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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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 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Fairhope, AL over the last 12 months is $478,960, up 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Experience the charm of downtown Fairhope living in this beautifully maintained two-bedroom, one-and-a-half-bath condo, perfectly situated just a short walk or a golf cart ride away from the shops, restaurants, and bayfront parks that make Fairhope so special.Step inside to find a thoughtfully designed floor plan featuring hardwood floors, a spacious living area, and ample storage throughout. The
Seller is willing to entertain owner financing. Welcome to 16324 Tigris Dr, a brand-new, never-lived-in cottage-style home offering the perfect blend of charm, comfort, and modern convenience. Located in the desirable Cottonwood Estates neighborhood of Fairhope, this 4 bedroom, 2 bath, 1504 sq. ft. home showcases the popular Camilia floorplan, designed for effortless living. Step inside to an
Enchanting Walking Trails start right outside your door. Set out on a walk that will swiftly take you to Mobile Bay winding around ancient oaks and manicured grounds bursting with seasonal color. Ride your bike or walk to the Iconic Grand Hotel for supper and catch the sunset and have a cocktail at Bucky's lounge. Lakewood is a stones throw and offers a wonderful variety of food and a great spot
STUNNING WATERFRONT LIVING IN ROCK CREEK! Beautifully designed and perfectly positioned on a serene pond, this exceptional one-level home offers breathtaking water views and incredible indoor-outdoor living. Step outside to an oversized screened patio featuring a stunning Gunite pool with waterfall — the perfect place to relax, entertain, and take in the peaceful surroundings. Inside, the open
Step into effortless living in this fabulous one-level patio home, ideally located on Oak Bend in Rock Creek. Designed with a desirable split-bedroom floor plan, this home offers abundant natural light and exceptional spaces for entertaining, open-concept living areas, crown molding, luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout, and soaring ceilings throughout. The thoughtfully designed layout features
Easy living meets thoughtful design in this custom-built, one level, patio home, perfectly located near shopping, the medical complex, and charming downtown Fairhope. The classic brick exterior opens to an airy interior with tall ceilings throughout and an open floor plan that feels spacious and welcoming. Designed with comfort in mind, the home is handicap accessible and features a primary suite
Don’t miss this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2-bath home located in the popular Southland Place neighborhood. Conveniently situated close to downtown Fairhope, close to several area parks, and within walking distance to Fairhope Middle School and Fairhope High School, this property offers both comfort and convenience. Inside, you’ll find a dedicated dining area and living room, along with a
This beautiful 5-bedroom, 3-bath home is situated on a desirable corner lot with a side-entry garage. A wide foyer welcomes you into a spacious family room, perfect for relaxing or entertaining. The home features granite countertops, designer-painted cabinets, stainless steel appliances, hardwood floors in the foyer and great room, upgraded light fixtures, plush carpet in the bedrooms, and
Welcome home to this lovingly maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence located on a quiet cul-de-sac in charming Fairhope. This home features an inviting open layout with high ceilings, creating a bright and airy feel throughout. The kitchen, dining area, and family room flow seamlessly together, making it perfect for both everyday living and entertaining. Along the back of the home, a spacious
Picture Perfect! This gold fortified, custom home captures the very best of Fairhope living just steps from Mobile Bay and a short golf cart ride to Downtown. Designed by Bob Chatham, built by Duggar Homes, and finished by Brooke Chamblee Interiors, this 4BR/4.5BA coastal cottage blends timeless architecture with refined style. Inside, thoughtful craftsmanship shines through every detail —
Tucked away in the heart of downtown Fairhope, this well-maintained home offers privacy, space, and flexibility rarely found this close to town. Set on a generous lot with mature trees, the home provides a quiet retreat while still being minutes from the bay, parks, dining, and shopping. Inside, the layout is comfortable and functional with open living spaces, natural light, and a flow that works
Discover paradise at this beautifully updated home on Mobile Bay, complete with a guest cottage and pool, all set on 100 feet of prime bayfront. Enjoy the eastern shore's fabulous sunsets and the tranquil bay breezes from the new pier, poolside lounging, or the bay-view deck. This 3-bedroom, 3-bath residence boasts a host of modern features including hardwood and tile flooring, granite
**LOCATION...LOCATION...LOCATION...Walking distance to downtown Fairhope and the Mobile Bay where the sunsets can't be beat! This 3 bedroom 1 bath features original hardwood floors, oak cabinets, large screened porch and fenced in yard**SELLER CONTRIBUTING $10,000.00 with acceptable offer to use as you like, buy rate down, flooring, or use for down payment. Buyer to verify all information during
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
Must see 1/1 home located minutes from the Grand Hotel in Point Clear! This home is located just across the street from a park providing easy access and beautiful views of Mobile Bay. Home features an open concept with the living and kitchen area. The kitchen has a center island that opens up to the living area that features vaulted ceilings. The kitchen also opens up to a separate dining area.
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,
AVAILABLE MID MAY! 4 bedrooms and 2 bath open floor plan, with luxury vinyl plank flooring throughout. The kitchen has stainless steel appliances, plenty of cabinet storage and granite countertops. The master bathroom includes a separate shower, large soaking tub, walk in closet and private water closet. Enjoy access to amenities such as: a community pool, fishing pond, walking trails, kayak
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
This charming 3BD/2BA rental is located in Fairhope, Alabama, just minutes from State Highway 181 and U.S. Highway 98. For commuters, this home is a dream, strategically placed between Mobile and Pensacola. The location is not the only thing great about this home, the split bedroom floor plan is an ideal layout for both families and roommates. New flooring in the kitchen and new granite
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,
This cottage's interior details with open-beamed high ceiling in the living and dining room, brick fireplace, formal study with glass French doors and large screen back porch. Kitchen offers spacious counters and storage. Split bedroom plan has bedrooms on opposite sides of common areas.
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
Located in Meadowbrook just west of County Road 13, in Fairhope. This 3 Bedroom 2 Bath home with open floor plan. New exterior & windows, vaulted ceiling in LR/DR, kitchen with breakfast bar, utility room with W/D connections, and nice private backyard with storage building. Convenient to grocery, school, and medical amenities. *Dogs under 30 lbs allowed upon approval. No Smoking.
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