[FedUpInFtMyers]

What can anyone tell me about Section, AL? My parents retired there about 10 years ago from the Midwest and seem unhappy. They are aging and ill and I often consider moving to AL to be closer to help them. I really miss St. Petersburg but feel an obligation to my folks, therefore, in addition to your experiences and opinions concerning life in Section, which city would you recommend to a newcomer? I am wondering about Huntsville vs. Birmingham. Any advice? Please tell all the good, bad, and the ugly. I very much appreciate it. Thanks!

[bbailey]

Originally Posted by rosev

Thank you, I think that we might rethink the Pell City area. Have talked to another couple here in Michigan that is also checking out the Pell City area. Do you have an thoughts on areas in Pell City to stay away from? I know there are bad areas in every city--that's life!

I am 38 and with the exception of 5 years, have lived in Pell City all of my life. There is NOWHERE in Pell City I would not go, period. This includes public housing areas, trailer parks, "non-Caucasian" housing communities, the business areas - you get the idea. So, should you move here, that would have to be at your own discretion I suppose.

I have no idea where you are obtaining crime stats, but I will assure you that this is not a town that will be smothered by growth without safe low-crime growth to match it. Let's put it this way - a couple of years ago, my A/C went out and both day and night, I left my windows in my home open for some 3-4 months. Even with working during the day, nothing happened.\

Please reconsider Pell City - we would love to have you!!!

[Keeper]

There are all different prices on housing depending more on location. Huntsville area housing is more expensive than some of the smaller towns mainly because that is where the majority of people live and work. If you chose a smaller town you will find that housing is much more affordable, however jobs are harder to find and the pay is less.

Give us an idea of what price range you are looking at and then we may be able to give you a better idea of the best place for you.

You want to consider school districts too. Some are really good others have problems.

[Coldgin]

Whatever you do don't move to Decatur. My husband and I do just that, we own an automotive repair business and we've somehow managed to stay in business since 1998. Every business owner here that I talk to says that they feel that Decatur city is against the small business owner. I believe it. We try to do everything by the books, pay our taxes, keep our licenses current, pay 9% sales tax and also a business personal property tax, etc., and we constantly feel they are doing US a favor by "letting" us be here. We're the ones bringing revenue to this city and they've bitten the hand once too many times. We're moving north - southern hospitality....yea right!

[rosev]

Don't try to make it with an automative job in Michigan either. We live in Ypsilanti, which is about 15 minutes from Ann Arbor and 45 minutes from Detroit, and my husband works for somebody, but it has been really slow! Everybody around here is loosing their job. A lot of auto factories around here are either gone or on the chopping block! We have been trying to sell our house for over a year now. Thanks for the advice on Decatur. I think we are going to look around Killen---if our house ever sells!

[dbkeel1]

Try Huntsville. It's the fastest growing part of the state and two hospitals. Some home shopping via internet could give you ideas if it's a fit. I've helped several retirees in the last two years, though. Something's bringing them here.

[Shelley Ann]

I live in Fowl River area and it is beautiful . I have kids 9,10,13, and the schools they are at are very good. Fowl River is great for kids in the summer or anytime. Water sports and beaches 10 minutes away. The community is growing but everybody is freindly . We only have one garage here and could really use another one. If you are interested and want more details let me know and i would be more than happy to help. Shelley Ann

[Figment 07]

According to Rose's original post, a place like Huntsville might be too big and busy:

Originally Posted by rosev

We need help looking for an area to move to in Alabama. My husband is a auto mechanic and would like to open up his own shop later. We have 2 children (7 & 11), so of course, we want good schools. We want a small town, where we don't have to worry about the kids playing outside.

[meredith06]

what price range are you looking for? are you looking to rent or buy?

[dlt55]

Look into Athens in the noth area. Only about 10 miles from Huntsville and Madison and really growing especially from 1-65/Hwy 72 interchange and east toward Madison. Cost of living isn't bad and home values are better than most. There is a website called athensplus.com that focuses on the area and there is a classified section of homes and property for sale by owners and realtors. And your husband should be able to find a job pretty easy. Hope you find exactly what you are looking for!