A rebuilt city on the banks of the Tennessee River
“A hard nut to crack.” That is how Confederate Gen. John Bell Hood described the city of Decatur during the Civil War. The city changed hands several times during the war and served as a major combat zone during the Battle of Decatur in 1864, when a small group of Union soldiers prevented the Confederates from crossing the Tennessee River, forcing them west. The city was almost entirely burned down by the end of the war, but over time, it was rebuilt. Hood’s characterization was meant to portray the city as a problem, but its residents embraced the saying as a sign of resilience. Today, the saying is written on a downtown marker along its historical trail. “I love how community-oriented it is here,” says Vanessa Sivley, an agent with Merithouse Realty. “If there is a need, Decatur rises to it.” Today, Decatur is home to 58,000 people, with its hospital and school systems acting as major employers, as well as manufacturers like GE Appliances, the 3M Company and Daikin. About 25 miles from Huntsville, the city sits close to Redstone Arsenal military base and other facilities while celebrating its own history and culture.
Delano Park is only a few minutes from the Tennessee River.
Fairview is only a few minutes from the Tennessee River.
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Victorian-influenced homes in Decatur's historic downtown
The median home price for the city is $250,000, lower than the national median. The city’s historic downtown neighborhoods of Old Decatur and Albany are full of Victorian-influenced homes from the late 1880s and early 1900s. In West Decatur, bungalows and cottages are more prevalent. Homes tend to have higher values on the southern edges of the city in neighborhoods like Burningtree. These neighborhoods are often wooded and feature larger lots and long driveways. There are also some townhouses available throughout the city.
According to the FBI Crime Data Explorer, in recent years, the city’s violent crime rates and property crime rates have been higher than state and national figures.
Old Decatur combines historic architecture with modern conveinences.
Some larger Old Decatur homes feature expansive porches.
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A short drive to Huntsville International Airport
State Routes 20 and 67 wrap around the city, and Highway 31 runs through it, connecting drivers with Interstate 565 and Huntsville. The city is also close to I-65, which runs about 85 miles south to Birmingham. According to the 2021-2025 Plan for Decatur Downtown, the city is focused on fixing its city entries, connectors and sidewalks. Huntsville International Airport is about 20 miles northeast. Decatur Morgan Hospital, an affiliate of the Huntsville Health System, has 1,800 professionals across four locations.
Highly rated public schools and the Alabama Center for the Arts
Students are primarily served by Decatur City Schools, though some homes on the city’s outskirts are zoned for Morgan County Schools. Decatur City Schools serves nearly 9,000 students in 18 schools and has an A-minus Niche grade. Decatur High School has an A-minus score and is ranked by Niche as the second-most diverse public high school in the state. Private schools like Decatur Heritage Christian Academy, which has an A-minus grade, are also in the city.
The Alabama Center for the Arts, located on Second Avenue, is a partnership between Athens State University and Calhoun Community College. The center’s goal is to make the typical private arts college experience more affordable; tuition is about one-third the cost of most private arts colleges.
Old Decatur is home to the Carnegie Visual Artsw Center.
Decatur High School is connected to Decatur Middle School via skybridge.
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Carnegie Carnival is a tribute to Mardi Gras
The city’s Old Decatur and Albany downtown neighborhoods are its cultural hubs. The annual Carnegie Carnival is a multi-event celebration akin to Mardi Gras that takes place primarily in these neighborhoods, culminating in a float-filled parade on the Saturday before Fat Tuesday. The celebration benefits the Carnegie Visual Arts Center, a free-to-the-public art gallery that provides education in several subjects through hands-on learning. The Princess Theatre has been open since 1919 and received an Art Deco rejuvenation in 1941, which is how it stands today. The venue mainly hosts concerts. From April to November, the Morgan County-Decatur Farmers Market is active four days a week. Other museums and cultural centers can also be found downtown.
There are several large historic homes in Decatur
Old Decatur is home to Simp McGhee's cajun restaurant.
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Delano Park is the city's "emerald jewel"
Decatur has 28 parks, designed to provide recreation and break up the urban landscape of the city’s downtown. The 28-acre Delano Park, first designed in 1887, remains the historic downtown’s “emerald jewel.” Its features include tennis courts, a rose garden and a sculpture garden. At more than 700 acres, Point Mallard Park contains an 18-hole golf course, a waterpark and campgrounds. It is also used to host events like a reenactment of the Battle for Decatur, held annually over Labor Day weekend. South of Point Mallard is the Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge, a 35,000-acre reserve that protects 12 endangered or at-risk species, including sandhill cranes. The Festival of the Cranes, a multi-day event celebrating the cranes’ migration, is held each January throughout the city. Decatur also has facilities for youth sports, an archery park and a disc golf course.
Delano Park features a unique rose garden.
Delano Park features a unique playground and sculpture garden.
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Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q invented Alabama white sauce
Decatur is the home of Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q, which invented the now-famous Alabama white sauce in the 1920s. The restaurant’s long-time downtown location still stands, and it added a second location near the Westmead neighborhood in 1992. Most of the city’s upscale restaurants are in Old Decatur. Southern restaurants are common, and several specialize in seafood. 609 Social Market & Provisions serves classic American dishes and holds a fish market from Tuesday to Saturday. On Old Decatur’s Bank Street sit several shops filled with antiques, boutique clothes and jewelry. More shops can be found on Second Avenue.
Big Bob Gibson BBQ in an award winning BBQ restaurant near Flint City.
Big Bob Gibson BBQ in an award winning BBQ restaurant near Old Decatur.
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Decatur residents experience the four seasons
The city experiences four seasons, with hotter summers and milder winters. Sivley says the city can experience snow, though not every year. The city is at a higher-than-average risk of tornadoes. Parts of downtown near the Tennessee River have an increased flood risk.
Bungalows and cottages can be found throughout Old Decatur.
Tanner is bordered on the south by the Tennessee River.
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Written By
Ryan Kohn
Photography Contributed By
Aaron Bloodworth
Video By
Jaried Frogosa
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Jeff York,
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 Decatur, AL sell after 71 days on the market compared to the national average of 58 days. The median sale price for homes in Decatur, AL over the last 12 months is $220,000, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to this charming one-level townhouse in the heart of Decatur! This freshly painted 2-bedroom, 2-bath end unit offers both comfort and convenience, perfectly positioned on a desirable corner lot with a spacious yard—ideal for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying a little extra outdoor space. Inside, you’ll find a functional and inviting layout designed for easy living, all on one
Welcome to low-maintenance luxury living in the highly desirable Greystone Subdivision! This beautifully maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath brick patio home offers an exceptional floor plan, a rare 3-car garage, Guests are welcomed by a charming covered front porch and inviting foyer. The spacious formal dining room flows seamlessly into the impressive 20' x 17' great room featuring soaring 10-foot
Under Construction-Priceville school district! Nature's Walk at Wheeler on Upper River Rd where convenience and a peaceful setting come together. The Melissa with 4 bedrooms and 2 baths has lots of great open space and upscale features that are considered upgrades in other new builds. The kitchen has soft close drawers and doors, beautiful pendant lighting over the island, gas range, tile
Set on just under three-quarters of an acre within city limits, this 2,785 sq ft brick home offers the space and privacy most buyers can only find outside of town without sacrificing any of the convenience. Three bedrooms, three and a half baths, and a layout that actually lives up to the square footage. The gas log fireplace creates a warm, inviting centerpiece in the main living area, and the
Charming Split Bedroom Design in a Highly Desired Neighborhood, DEERFOOT! This 3BR/2BA home blends comfort and style w/ hardwood flooring flowing through the living, dining, and hallway spaces. The inviting living room centers around a cozy gas log fireplace, creating the perfect place to gather. The kitchen features rich cherry-stained cabinetry, breakfast bar, pantry, and a built-in microwave,
TIMELESS ELEGANT HISTORIC HOME BUILT IN 1918 in downtown Decatur, just a short stroll to Bank Street's restaurants & shops. This 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath treasure blends historic character with modern convenience. Gorgeous hardwood floors, 10foot ceilings, gas log fireplace, built-in bookcases, 2 bedrooms and a study grace the main level. The dream kitchen features open shelving, farmhouse sink,
Step into this welcoming, move-in ready home in Decatur, Alabama. With 4 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms, the layout feels both cozy and spacious, flowing comfortably from room to room. The main living area and separate den create ideal spaces for relaxing or entertaining. The kitchen features granite countertops and opens into the dining area, filled with natural light from the glass door leading to
Charming 3-bedroom, 2-bath home situated on a desirable corner lot. Enjoy a pleasant view of the pond across the street from the 10 ft × 13 ft lifetime PVC deck, where the color-changing fountain creates a beautiful nighttime backdrop. The property features lifetime PVC fencing for low-maintenance outdoor living and includes a storage shed with a new roof. Inside, the living room offers true
Welcome home to this charming one-level townhouse in the heart of Decatur! This freshly painted 2-bedroom, 2-bath end unit offers both comfort and convenience, perfectly positioned on a desirable corner lot with a spacious yard—ideal for relaxing, entertaining, or enjoying a little extra outdoor space. Inside, you’ll find a functional and inviting layout designed for easy living, all on one
Timeless character and thoughtful updates in this well-kept home near Austin Jr. High. Hardwood floors throughout, living room and family room, fireplace with built-ins, eat-in kitchen with new cabinetry and marble countertops, vintage black and white baths, and a laundry room that doubles as a pantry. The 19x20 covered patio connects to the kitchen and 21x26 garage, and the backyard has real
Opportunities like this don’t come around twice.,this one-owner home is a rare find in Decatur, Alabama—meticulously cared for and filled with years of pride in ownership. With over 3,,000 square feet, this spacious split-level layout offers five bedrooms and three full baths, giving you the flexibility and room to grow, host, and truly settle in.Situated on a desirable corner lot, the property
Custom-built for easy living with thoughtful upgrades throughout. 4 bed, 3 bath with open living spaces and two beds/two baths on the main level. No carpet—LVP and tile throughout, full tile in baths and kitchen, on-demand hot water heater and enhanced, zoned HVAC for efficiency and comfort. Flexible front room for dining or office, island + breakfast seating, plus upstairs loft living with 2
NOW LISTED BELOW ITS RECENT APPRAISED VALUE OF $600,000, this remarkable historic home offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of history while creating your own vision. Featuring soaring ceilings, sheet glass historic windows, spectacular trim moldings and baseboards, and a cozy library, the home showcases timeless craftsmanship throughout. Large entertainment spaces, a charming guest house,
3 bed, 2 bath home on 2± wooded acres offering privacy and convenience! Ideally located near schools, medical offices, restaurants, and shopping. Enjoy a spacious living room with great natural light. The kitchen features abundant cabinets, pantry, and included appliances, flowing into a dedicated dining area. Laundry closet and a separate office add everyday convenience. The primary suite
Luxury and elegance meets comfort w this custom built estate sized home&private lot in SW. 2 story foyer flanked by formal dining& office w spiral staircase. 2 story livingoom w 2 way fireplace&floor to ceiling windows overlooking the 25x50 gunite pool w sunledge. Gourmet kitchen w curved island+separate brk bar &brk table area, granite counters, dbl ovens, gas range cooktop, ice machine,
Don’t miss your chance to make this rare and stunning property your home—call today! Sorry, no pets allowed. Qualification Requirements: No smoking/vaping Credit score- minimum 600 Rental history - payments made on time in last 12 months; No evictions Gross monthly income- typically 2-3 times the monthly rent No violent criminal history
3BR-2BA - Our 1250 SF, 3 bedroom - 2 bath apartments have everything you’re looking for! Spacious bedrooms with walk in closet, fully equipped kitchen, washer/dryer hookups, separate dining area, relaxing patio or balcony, and much more!(RLNE3180740)
Welcome home to this charming property featuring spacious living areas, abundant natural light, and thoughtful updates throughout. The versatile loft provides the perfect space for a third bedroom, home office, playroom, or flex area to fit your lifestyle. Enjoy the convenience of a 2-car attached garage offering ample storage and easy access. With inviting indoor and outdoor spaces, this home
Enjoy lakeside living at beautiful Albany Landing apartments, next to Johnson Pond in Decatur, Alabama. Our well-maintained, one, two, and three-bedroom apartment homes feature classic architectural details, fully-equipped kitchens with dishwashers and solid wood cabinetry, updated lighting, hardwood and wood-look flooring, and neutral finishes throughout. Our homes offer modern conveniences that
Small boutique apartment community nestled in a subdivision of homes. Located near the medical center, fine dining, lots of shopping, churches, and great schools.
Welcome to your new home! Our affordable housing community offers comfortable and budget-friendly living spaces designed to meet the needs of individuals and families at various income levels. Our 1, 2, and 3 bedroom apartments are located in a vibrant, accessible neighborhood, they provide easy access to public transportation, local schools, healthcare facilities, restaurants, and shopping
Welcome to Rhodes Ferry Apartments, a residential community featuring one and two bedroom apartments in Decatur, AL. Spacious layouts and amenities welcome you home, along with exceptional service and an ideal location within walking distance to shopping, dining and entertainment options. Are you looking for an apartment for rent in Decatur, AL? Contact our friendly, professional office staff to
Huntington Place Townhomes is a small, quaint complex with all 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathrooms, spread across 2 floors. There is ample storage both inside and outside. The upstairs master bedroom opens to the upper balcony for additional relaxation or entertainment space. Downstairs has open floorplan living/dining/kitchen with laundry hookups. The kitchen opens up to the back, covered patio.
The management team at Greenbrier Apartments invites you to visit our 950 sq ft, 2 bedroom and 1 bath apartments. Your new home awaits with spacious living areas for relaxing and entertaining, a fully equipped kitchen, ample storage space, and an in-unit washer and dryer for your convenience. To be enjoyed by your children and pets, we also suggest requesting one of our units with a fenced
**Self guided tours available from 7am to 8pm, 7 days a week! Visit the leasing office to start the tour- no appointment needed!**Experience the charm of Decatur, AL, at Axis on Beltline. Nestled along the scenic Tennessee River and Wheeler Lake, our community offers the perfect blend of natural beauty and urban convenience. Located just off Highway 67, you'll be minutes away from the
Sandwiched between the cities of Athens and Decatur is Tanner — a rural, unincorporated community in the heart of Alabama's Limestone County. Tanner lacks a diverse selection of shopping and dining destinations, and that's partially what draws people there. Locals treasure the quiet, easygoing lifestyle of North Alabama's scenic countryside, and with the Swan Creek Wildlife Management Area just a short drive away, residents have the natural beauty of the Tennessee River right in their backyard. "Some people move in not planning to stay long-term, but end up liking the area," says Luther Smith, a broker at Century 21 J and L Realty, who has over 16 years of real estate experience.
Tanner offers plenty of recreation for outdoorsmen. Swan Creek Wildlife Management Area consumes much of Tanner's southside along the Tennessee River, serving as a top spot for local hunters. Marksmen also frequent Swan Creek Wildlife Management Area Shooting Range to practice their hand-eye in preparation for hunting season. Little Leaguers, meanwhile, can gather for batting practice at the nearby Fred Frickie Park.
Tanner features a wide range of home styles and frameworks. New Traditionals and brick Greek Revivals with large, sprawling yards dominate Houston Place, while established ranch-styles and manufactured homes line the community's flat roads cutting through vast farmland. Older, smaller homes usually price between $100,000 and $200,000, but larger, newer properties with four or more bedrooms can range from $500,000 to $800,000. Given its rural setting, homes in Tanner often spend up to three months or more on the market — far longer than the national average of 42 days.
Students in Tanner are served by the Limestone County School District. Kids attend Tanner Elementary School, which earns an overall grade of B-minus from Niche, before advancing to Tanner High School, which shares the elementary school's campus, for Grades 6 through 12. Earning a B rating, Tanner High has a total enrollment of just over 400 students, making for smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning experience. "A smaller student population means more opportunities for someone to be the football hero or the head cheerleader," Smith says. After high school, teens may enroll at Calhoun Community College on Tanner's southside.
Tanner is not walkable and does not offer public transportation options, so vehicle access is essential for most residents. However, locals are only a 6-mile drive from Athens, while Decatur is just 10 miles south. Route 31 serves as the thoroughfare between the towns. Huntsville, Alabama's largest city, is also roughly 25 miles east, accessible via Interstate 565 on Tanner's southside.
Shopping and dining options are scarce in Tanner, though there are several restaurants and grocery stores closer to Athens. For a quick bite, the roadside Ramona J’s on Route 31 offers burgers, fries and chicken wings along with house-made desserts. For groceries, Dollar General is stationed on Huntsville Brownsferry Road, while Walmart Supercenter and Aldi sit within a mile of each other on Route 72, roughly 5 miles north of Tanner. Those working in agriculture can also pick up equipment from Tennessee Valley Co-op on Route 31.
Local Logic measures the walkability, access to public transit and bikeability of any address. CAP Index provides objective, accurate, and consistent data to help measure, compare, and mitigate crime risks.
Disclaimer: Certain information contained herein is derived from information provided by parties other than Homes.com. Our sources include: Accuweather, Public Records and Neustar. All information provided is deemed reliable, but is not guaranteed to be accurate and should be independently verified.
