Mobile
About Mobile, Alabama
Welcome to Mobile, Alabama, a city rich in history with a vibrant cultural scene, located at the junction of the Mobile River and Mobile Bay. Known for being the home of the original Mardi Gras celebration in the United States, Mobile combines Southern traditions with coastal living. The city's economy is bolstered by its major port, one of the largest in the U.S., and industries such as shipbuilding, aerospace, and manufacturing. Residents enjoy a variety of lifestyles, from bustling downtown areas to tranquil, tree-lined neighborhoods. Mobile's numerous parks, museums, and the annual Mardi Gras festival highlight its dynamic and festive spirit.
Average Home Prices in Mobile
The average home price in Mobile, AL, stands at approximately $188,344, indicating a market accessible to a range of buyers. Mobile offers a variety of housing options, from historic antebellum homes to modern condominiums in the city center. The city's diverse economy and cultural richness make it an attractive place for new residents and investors, looking for a mix of historical charm and modern convenience.
Based on calculations of home data from MLS and/or public records.
Veteran Benefits in Alabama
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Alabama State Veterans Homes
Alabama manages four state veterans homes: Bill Nichols in Alexander City, Floyd E. "Tut" Fann in Huntsville, William F. Green in Bay Minette, and Col. Robert L Howard in Pell City. The upcoming Command Sgt. Maj. Bennie G. Adkins home in Enterprise is expected by 2024. Admission requires an honorable discharge and wartime service, with a monthly fee.
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Alabama Tax Benefits For Veterans
Veterans benefit from property tax exemptions on specially adapted housing and vehicles provided by the VA. All military retirement pay and active combat pay are exempt from Alabama state tax.
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Alabama Veteran Employment Benefits
Veterans receive a preference in state employment, adding points to examination scores. This preference extends to spouses and surviving spouses under certain conditions.
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Alabama Veteran Education Benefits
Includes tuition waivers for Purple Heart recipients and the Alabama GI Dependent Scholarship Program offering tuition assistance for children and spouses of disabled or deceased veterans.
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Alabama National Guard Education Assistance
ANGEAP provides up to $5,080 per semester for National Guard members, covering tuition after federal benefits are applied.
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Alabama Veteran Recreation Benefits
Veterans enjoy free access to state parks, discounted hunting and fishing licenses, and special rates for other recreational licenses.
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Alabama State Veterans Cemetery
Located in Spanish Fort, the cemetery offers interment for veterans and eligible family members without charge for veterans, with a fee for dependents.
Mobile Neighborhoods and Surrounding Areas
Mobile's neighborhoods offer a tapestry of cultural, historic, and lifestyle choices. Here's a closer look at 20 vibrant communities:
- Downtown Mobile: At the heart of the city, Downtown Mobile is a bustling hub of commerce and culture, featuring historic architecture, galleries, shops, and restaurants. It's the epicenter of Mobile's famous Mardi Gras celebrations.
- Midtown Mobile: Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, Midtown offers a blend of residential comfort and urban convenience, making it popular among families and young professionals alike.
- Spring Hill: An affluent suburb of Mobile, Spring Hill is home to one of the area's most sought-after school districts, lush green spaces, and several higher education institutions, including Spring Hill College.
- West Mobile: Rapidly growing, West Mobile features newer residential developments and a wide variety of retail and dining options. It appeals to those seeking a suburban lifestyle with all the amenities of city life.
- Dauphin Island Parkway: Stretching towards Dauphin Island, this area is known for its waterfront properties and maritime activities. It offers a mix of residential styles and easy access to beaches and boating activities.
- Old Dauphin Way: Characterized by its historic homes and oak-covered streets, Old Dauphin Way boasts a diverse architectural landscape and a strong sense of community.
- Toulminville: A neighborhood with deep historical roots, Toulminville offers affordable housing and a close-knit community, along with local parks and schools.
- Cottage Hill: Known for its spacious homes and large lots, Cottage Hill is one of Mobile’s more upscale neighborhoods, offering a quiet, suburban feel with convenient access to the city’s amenities.
- Plateau: Often referred to as Africatown, Plateau is a historic neighborhood with a rich cultural heritage, originally founded by the last known group of Africans brought to the U.S. as slaves.
- Prichard: Located just north of Mobile, Prichard is an independent city with its own municipal services, featuring a mix of residential and industrial areas.
- Spanish Fort: Across the bay from Mobile, Spanish Fort is a historically significant site with modern appeal, known for its retail centers and suburban comfort.
- Saraland: Part of the Mobile metropolitan area, Saraland is favored for its newer schools and rapid residential growth, attracting families looking for a supportive community environment.
- Chickasaw: A small city within the Mobile County, Chickasaw offers affordable housing options, community parks, and local schools, suitable for those starting out or downsizing.
- Bayou La Batre: Known as the "Seafood Capital of Alabama," Bayou La Batre is a coastal town with a strong fishing and shipbuilding economy, offering a unique lifestyle centered around the Gulf of Mexico.
- Creola: Just to the north of Mobile, Creola is known for its rural charm and expansive properties, offering a peaceful living environment close to urban amenities.
- Theodore: Featuring residential communities and industrial businesses, Theodore is well-known for the Bellingrath Gardens and Home, attracting both residents and tourists.
- Tillmans Corner: A bustling community with a variety of shopping and dining options, Tillmans Corner serves as a commercial hub for southern Mobile County.
- Eight Mile: Named after its distance from downtown Mobile, Eight Mile features a blend of residential and commercial properties, with community activities and green spaces.
- Orange Grove: Located just outside of Mobile, Orange Grove offers an escape from the city with more spacious land and quieter neighborhoods.
- Forest Hill: Known for its larger homes and wooded areas, Forest Hill provides a serene residential setting that's still convenient to Mobile’s downtown and business districts.
Military Presence in Mobile
Mobile and the surrounding area support a considerable military presence, which plays an essential role in the local economy and community. Notable installations include:
- Coast Guard Sector Mobile: Overseeing operations throughout the Gulf of Mexico, Coast Guard Sector Mobile is crucial for maritime safety and security in the region.
Local Universities in Mobile
Mobile is home to several notable higher education institutions that contribute to the city's educational and cultural landscape. Here’s a look at some of the local universities:
- University of South Alabama (USA): As a major center for research, USA offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, known particularly for its medical school and health sciences complex.
- Spring Hill College: The oldest college in Alabama, Spring Hill College is a Jesuit institution that prides itself on rigorous academics and a commitment to service learning.
- Bishop State Community College: A community college with strong ties to the local area, offering a variety of two-year degrees and training certifications, particularly in technical and vocational fields.
VA Home Loans and MHS Lending in Mobile
In Mobile, the VA Home Loan program offers excellent opportunities for veterans and active military personnel seeking homeownership. Here are some of the key benefits:
- No Down Payment Required: VA Loans in Mobile allow eligible veterans to purchase a home without a down payment, making homeownership more accessible.
- Competitive Interest Rates: These loans often have lower interest rates than many conventional loans, which can significantly reduce monthly payments and total loan cost.
- No Private Mortgage Insurance (PMI): VA Loans do not require PMI, which can save homeowners hundreds of dollars each month.
MHS Lending, with expertise in VA Loans, provides tailored guidance through the home buying process, helping veterans utilize their benefits effectively in Mobile.
