A small, secluded city known as "Alabama's Mountain Town"
Fort Payne is known as "Alabama’s Mountain Town." In a narrow valley between two of the region’s tallest peaks, the city of about 15,000 is surrounded by national and state parks with miles of waterfall hiking trails. “We’re actually the second most popular tourist destination in Alabama, only behind the Gulf Shores,” says Tracy Jones, a Fort Payne native and Realtor with Southern Properties Agency. “I have three Airbnb’s, and people stay in them all the time. They all come for the hiking and fishing we have here.” Along with the city’s eco-tourism industry, manufacturing plays a major role in the local economy. Ferguson Enterprises built a large distribution center right at the highway intersection, which links Fort Payne to larger cities like Huntsville and Chattanooga, and The Children's Place employs about 1,200 people.
Ft Payne Alabama is famous for being the home of Country Music's "Alabama", who was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2006.
There is abundant natural beauty surrounding the city of Ft Payne Alabama.
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Ranch-style homes on multi-acre lots with mountain views
The housing market in Fort Payne is “getting back to normal,” Jones says. “It’s still a seller’s market right now, but things have really started to slow down for the first time since the pandemic.” The median sale price here was about $240,000 in 2025, which is about 15 percent below Alabama’s median price. Modest, midcentury ranch-style houses make up most of the housing inventory in Fort Payne. On the east and west edges of town, many homes sit on multi-acre lots with mountain views. The central valley “has a little bit of everything,” Jones says. There are historic houses from the late 1800s, wooden cabins surrounded by trees and even more secluded homes on brow lots.
Mid century ranch style homes are one of the most common styles available in Ft Payne Alabama.
Most of the homes in Ft Payne Alabama are older and historic.
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Hiking, swimming and boulder climbing at Little River Canyon National Preserve
One of the city’s most unique attractions is Little River Canyon National Preserve, which offers hiking, swimming and boulder climbing. More waterfall hiking trails weave through DeSoto State Park, at the top of Lookout Mountain. Some of the best fishing in North Alabama is just 25 miles south along the Coosa River. The state’s largest lake, Lake Guntersville, has a public boat launch and mountain biking trails only 40 miles west. City Park hosts all the annual events back in the downtown district. In September, Fort Payne Boom Days Heritage Celebration brings the community together to celebrate their hometown’s history. The Fort Payne Hosiery and Depot museums offer free tours highlighting the town’s former leading industries. And live music plays throughout the festival, paying tribute to the city’s most famous residents, the members of the band Alabama.
The falls at the Little River Canyon National Preserve in Ft Payne Alabama are a popular place for swimming in the summertime and kayaking.
There are is a scenic drive around the top of the canyon at The Little River Canyon National Preserve in Ft Payne Alabama.
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U.S. Highway 11 becomes the city's downtown commercial corridor
U.S. Highway 11 becomes a Main Street-style commercial corridor as it passes through Fort Payne. Sidewalks outline the historic storefronts, making it easy to walk from shop to shop. Along with local boutiques, this area has coffee shops, art galleries and a large antique mall. “A lot of the bars and restaurants downtown have live music on the weekends,” Jones says. “We have some fast-food spots, but there really aren’t any big chains around here. It’s all locally owned.” Lowes and Walmart are the only big box stores in town. And in 2024, Fort Payne welcomed its first large-scale grocery chain, Food City.
U.S. Highway 11 runs through downtown Ft Payne Alabama and is the major commercial road through the city.
There are several locally owned stores and restaurants, such as The Spot, along U.S. Highway 11 in Ft Payne Alabama.
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Fort Payne City Schools earn an A-minus on Niche
Fort Payne City Schools earn an overall A-minus on Niche. The district has one high school, one middle school and a pipeline of elementary schools, serving approximately 3,300 students total. Fort Payne High hosts community-wide pep rallies during football season each fall and has a B-plus on Niche. It also has a robust career and technical education curriculum, with programs ranging from law enforcement to architecture and construction.
Full campus of Little Ridge Intermediate School in Ft Payne Alabama.
Ft Payne High School is a public secondary school in Ft Payne Alabama,
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I-59 is the main route in Fort Payne
Interstate 59 is the main route running through Fort Payne. It links to Chattanooga about 50 miles north, and Birmingham is just 95 miles south. Alabama State Road 35 crosses I-59 and connects to Huntsville in about 70 miles. DeKalb Regional Medical Center is in Fort Payne.
I-59 runs through Ft Payne Alabama and connects it with Chattanooga and Gadsden.
There are three Ft Payne exits off of I-59, and many businesses nearby.
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Weather and crime in Fort Payne
Summers in Fort Payne are hot and muggy, while winters are short and mild. Recent crime data for the area is not available.
Written By
Ryan Horton
Photography Contributed By
Tommy Daspit
Video By
Sara Warthen
Interested in learning more about homes in this area?
Reach out to
Melissa Freeman,
an experienced agent in this area.
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On average, homes in Fort Payne, AL sell after 88 days on the market compared to the national average of 54 days. The median sale price for homes in Fort Payne, AL over the last 12 months is $224,650, down 1% from the median home sale price over the previous 12 months.
Welcome home to this move-in ready retreat tucked into a quiet Fort Payne neighborhood near local schools. From the moment you step inside, you’ll feel the care poured into every update. New LVP flooring flows through the living areas, while plush carpet creates cozy bedrooms. The remodeled primary bath, updated lighting, trim, and new appliances add fresh style and everyday comfort. Added square
2 Houses-1 Property! Unique opportunity to own 8.5 acres, a 2600sqft 3bd/2ba log home, barn with stalls, 1600 sqft 2bd/2ba apartment above a detached garage at back of property. Back deck of main house overlooks the property, the large pond, and the above-ground pool! Main home offers vaulted ceiling with living room open to kitchen! Kitchen boasts pantry, island, and eat-in kitchen. 24x24
Welcome to 7354 County Road 44, where peaceful country living meets convenience. This 3BR/2BA all-brick home sits on 4.7 level, mostly cleared, and unrestricted acres, perfect for a mini-homestead. Inside, you'll find a main-level master en-suite, vaulted ceilings, custom cabinetry, granite counter tops, a walk-in pantry, and barn doors adding farmhouse charm. Step outside to a 29' x 14'
Mark Morris
Greater Chattanooga Realty, Keller Williams Realty
Tucked away at the end of a quiet dead-end road, this 14-acre Fort Payne property offers rare privacy with the convenience of city living. The main home features 2 bedrooms, 1 bath, and 988 sq. ft. of comfortable space. A separate studio-style guest house with kitchenette and bathroom is ideal for guests, rental income, or a home office. Two storage buildings add extra functionality. Full RV
This charming 1,048- sq ft +/- home offers a smart and efficient layout with 3 bedrooms and 2 full baths. The heart of the home is its classic galley kitchen, designed for easy meal prep with streamlined counter space, functional storage, and a natural flow that makes cooking effortless. An open and cozy living area provides the perfect gathering space, while the bedrooms are thoughtfully placed
Charming 4BR/3BA Brick Home in North Fort Payne! Step into timeless comfort in this spacious 4-bedroom, 3-bath brick home nestled on two beautifully landscaped lots in North Fort Payne. With new LVP flooring throughout, this home blends modern updates with classic character. Features Include: Sun-filled sunroom perfect for relaxing or entertaining, Two-car garage plus an unfinished basement—ideal
Fully renovated, like new construction! perfect started home with 3 bedroom, 1 bathroom, enjoy your morning coffee from the cover and enclosed front sun room, large kitchen, level and spacious yard, perfect for entretaiment. Room for storage in the basement/crawl space. This home is located on a corner lot in the heart of Fort Payne, with easy access to all the city amenities. This property can
Charming 3BR/2BA home offering approximately 1,200 sq ft on a desirable corner lot with beautiful views of Lookout Mountain from the front porch. This well-laid-out home features an open living area, comfortable bedrooms, and functional kitchen space ideal for everyday living. Enjoy peaceful mornings and relaxing evenings taking in the scenic mountain views. Convenient location with easy access
Your Private Country Retreat Awaits! Discover the peaceful, self-sustaining lifestyle you've been dreaming of! Unique & charming dwelling nestled on 5 beautiful acres, offering a tranquil escape in a serene country setting. Enjoy your morning coffee overlooking a pond, or cultivate your green thumb in the dedicated greenhouse. This unique property combines rustic charm with practical amenities
Great opportunity to add to your rental portfolio, this property offers two apartments, Apartment "A" with 2 bedrooms and 1 bath, Apartment "B" with 1 bedroom and 1 bath.
Cabin on Lookout Mountain close to Mentone, this unique home offers exceptional flexibility and charm. The 3BR/3BA property features two distinct living spaces that may be used together or separately, connected by a shared entrance hall. The layout includes two kitchens and living areas, dining space, shared laundry access, and generous storage throughout. The front 2BR/2BA cabin features pine
PRICE IMPROVEMENT and $3000.00 for improvements. Welcome to your new retreat in a peaceful and quiet neighborhood! This 4-bedroom, 3-bath home offers comfort, convenience, and thoughtful updates throughout. Inside, you’ll find fresh new lighting that brightens every room and creates a modern feel. The floorplan includes a private in-law suite, perfect for extended family or guests. Safety and
Welcome to Briarwood Apartments, where modern living meets serene surroundings!Our newly renovated 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom apartments offer the perfect blend of style and comfort, featuring granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, stylish LVP flooring, and updated finishes throughout.Nestled in a beautifully maintained wooded setting, Briarwood Apartments provides a peaceful
Now available at Sequoyah in Fort Payne, AL: Lot 56, a move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bath home for rent in the Fort Payne City School District. With two full bathrooms and a comfortable layout, this home is built for real-life routines-easy mornings, smoother evenings, and space that simply works. Appliances included: refrigerator + stove. Utilities: electric. Monthly rent: $899 Move-in fee: $895
Now available at Sequoyah in Fort Payne, AL: Lot 156, a move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath home for rent in the Fort Payne City School District. With three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this home offers the space to live comfortably-room for a home office, guests, or simply a little more breathing room. Appliances included: refrigerator + stove Utilities: electric Monthly rent: $999 Move-in fee:
Now available at Sequoyah in Fort Payne, AL: Lot 188, a move-in ready 2-bedroom, 1-bath home for rent in the Fort Payne City School District. This home offers a comfortable, practical layout that makes everyday living easy-ideal for a fresh start, downsizing, or simply finding a place that fits your routine. Appliances included: stove + refrigerator Utilities: electric Monthly rent: $899 Move-in
Now available at Sequoyah in Fort Payne, AL: Lot 82, a move-in ready 3-bedroom, 2-bath home for rent in the Fort Payne City School District. With three bedrooms and two full bathrooms, this home gives you the space to live comfortably-whether you're setting up a home office, creating a guest room, or simply enjoying extra breathing room. Appliances included: refrigerator + stove Utilities:
Now available at Sequoyah in Fort Payne, AL: Lot 86, a move-in ready 2-bedroom, 1-bath home for rent in the Fort Payne City School District. This home offers a comfortable, practical layout that makes everyday living easy-ideal for a fresh start, downsizing, or simply finding a place that fits your routine. Appliances included: refrigerator + stove Utilities: electric Monthly rent: $899 Move-in
Now available at Sequoyah in Fort Payne, AL: Lot 163, a move-in ready 2-bedroom, 2-bath home for rent in the Fort Payne City School District. With two full bathrooms, this home delivers extra comfort and flexibility-ideal for guests, roommates, or simply making everyday routines easier. Appliances included: refrigerator + stove Utilities: electric Monthly rent: $899 Move-in fee: $895 Special
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