood feel. Now under new management and updating select units, Indian
Arbours at Cane Creek is an Affordable Housing Community offering Two, Three, and Four Bedroom Apartment Homes. Apartments feature full size Washer/Dryers, Built in Microwaves, and Sleek Black Appliances. Our community offers something for everyone with the Grilling Area, Splash Pad, and Fitness Center. Arbours at Cane Creek is available to those with moderate incomes. Please check the
NOW OFFERING MOVE IN SPECIALS: waived application fees when you lease within 24 hours OR $1,200 in annual savings for local heroes! Located in Golden Springs, WoodValley's 1 bed/1 bath offers comfort, convenience, and affordability — just minutes from Oxford and Anniston. This ground-level community is designed for easy living with sidewalks to each unit, a compact layout, and spacious living
Coleman Place Apartments offers fine living in Anniston, Alabama located in the White Plains School District.Our community offers an unparalleled spaciousness that ensures comfortable family living. Fully equipped kitchens with a separate living and dining area. For our residents craving some fresh air, they can just step out onto their personal patio!As a Coleman resident, there
NOW OFFERING MOVE IN SPECIALS: waived application fees when you lease within 24 hours OR $1,200 in annual savings for local heroes! Located in Golden Springs, WoodValley's 2 bed/1 bath units offer comfort, convenience, and affordability — just minutes from Oxford and Anniston. This ground-level community is designed for easy living with sidewalks to each unit, a compact layout, and spacious
Wood Valley Apartments located in the heart of Golden Springs. Wood Valley offers comfort, convenience and affordability just minutes from Oxford and Anniston. This ground level community is designed for easy living with sidewalks to each unit, a compact layout, yet spacious living areas perfect for entertaining. Studio, one and two bedroom unit options available
NOW OFFERING MOVE IN SPECIALS: waived application fees when you lease within 24 hours OR $1,200 in annual savings for local heroes. Indian Hills 3 bed/2.5 bath apartments are a quiet, hidden gem located between Oxford and Anniston. This peaceful community offers large floor plans, affordable pricing, and a welcoming neighborhood feel. Now under new management and updating select units, Indian
Quiet, family friendly community. Units available now. Come find your next place to live. Please reach out to learn more! Electric and power will need to be in your name. All units no smoking allowed, no pets allowed.
NOW OFFERING MOVE IN SPECIALS: waived application fees when you lease within 24 hours OR $1,200 in annual savings for local heroes. Indian Hills 2 bed/1.5 bath apartments are a quiet, hidden gem located between Oxford and Anniston. This peaceful community offers large floor plans, affordable pricing, and a welcoming neighborhood feel. Now under new management and updating select units, Indian
Greenbrier Apartments complex is a thriving 100 unit apartment community conveniently located on Greenbrier Dear Road in Anniston, Alabama, just moments from I-20. Greenbrier apartments in Anniston have spacious 1- and 2 – bedroom units and offer unfurnished and fully furnished apartments. Corporate rental is available on all units. Furnished units include everything from furniture and linens
NOW OFFERING MOVE IN SPECIALS: waived application fees when you lease within 24 hours OR $1,200 in annual savings for local heroes! Located in Golden Springs, WoodValley's Studio/1 bath offers comfort, convenience, and affordability — just minutes from Oxford and Anniston. This ground-level community is designed for easy living with sidewalks to each unit, a compact layout, and spacious living
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