City Profile
Montgomery, Alabama
USA · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Montgomery, Alabama, the state capital, is a city rich in history and Southern charm, situated along the Alabama River. Incorporated in 1819, it played a pivotal role in the American Civil Rights Movement, a legacy deeply embedded in its character and numerous historical sites. The city serves as a hub for government, military, and manufacturing, attracting individuals and families seeking a blend of affordability and a slower pace of life. Its strategic location and ongoing economic development initiatives contribute to its appeal as a place to live and work.
Alabama, located in the southeastern United States, is characterized by its Southern charm, rich history, and diverse natural beauty, ranging from the Appalachian foothills to Gulf Coast beaches. The state's economy has diversified beyond its agricultural roots, with major industries now including automotive manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, banking, and steel production. Living in Alabama generally offers a low cost of living, particularly for housing, which is significantly below the national average. The climate is humid subtropical, featuring hot, humid summers and mild winters with ample sunshine for much of the year, supporting an outdoor-oriented lifestyle.
How this 54/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 53 / 100 | 53.0 | 30% | 15.9 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 89.0 | 57.5 | 25% | 14.4 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $56,811 Income needed to live here: $55,000 Unemployment rate: 3% | 58.3 | 20% | 11.7 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 0.4% | 28.0 | 15% | 4.2 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 75 / 100 | 75.0 | 10% | 7.5 |
| Overall score | 53.6 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Gemini (Tier 2 (reasoned), q=83), last refreshed
3 July 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Performance
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Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Montgomery is notably more affordable than the national average, estimated to be 11% less expensive than the U.S. average in 2024. Housing costs, in particular, are a significant driver of this affordability, being approximately 18% cheaper than the national average. While utilities can be slightly pricier, around 10% higher than the U.S. average, and groceries are about 1% pricier, these are offset by lower costs in other categories. Overall, the city presents an attractive option for those looking to manage their expenses without sacrificing the conveniences of city life.
Income
Salary Insights
Montgomery's economy is anchored by key industries including Health Care and Social Services, Public Administration, Retail, and Manufacturing. In 2024, the city demonstrated strong economic momentum, securing $1.1 billion in capital investment and creating 497 new jobs, ranking #1 in Alabama for capital investment in new projects. Major employers like Hyundai Motor Manufacturing Alabama and the presence of Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base contribute significantly to the region's economic stability and job market. The Montgomery Metro Area has seen an average gain of about 202 new jobs per month over the past five years, indicating a steady, albeit modest, job growth.
The average salary in Montgomery is $35,571 per year. You would need approximately $55,000 to live comfortably.
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Transport
Getting around Montgomery largely requires a car, as indicated by its average Walk Score of 26 and a Transit Score of 22. While public transportation, known as The M Transit, offers fixed-route buses, paratransit services, and on-demand micro-transit, its coverage suggests that most errands necessitate a private vehicle. The average commute time for residents is 20.7 minutes, and car ownership is approximately two cars per household, reinforcing the city's car-dependent nature.
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