Living & Working in Decatur
Rent vs. Buy Analysis
Median home price is $230,000 . Buying analysis suggests favorable conditions for long-term residents due to stable home prices.
Neighborhoods by Value & Commute
Southwest Decatur
SUBURBANDowntown Decatur
URBANQuick Decision Guide
Major HVAC Employers
Top-Rated School Districts in Decatur, AL
- here City Schools: Includes schools like the area High School and Austin High School, ranked among the top in the area. The district has 23 National Board-certified teachers, placing it in the top 10 school systems in Alabama. Source
- Hartselle City Schools: Nearby Hartselle High School is also highly rated, known for strong academic performance. Source
Childcare Costs in Decatur, AL
- Daycare: Monthly costs range from $500 to $1,200, depending on the facility and age of the child. Part-time options may reduce expenses. Source
- Nanny: Full-time nanny services average $2,000 to $2,400 per month. Source
Recommended Pediatricians or Family Clinics
- Decatur Morgan Pediatrics: Located at 1215 7th Street SE, Suite
Work-Life Balance Culture
Decatur, AL, offers a balanced work-life culture with a mix of corporate and industrial employment opportunities alongside a community-focused lifestyle. Major employers include 3M, United Launch Alliance, and Daikin. The city promotes a slower pace compared to larger metropolitan areas, with many residents valuing family time and outdoor activities.
Fitness Facilities
- Gyms: Anytime Fitness (membership: ~$30/month), Decatur Family YMCA (membership: ~$50/month), and CrossFit here (drop-in: ~$20/session).
- Parks & Trails: Point Mallard Park features walking trails and a golf course (entry: ~$5). The Wheeler National Wildlife Refuge offers free hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities.
Dining Costs
- Lunch: Average cost at Big Bob Gibson's Bar-B-Q is ~$10–$15. The RailYard offers casual dining for ~$12–$18.
- Dinner: Upscale options like Simp McGhee's range ~$20–$30 per entrée. The Brick Deli & Tavern serves meals for ~$15–$25.
- Drinks: Local breweries like Cross-Eyed Owl Brewing charge ~$5–$7 per craft beer. Cocktails at **The
Financial Facts for Decatur, AL
#### State Income Tax Rate
Alabama has a progressive state income tax rate ranging from 2% to 5%, depending on income brackets. For specific municipal rates in Decatur, refer to the Alabama Department of Revenue.
#### Property Tax Average
Property taxes in Decatur are calculated using a millage rate of 45.3 mills for District 6, as per the Morgan County Revenue Commissioner. The average effective property tax rate in Alabama is approximately 0.41%, one of the lowest in the U.S.
#### Cost of Living Compared to Huntsville
Decatur's cost of living is approximately 10-15% lower than Huntsville, according to local comparisons. Housing costs are notably more affordable, with median home prices around $180,000 compared to Huntsville's $250,000.
#### Growing Industries Creating Jobs
Key industries driving job growth in Decatur include advanced manufacturing, aerospace, and electric vehicle (EV) technology. A $30 million EV training center is under development, as reported by Made in Alabama.
#### Business Startup Climate
Decatur offers a favorable environment for