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
Natasha Winter,
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 Fairhope, AL sell after 70 days on the market compared to the national average of 56 days. The median sale price for homes in Fairhope, AL over the last 12 months is $475,000, down 2% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
SELLER OFFERING $10,000 in Concessions-with acceptable offer!!! Custom-built 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath modern country farmhouse nestled under mature oak trees in the heart of Fairhope. Situated on a cul-de-sac, this property is about a mile from downtown Fairhope and the Mobile Bay, offering convenient access to local shops, restaurants, parks, the pier, parades and other community events. This
Open House Sunday 2-4pm!!! Luxury living just became an even better value- major price reduction with peace of mind with a newly Fortified roof and fresh exterior paint! This golf cart friendly neighborhood is located just minutes from downtown shopping, dining, hospital, multiple grocery stores and the breathtaking sunsets of Mobile Bay. The main level includes 3 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms with a
104 Pebble Court is a beautiful five bedroom, three and a half bath home located on a quiet cul de sac street in the sought-after neighborhood of ROCK CREEK in Fairhope, Alabama. This spacious 3,185 square foot home offers privacy and convenience on a level lot and a peaceful backyard setting. A formal dining room and a formal living room with double French doors greet you at the front door and
Welcome home to this well-maintained 3-bedroom, 2.5-bath residence on a quiet cul-de-sac in Fairhope. The open layout with high ceilings creates a bright, airy feel, with the kitchen, dining, and family room flowing seamlessly for easy living and entertaining. A sun porch wrapped in windows spans the back of the home, filling the space with natural light.The kitchen features premium Viking
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
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
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
Talk about living the dream with a beautifully crafted custom home in The Colony at the Grand, where the feature that truly sets this property apart is the expansive grove of majestic oaks behind it, offering a rare sense of beauty, privacy, and natural serenity that can be fully enjoyed without the maintenance, as it is managed by the HOA. Tucked beneath a breathtaking canopy of oaks, some
Tucked just minutes from the heart of downtown Fairhope, this thoughtfully upgraded home offers the perfect blend of charm, efficiency, and everyday comfort. From the moment you arrive, you’ll notice the difference—this home isn’t just beautiful, it’s built to perform. Featuring Gold Fortified construction, a whole-house Generac generator, and a high-efficiency Bosch HVAC system with air
SELLER OFFERING $10,000 in Concessions-with acceptable offer!!! Custom-built 5-bedroom, 3.5-bath modern country farmhouse nestled under mature oak trees in the heart of Fairhope. Situated on a cul-de-sac, this property is about a mile from downtown Fairhope and the Mobile Bay, offering convenient access to local shops, restaurants, parks, the pier, parades and other community events. This
Welcome to a home that captures the heart of Fairhope living, where timeless charm and modern comfort come together on a beautifully spacious half acre lot. Tucked within a quiet neighborhood, this property offers the perfect balance of privacy, space, and convenience. Step inside to an inviting layout filled with natural light, flowing seamlessly from the formal dining room into a warm and
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
Come see this beautifully custom-built home by Eric Craig—you won’t want to miss it! From the moment you walk in, you’ll notice the bright, open layout filled with natural light and the clean, modern look of no carpet throughout. The spacious kitchen with granite countertops flows effortlessly into the living area, creating the perfect space for both everyday living and entertaining. The custom
Completely renovated beginning in 2023 with continued improvements through 2025, this exceptional Fairhope home offers an blend of location, quality, and flexibility, just minutes from Downtown Fairhope, Mobile Bay, and the Grand Hotel. The home has been thoughtfully updated with electrical improvements completed in 2023, HVAC systems serving the primary residence installed in 2018, and a 2023
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
FULLY FURNISHED- LONG TERM LEASE AVAILABLE NOW! 3 Bedroom / 3 Bath Fully- Furnished Brick home - Available now! 3 bedroom / 3 bath fully- -furnished brick home in Fairhope. Spacious 10-foot ceiling downstairs, plantation shutters, heavy moldings, and lovely scored concrete floors. The living room features a gas fireplace with built-in bookcases and a dining area. Primary bedroom on the main floor
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,
Welcome to your new home in Fairhope, AL! This charming ground unit offers one bedroom and one bathroom, with a spacious 625 SQ FT layout. Enjoy the convenience of granite countertops, a balcony overlooking Fairhope Ave., and a shared outdoor patio. Unit includes a washer/dryer combo for added convenience. No pets, no smoking. Tenant pays utilities. Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity -
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
Welcome to this beautifully maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home located on a quiet street in the highly desirable Fairhope Falls community—just minutes from downtown Fairhope. This home offers a functional open-concept layout with a spacious living area that flows into the dining space and kitchen, making everyday living easy and comfortable. The kitchen features granite countertops, a tile
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,
252 S. Bayview Street is a well-maintained long-term rental home in the heart of Fairhope's highly desireable Fruit and Nut neighborhood. This single story mid-century modern home, nestled on a large corner lot is a renter's dream come true. Located a few blocks from downtown Fairhope's coveted cultural and culinary delights, 1 block away from the shores of Mobile Bay, and zoned for the acclaimed
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
Newer construction Rhett floorplan home within the Overland subdivision in Fairhope. 4 bedroom, 2 bath home with approximately 1835 sqft. Home features tray ceilings and ceiling fans in the living room and primary bedroom. Granite countertops in the kitchen and baths and luxury vinyl planking throughout. NO CARPET. Home provides stainless steel appliances including a refrigerator, microwave,
Affordable 2-bedroom, 1-bath rental now available in Fairhope! This duplex offers laminate flooring throughout and a fantastic location close to shopping, dining, and everyday conveniences. As you enter, you’re welcomed into a comfortable living space that flows seamlessly into the eat-in kitchen with dedicated dining area. The kitchen provides ample cabinet and counter space and leads directly
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