What to know when moving to Dothan, AL
Dothan at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community where 41.7% of residents are renters and the median household income is $49,124.
- The Major Draw:
- Median gross rent is $886, which is relatively affordable in the region.
- The Reality Check:
- The poverty rate stands at 21.8%, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.3% of residents use public transit for their commute.
- Top Tip:
- Prepare for about 39.4 inches of rain a year, with 103 rainy days.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Dothan has a population of 38,627, and 17.8% of residents hold a bachelor's degree or higher, reflecting a moderate education level. The median owner-occupied home value is $156,100, making the housing market accessible for many, while the renter percentage suggests a relatively balanced community. With 0.3% of commuters relying on public transit, most residents likely depend on cars for transportation.
Probably not your spot if: high poverty rates and limited public transit options are deal-breakers for you.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $886, making it a more budget-friendly option compared to many other areas.
- The median owner-occupied home value is $156,100, offering affordable home purchase opportunities.
- Education level is moderate, with 17.8% of residents holding a bachelor's degree or higher.
- The community has a poverty rate of 21.8%, indicating some economic challenges.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
Crime data for Alabama shows that while the violent crime rate is 350.8 per 100,000, which is slightly above the national average of 325.3, there has been a decline of 12.3% from 2022 to 2025. Property crime is at a rate of 1490.4 per 100,000, which is 3.7% lower than the national average. This indicates some improvements in safety over recent years.
- Violent crime: 350.8 per 100,000 vs national rate of 325.3
- Property crime: 1490.4 per 100,000 vs national rate of 1546.9
- Notable trend: Violent crime down 12.3% since 2022
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Alabama).
Schools & Higher Ed
Dothan has access to a total of 5 postsecondary institutions within Houston County, including:
- Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine
- Fortis College-Dothan
- Jersey College - Dothan
- Troy University-Dothan Campus
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
In Houston County, residents experience an average annual precipitation of 39.4 inches, with about 103 rainy days each year. The area does not see significant snowfall, averaging only 0.1 inches annually. For outdoor activities, check out:
- Xtreme Air Mega Park (4.6 stars, 1,026 reviews)
- Axtion Air Jump & Sports Trampoline Park (4.6 stars, 908 reviews)
- Adventureland Theme Park (4.4 stars, 740 reviews)
- Landmark Park (4.6 stars, 730 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Houston County, the unemployment rate is 2.3% as of December 2025, with a labor force of 48,684. There are 47,548 employed individuals in the area, indicating a stable job market.
- Unemployment rate: 2.3% as of December 2025
- Employed: 47,548
- Labor force: 48,684
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.