169 movers in Gadsden
What to know when moving to Gadsden, AL
Gadsden at a Glance
- The Vibe:
- A community with a median household income of $47,826 and 34.8% of residents renting.
- The Major Draw:
- Median rent is $747, making it more affordable than many nearby areas.
- The Reality Check:
- The poverty rate is 25.3%, indicating some economic challenges.
- Commute:
- Only 0.0% of residents use public transit, making it a car-dependent area.
- Top Tip:
- Budget for $747/month in rent and prepare for 124 rainy days a year.
The 'Vibe' Check: Who Thrives Here?
Gadsden is home to a population of about 19,186, with a significant portion of residents (34.8%) renting. The community has a relatively low education level, with only 21.8% holding a bachelor's degree or higher. The local economy reflects some strain, as seen by the 25.3% poverty rate, and residents generally depend on cars for transportation, given that public transit usage is virtually nonexistent.
Probably not your spot if you are seeking a bustling urban environment with robust public transit options.
Your Money: Housing & Cost Snapshot
- Median gross rent is $747, while median home values sit at $174,200, making it relatively affordable.
- Approximately 21.8% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, which shapes the educational landscape.
- The poverty rate stands at 25.3%, indicating a significant portion of the population experiences economic hardship.
- With 34.8% of the population renting, the community has a substantial renter presence.
Source: U.S. Census Bureau, ACS 5-Year Data Profiles.
Crime & Safety: What the Numbers Say
In Alabama, crime rates reflect ongoing challenges, particularly with property crime and violent crime rates trending higher than the national average.
- Violent crime: 350.8 per 100,000 residents, which is 7.8% higher than the national average of 325.3.
- Property crime: 1,490.4 per 100,000 residents, slightly lower than the national rate of 1,546.9.
- Notable trend: The homicide rate is 8.6 per 100,000, which is significantly higher than the national average of 4.3.
Source: FBI Crime Data Explorer (state-level summarized data for Alabama).
Schools & Higher Ed
Gadsden has access to local higher education, including:
- 1 postsecondary institution: Gadsden State Community College.
Source: NCES Postsecondary School Locations, U.S. Dept. of Education College Scorecard.
Weather & Getting Outside
Etowah County receives an average annual precipitation of about 52.9 inches, with approximately 124 rainy days. This means you might want to invest in some good rain gear. The area is also home to some lovely outdoor spots.
- Noccalula Falls Park & Campground - 4.7 stars (4,576 reviews)
- Gadsden Kiwanis Park/Ola Lee Mize Patriot Park - 4.7 stars (804 reviews)
- River Rocks Landing - 4.5 stars (710 reviews)
- Coosa Landing Boat Launch - 4.7 stars (447 reviews)
Sources: NOAA Climate Data Online, Google Places.
Jobs & the Local Economy
In Etowah County, the job market has shown some resilience, with a low unemployment rate of 2.4% as of December 2025.
- Unemployment rate: 2.4% in December 2025.
- Employed: 41,711 individuals.
- Labor force: 42,728 individuals.
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Local Area Unemployment Statistics.
