Living a Cultural Center Lifestyle in Fairhope, Alabama

The interesting and relatively unusual cultural center of Fairhope, Alabama was founded by 28 settlers from Iowa in November, 1894 as a utopian single tax colony by the "Fairhope Industrial Association." Their purpose in founding a new colony was to establish and conduct a cooperative model community. Fairhope has made some movement from utopian experiment to  artist's/intellectual's colony, boutique resort, and affluent suburb of Mobile. There is always something interesting going on in Fairhope, including Arts and Crafts as well as Music Festivals. Some local residents refer to Fairhope as "Carmel-by-the-Bay" alluding to California’s Carmel-by-the-Sea on the Monterey Peninsula.

Where to Retire in Fairhope and Home Prices

Fairhope is a desirable retirement community with many different kinds of housing available.
The Zillow Home Value Index in Fairhope in early 2022, was $418,562 See some sample Fairhope Listings.

What Is Special about Fairhope

Flowers and plantings; Charming ambience and cooperative heritage; Arts & Crafts Festival (named as Event of the Year by the State of AL);  University of South Alabama branch campus; Mild climate. Named one of the 10 Prettiest Retirement Towns in 2016 by MarketWatch.com. 

What Is Not Special about Fairhope

The town could be too cute for some;  hot, humid summers.

Climate and Physical Environment

Fairhope is on a coastal plain separated by a bay from Mobile. Many homes have a view of the bay. With a horticulturalist on staff, the community and its flowers and Spanish moss could not be more beautiful.

Restaurants & Cultural Scene

Fairhope is blessed with many significant events throughout the year. There is the popular Alabama Coastal BirdFest, the Arts & Crafts Festival, the Fairhope Music Festival, just to name a few. The Eastern Shore Art Center is a vital resource with changing monthly exhibits. The Adult Recreation Center has 1200 members and a daily roster of activities that range from exercise classes to bridge. The center's Big Band dances attract folks from far away.

Crime

According to citydata.com, the crime index in Fairhope is 175.5, which is way below the national average of 319.5, making it one of the safest places to live in after retirement.

Medical Facilities

Thomas Hospital is here in Fair Hope, others are nearby in Mobile. Thomas Hospital is a local source of pride with 56 staff doctors, including specialists in all major disciplines.

Transportation

There are 2 airports in Mobile, Trent Lott International is 44 miles away in Pascagoula. Fairhope is above average for walkability when compared to other towns. For more information about how to retire in Alabama .

Valuable Links

Fairhope on Wikipedia

Fairhope

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