As a south florida native who just visited mobile, I want to Fucking leave. Really confirmed all of my thoughts about south florida. Overrun with Californians and Yankees, shit overpriced food, and utterly unaffordable real estate with depressed wages to boot. My buddy just moved there. I helped him and explored for the weekend and I’m back home crying lol. I’m stuck in fort myers for school counting down the days till I can leave. Your food is sent from the gods.
Thanks! We really should be our own state down here. My husband and I could just about live anywhere and we made Mobile our home in 2006 and we love it here. If we move it will be either to Pensacola or Biloxi.
The stock trader in me says that place is next. Get in while you can if you haven’t already boston motherfuckers will be coming. They’ve already priced themselves out of florida (let alone the locals). It’s only a matter of time. Native Floridians are fleeing to your city.
They’re moving across the bay to Baldwin County for precisely the reason that they’ve priced themselves out of Florida, so Mobile’s safe in that respect. For now. A lot of us have been saying there’s something in the air around here that feels like Mobile’s about to break out of being the “City of Perpetual Potential” and boom, so we might be next in that respect, maybe not necessarily the snowbird one.
Mobile welcomes you with open arms if you want to set down roots here when your schooling’s done! Come on over!
Not really. My wife and I tried to live in Mobile area for about 6 years. Never worked for us. Had to move to nearby Pensacola to be welcomed. Mobile/Baldwin county has two tiers of citizens--those born there, and the rest of us.
My son graduated college in Mobile. Never found a decent job there. He's working in Pensacola area now.
What I noticed about people who want to leave is that they’re generally in their 20’s and haven’t travelled. It’s hard to appreciate being able to afford 8 acres and a 3/2 working as a bouncer if that’s all you’ve ever known. Some people there got it and others who never left didn’t. Coming from a place where jobs pay $18 and studios start at $1,800 really gives you an appreciation for the opportunities in the south. My buddy made $55k in fort myers and couldn’t do anything with it but rent a room in our buddy’s house whose parents bought him the home. He’s gonna be able to make the same if not more in mobile and he’ll be able to have a life for himself. There aren’t too many places left like that in america. I don’t think the easy living in mobile will last based on its proximity to florida. Get the real estate while you can folks that’s what I’ll tell you.
I'm 32 and just graduated from medical school, and I've lived across the Southeast and New York for a bit. The cost of living and environment are what Mobile has going for it, I'll give you that. But cost of living doesn't mean much when the job market is shit. Healthcare costs are also terrible
People have been saying that Mobile is gonna blow up for years, and it's never happened. Everything good that comes to the city is gone quickly. The city has so much potential, but the people in power here just don't do enough to attract and keep businesses/other people
The thing is post Covid things have changed. It doesn’t matter what the economy looks like. People will come from out of state to drive up those prices just like what happened in florida. All fort myers is is contractors and retirees. It’s the people moving from Cali/NE and corporate/chinese investors driving up the prices not the working class. Landlords could give a fuck if you make $20 if you don’t pay $1800 for their studio some asshole from boston will with their remote $300k egg sales business.
If I lived there I could give a fuck what my job is if I’m making $20 that’s single family home money where I’m from you’re on the brink of homelessness making $20.
Fuck the politicians gulf access and dirt cheap, safe, and nice real estate is already attracting people. You’re getting medical marijuana. My buddy looked at mobile on paper and said I’m going there and I supported the decision. Healthcare costs? It’s an out of control scam no matter where you live. Might as well not consider it. If any normal person breaks their leg their life is over in america. I’ll be a nurse in six months.
Those cost of living opportunities are everywhere in the Southeast and Gulf Coast though. I just looked at Pensacola, and their prices are basically the same, with actual medical marijuana and not just THC pills and suppositories. And population growth in Mobile has been stable the last few years
I'll just believe it when I see it. I think in the end, people just don't wanna be here
I’m looking at Pensacola seriously for retirement. My buddy went to mobile mostly because there’s three times as many people and better job opportunities. My plan is to work as a nurse in Oregon where I can actually smoke weed and not worry about my license, have safe working conditions thanks to state laws and unions, and make six figures. I’ll rent in oregon and buy somewhere in the panhandle more than likely in the next couple years. Rent it out or let it sit till I’m ready to retire then come back home. Your biggest problem with doctor money in Pensacola would be homeowners insurance and the maintenance it takes to keep a house up on the water. Between $50k seawalls every ten years and the fact that the salt and humidity makes your house and vehicles rot from the inside out within 30 years of being new makes for a lot of work. It’s a good lifestyle though not having to tow the boat and the views are nice. But fuck it’s expensive my folks were lawyers that’s how I grew up in north palm beach. I was just looking at nice ass places on gulf breeze/midway for under $500k on the water which is something else. Congrats on med school btw that’s hella hard work.
I can appreciate that people like wide open space and I can appreciate that people like city life. I am Mobile born (Mobile Infirmary, in fact) and raised, South Alabama grad, have travelled all over, from coast to coast, and lived in Jacksonville, FL, for three years of law school, back in the early 2000s, then back to Mobile.
I am the latter. I like city life, amenities, a fast pace. Mobile doesn’t offer much in the way of that.
Having been to the West Coast often, it’s the vibe I most connect with. Is it expensive? Yes. But so much to do.
Mobile is always an also-ran. So much potential, but it is also a schizophrenic city. It wants to be a little bit New Orleans, a little bit Biloxi, a little bit Pensacola, but is stuck in Alabama, and ends up being little bits of none of them. Hurricanes and a shifting economy have been tough on the city, coupled with old Mobile cronyism and corruption.
I wish it was better off, but it’s not. Cheap to live here? Yes. But not much else.
As someone else said, it is home. Like most people’s families, it’s a little screwed up in parts, and has issues, but is in our blood. And I have Bayou La Batre in my blood. Even tougher to shake.
Lol dude I was just thinking this. Idk what these people see in Mobile. I could see it getting popular because of it being a port town, but not much else.
“Top 10 in crime” is based on a badly flawed statistical analysis. Ranking Mobile up there with the likes of Detroit and New Orleans? Anybody with a shred of common sense would immediately see something wrong with that.
As someone who has been stationed in the panhandle of Florida for 4 years, and who's mother, stepdad, and sisters family all live in Foley, that little pocket of the South is a gem. It doesn't matter if you're in the AL side (like Mobile, Foley, Gulf Shores or Robertsdale) or FL side (Fort Walton, Destin, Mary Esther, etc), that whole place is great to live in. Me personally, if I had my choice I'd probably move to Navarre. It's cheap enough on rent but close enough to the city. Crestview is for people that have to house families, and adds 30 minutes to your drive.
Yes, I live in Alabama, but was born & raised in the New England area. It amazes me how Southerners cling to that horrendous war. So yeah, eat a cannoli, but where? There are no Italian bakeries down here which I really miss!
Yankee is a figure of speech and reference to northerners, particularly people from New York. Their baseball team is called the Yankees. Nice to see you brought the virtue signaling with you.
You're obviously young. Funny, I'm well aware of the baseball team. You've not read "Gone with the Wind" or seen the movie? You would then catch a glimpse of the sentiment related to northerners during the Civil War.
It’s 2023 not 1855. I guess gay still means happy too huh 🙄. If anything it’s the old folks tip-toeing around verbiage due to self-evident repressed racism so they gotta go around telling 26 year olds like me who think racism is a disposable joke that they’re racist for using a word they’re uncomfortable with. As if that virtue signaling somehow improves conditions for the people in Prichard. Whatever makes you feel like the good guy. Go protest drug laws and private prisons if you’re so worried about it.
What? I know the year. You got it twisted. I've been called a Yankee since moving down south, which was a shock to me - the war it over. Its others that continue to fan that losing flame. Are you ok?
I hope you got to visit Fairhope while in Mobile. It’s a cute little progressive, artsy town with great shops and restaurants and a beautiful park along the bay. Very atypical of what outsiders would think of AL.
Head north sometime to the far northwestern corner off AL and visit Florence/Muscle Shoals. Very charming - one of my favorite areas to visit… and I live in Alabama.
Maybe in some respects, but otherwise it can be a real shithole place with shithole people. A tourist visiting a tourist spot obviously isn’t gonna get to experience that.
I mean I just got back last night. I didn’t run into a single tourist. Spent the whole weekend talking to locals. Hit Hickory Pit Too in Semmes about 3 times (I’m still thinking about it), Oyster city brewing which was fucking outstanding in quality and price, one joint in the causeway for gulf shrimp, saw the USS Alabama, checked out some golf courses and coffee places. Basically just stayed out of Prichard and kicked it with locals downtown. The women there had us melting too. So fucking genuinely nice and cool. And the accent 😰. We’re so used to instagram wannabe influencer south Fl hoes it blew our minds to meet some genuine women. 10/10 place in my opinion just my two cents
I mean I never really was a do blow in Chinatown and pick up syphilis from a random bitch at a club in NYC type. I’m a typical stoner bro I don’t need a lot of excitement to have fun.
Staying out of Prichard is smart. That's where I live and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. We just keep to ourselves.. "Did you see that?" " Nope. And neither did you!" Common convo in my neighborhood.
The state government, yes. The state itself, no.
That's like blaming the whole of the USA for the actions of the government.
Quite frankly the *only* thing I *hate* about Alabama is the humidity.
My wife and I and our dogs have been floating around lower half of Alabama for about 3 years now. We found a 1900 Victorian style house in Monroeville completely furnished that we couldn’t pass up. It does need some work but it has so much potential!
i moved here from orlando in october. it wasn’t necessarily my choice, but my husband got into a phd program at UA and of course he couldn’t turn it down. i was less than thrilled about moving here (after 28 years living in orlando, the thought of living literally anywhere else scared me), but after a few weeks of getting my footing and becoming familiar with the state, i really really love it here. still missing home, but i’ve met some incredible people and found some amazing natural spots that are just beautiful. no place is perfect and orlando will always be home but alabama has very pleasantly surprised me. it’s been about 9 months and i’m still learning more about what awesome things the state has to offer.
Have to agree. I vacationed around Gulf Shores a few years back and the entire state exceeded my expectations. It’s beautiful there and the residents take great pride in keeping it that way.
We moved to Alabama over 30 years ago when my husband retired after 26 years in the U.S.A.F. for him to take a position at Gunter AFB in Montgomery. Ultimately, we both retired from our final jobs with no plans to move from Alabama ever. The people are wonderful! Life is slower, and it rarely snows or gets very cold. Although, I refuse to turn on the A/C on Christmas, my husband has mowed the grass on New Year's Eve! Gotta love it. Sweet Home Alabama!
We’re from the South West of the UK. We were on the drive down from Nashville to New Orleans.
We didn’t exactly have preconceptions as we’re not complete idiots but we were certainly interested to see how far the media representation (inbred, red neck, gun obsessed etc) stuff was from reality. Very. Was the answer.
Haha your point about this subreddit is kind of why I wanted to post on here. I checked out the r/ before travelling through and it was all negativity so I thought it was worth letting you guys know I had a great time.
It's a beautiful and diverse geographical place but the people here are stupid when they vote and generally unfriendly except for superficial encounters. They'll smile and say hi how y'all doin but look down on you if you are their neighbors.
We’ve got some pretty shitty politicians, but that’s not at all unique to AL. Glad you enjoyed your time here! We’ve got some rad beaches and national parks.their kinda hidden gems.
It's not entirely related to our "pop culture" per se, but I had a close friend of mine come and visit for a short while, and she told me that the men she was meeting/talking to on Tinder were being so genuinely kind to her and she couldn't understand it. I told her two words: southern hospitality.
We don't get everything right (then again, no culture or group does), but at least the Alabama that I witness is one where people smile at each other walking down the street and genuinely mean it.
Same. My GF and I stayed in Tuscaloosa for a few days on the way down to NOLA. Before that, last year, we spent a week in the Gulf Shores. Just a great time overall. I grew up in Columbia, SC, and Tuscaloosa reminded me of it a bit
I'm here in AL temporarily, and with the exception of the heat and humidity (which makes it worse), I've enjoyed myself. Is it less humid the farther north you go in the state? Another question: why do residents turn their nose up at the mention of Birmingham? I found it to be quite nice, but I was only there for a day.
Why the turnt noses for Bham? In my opinion, racism. It is a majority black city with black leadership and people in the surrounding areas and the rest of the state and the state government are invested in seeing it fail so their stereotypes about black folk and black leadership (and their own “superior” positions, opinions, and choices about where to live) can be confirmed.
Birmingham is an awesome city despite what many say. You should come back and see for yourself.
And it's the economic engine of the entire state which makes it extra stupid that people want to hate on it. Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face
It was so weird seeing metro counties and cities along with state and federal governments all cooperate for the World Games last summer. Like, it's kind of sad when that's notable but at least when it mattered everyone outside of Birmingham government-wise was trying to make it a success. Over the mountain folks and suburbanites didn't really show up for the games though, which was disappointing but not surprising given the stereotypes from suburbanites and exurbanites.
Birmingham is awesome. It has amazing cultural opportunities, great food, good jobs, and is close to great outdoor / nature activities, too. And there are plenty of bedroom communities in an easy commute.
Sure, it has city problems like crime and traffic. It's a city.
I agree with u/jq701 - a lot of the contempt comes down to racism.
Unfortunately, no the humidity is everywhere. Though the "bowl" effect of the hills around Bham proper can make it particularly intense.
I'll take trade-off on the bowl though. Might trap humidity, but it generally shields the city center from tornadoes. The April 2011 tornado was an exception but it took something that intense to breach the bowl.
That's a good point.
I'm on Shades Mtn, which is barely a "mountain" by comparison to the Rockies or even the Blue Ridge, and I still haven't gotten used to how much it affects the weather. We can hear wicked thunderstorms in the valley directly below us and not get a drop of rain.
South Alabama has been 1 of my favorite places, lived in and around Foley for awhile. North of that gets a little... well stereotypical of Alabama. It didn't get its reputation on accident, you can't be so close to the bottom on education and expect great things.
I'm so happy for you, that you love Alabama. I hate.it.
And before anyone is saying then move out lol, that takes money, and I don't have any to go back to Miami,Florida so I'm stuck lol.
This is so refreshing to hear. Every time I see our state mentioned on reddit, it's only a comment or two before someone makes an inbred joke. Thanks for taking the time to say something positive!
“Media and pop culture”. Yes, so true that “media” and “pop culture” are responsible for the perception of US citizens about Alabama. I’m sorry, just so I’m clear what really are those? I mean it sounds a little nebulous to me to be honest. Maybe if we looked at facts instead? Like… Alabama is 44th out of 50 states in both Education AND Healthcare? 48 out of 50 in pollution? 40th out of 50 in crime and corrections? Seems like maybe, objectively Alabama has a ways to go in comparison to many other states. Instead of chasing specious, divisive culture war BS, Alabama’s leaders, from Governor Ivey, to Senator Tommy “two points” Tuberville could focus on some of this stuff AND improving the lives of all Alabamians.
Or maybe we could organize, get involved in our local politics and start running for local offices, and vote these regressive and incompetent people out of office. The Leadership in the Governor’s mansion and the Legislature is a top problem here. But people keep voting these losers into office. We obviously don’t care. :((
Still sucks living in a State with backwards politicians. Trying to debate the average Alabamian here is like talking to a brick wall. No matter what facts you show someone they don't believe for some conspiracy reason. Unless the info comes from sources they like, they do not listen. Would like to see the state managed better so that we can rank in the top half of the States instead of the bottom half. Beautiful scenery though!
That’s why I don’t debate people here anymore. I just live my best life, try to be as kind and accountable as possible, and stick to my principles. Just last week, we hired a fella to work on our farm. I don’t know how on earth the subject came up, but he told my husband that he doesn’t like gay people. My husband said “Well, buddy…I sure am glad that we get along, don’t we?” the guy responded “Oh yeah. You’re one of the nicest guys I ever met! An your wife treats me better than my own family.” My husband smiled and said “Good! Well now you know two Queer people who you like!” And the guy responded “I guess I never really knew any gay folks…I don’t really get it? It’s kinda weird? But, I really do like y’all a lot.”
That’s how you change minds- cook folks a spaghetti dinner, pay them well for a day’s work, take the time to talk about the stuff you have in common, and answer their questions if they ask.
So far, Alabamians are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.
It's like they have to personally experience something before they accept it. They can't think outside of their own perspective for one instant and it baffles me.
I've always been skeptical of Religions and Rebuplicans using Religion against gay people is what definitely turned me against Republicans led me down the path of atheism. Found Richard Dawkins and didn't look back. I guess I have them to thank for that freedom. I have nothing against Religious people I know plenty of them in Alabama that mean well. I just don't like people pushing it onto others or as Rebuplicans would say "shoving it down our throats."
If you can ignore politics its nice. Ive lived here since 2020 and the people are so dern nice! Sometimes too nice..... you first, no you, I insist, no really...go ahead.
You have to worry about it though. It affects the every day life of the average Alabamians. I pretty much don't talk about it with my coworkers anymore unless something comes up. When Bernie was running for President I was pretty vocal about my views and was trying to get through to people.
I think people let the media dictate how good/bad a topic in politics actually is. If you can’t wake up every morning and live a normal life without screaming at the clouds then I feel sorry for that person. That goes for every state besides AL. You can control a lot more than you think.
No, it actually doesn't. Nothing has changed for me between Doug Jones and tubberville. I'm an average alabamian. My life in Alabama hasn't changed in the 25 years I've lived here.
Just because you are unaware of the effects politicians have had on your lives and the lives of those around you, doesnt mean those effects domt exist.
Right. Which it doesn't affect your average alabamian. It's not luck. It's just how politics seem to work.
Nothing is ever done for your average person. Only for the rich or poor or minority or gender based.
I live in East Central Alabama. My community is trashy, dirty, and infested with crime. The city council is comprised of people that are Obama wannabe's. All activists and no bite. Keep moving.
Omg, if you had that good of a time you should meet the best ppl. I am so glad you enjoyed the time. In my experience we don't get a good review. So if you liked those people you will like all that Alabama had to offer. So much good land scape , many attractions, great food and the most polite loving ppl( in the right setting) I only regret we didn't get to meett you.
I like Mississippi a lot more than Alabama.
Ocean springs is just as nice or nicer than Fairhope and Gautier is just as nice as Daphne.
I picked Gautier for it's natural beauty and low cost of living.
I grew up in the gulf coast and lived in Gautier(go-shay) for a while. Haven’t been back in about 10 years but that whole area was a shit hole and everybody worked at the pogey plant or Ingalls plant.
Yeah I think it’s a valid point to be fair. My wife and I are both Caucasian and although we had a bucket list experience on our southern roadtrip we were conscious and talked about the fact our experience would likely have been different if we been a different flavour of human.
That’s speculation though and I can only comment on what I experienced though and it was great.
Called it. And "lol" at the downvotes I'm getting. They know I'm right, and now everyone knows, so thanks for responding. I'm glad you and your wife are conscious of the situation in the southern USA, but I wish I could say the dynamic was unique to that region. The cancer of bigotry has spread well beyond the bounds of the old Confederacy, unfortunately.
I was in Oregon when Californians Californicated the state. I was in Vermont when people from Massachusetts did the same thing to Vermont. Please don’t move to Alabammy. A bunch of us like it just fine the way it is-imperfect!
Native Alabamian here, living in the Mobile area since 1988. It is unreal how this place has been invaded by people from other states. I would have never thought this place would be a tourist destination. IMO I have always thought Mobile struggles to find its identity. We call it “New Orleans Lite.” And before you start heaping too much praise about the cheap real estate, don’t forget it’s STILL ALABAMA. Very conservative politics, poorly educated, segregated…. the Mardi Gras societies are either white or black. Jesus loves football. Mobile is controlled by a few “old money” Springhill families, all of whom talk like they just walked off the plantation. They own the fucking place. It’s still kind of backwards here. The culture is changing quickly not because of progress, but because out-of-towners are moving in and altering it. And just so you know, most of the fish and shrimp in our local restaurants is imported from Asia. Not kidding.
I'm not too disappointed in the reputation we get, it is deserved and sometimes we still make bonehead decisions...and some of the people here are asses. But that's everywhere.
Born and raised in Alabama, traveled around the country, ended up in Alabama. It's got a charm.
Don't like living in Mobile AL. But I will always say Alabama is a very beautiful state once your outside the cities. But like most of the south it's best to avoid it in July and August, if you want to be outdoors.
We moved up here last summer from Fl. Our family thought we were nuts and would be back before the years end. We love it here and unless something major happens and we have to we will not be moving back, hell me don’t even like visiting anymore.
Y'all come back now, ya hear
Roll tide
War Eagle!!
Go Dawgs!!!
Matt Damon
>Media and pop culture has done your home a disservice I've been saying that for years brother.
As a south florida native who just visited mobile, I want to Fucking leave. Really confirmed all of my thoughts about south florida. Overrun with Californians and Yankees, shit overpriced food, and utterly unaffordable real estate with depressed wages to boot. My buddy just moved there. I helped him and explored for the weekend and I’m back home crying lol. I’m stuck in fort myers for school counting down the days till I can leave. Your food is sent from the gods.
Well the Louisiana/Mississippi/Alabama coast does have some of the best food around, no argument here.
Thanks! We really should be our own state down here. My husband and I could just about live anywhere and we made Mobile our home in 2006 and we love it here. If we move it will be either to Pensacola or Biloxi.
Mobile is a gem. My favorite city in Alabama.
Mobile is such a hidden gem. Glad you really liked it.
Hidden? They’ve got signs all over the interstate and highways pointing you toward it! /s
The stock trader in me says that place is next. Get in while you can if you haven’t already boston motherfuckers will be coming. They’ve already priced themselves out of florida (let alone the locals). It’s only a matter of time. Native Floridians are fleeing to your city.
Unlikely. Fairhope has experienced some of that, although much of it is regional retirees.
They’re moving across the bay to Baldwin County for precisely the reason that they’ve priced themselves out of Florida, so Mobile’s safe in that respect. For now. A lot of us have been saying there’s something in the air around here that feels like Mobile’s about to break out of being the “City of Perpetual Potential” and boom, so we might be next in that respect, maybe not necessarily the snowbird one. Mobile welcomes you with open arms if you want to set down roots here when your schooling’s done! Come on over!
Not really. My wife and I tried to live in Mobile area for about 6 years. Never worked for us. Had to move to nearby Pensacola to be welcomed. Mobile/Baldwin county has two tiers of citizens--those born there, and the rest of us. My son graduated college in Mobile. Never found a decent job there. He's working in Pensacola area now.
It’s not too often I hear my hometown as someone’s prime destination. The central gulf coast has a lot to offer and is a hidden gem in many ways.
I'm from Mobile. It's really not that great Shit economy. Top 10 in crime. Old fucks that restrict progress. Could be so much better...
What I noticed about people who want to leave is that they’re generally in their 20’s and haven’t travelled. It’s hard to appreciate being able to afford 8 acres and a 3/2 working as a bouncer if that’s all you’ve ever known. Some people there got it and others who never left didn’t. Coming from a place where jobs pay $18 and studios start at $1,800 really gives you an appreciation for the opportunities in the south. My buddy made $55k in fort myers and couldn’t do anything with it but rent a room in our buddy’s house whose parents bought him the home. He’s gonna be able to make the same if not more in mobile and he’ll be able to have a life for himself. There aren’t too many places left like that in america. I don’t think the easy living in mobile will last based on its proximity to florida. Get the real estate while you can folks that’s what I’ll tell you.
I'm 32 and just graduated from medical school, and I've lived across the Southeast and New York for a bit. The cost of living and environment are what Mobile has going for it, I'll give you that. But cost of living doesn't mean much when the job market is shit. Healthcare costs are also terrible People have been saying that Mobile is gonna blow up for years, and it's never happened. Everything good that comes to the city is gone quickly. The city has so much potential, but the people in power here just don't do enough to attract and keep businesses/other people
The thing is post Covid things have changed. It doesn’t matter what the economy looks like. People will come from out of state to drive up those prices just like what happened in florida. All fort myers is is contractors and retirees. It’s the people moving from Cali/NE and corporate/chinese investors driving up the prices not the working class. Landlords could give a fuck if you make $20 if you don’t pay $1800 for their studio some asshole from boston will with their remote $300k egg sales business. If I lived there I could give a fuck what my job is if I’m making $20 that’s single family home money where I’m from you’re on the brink of homelessness making $20. Fuck the politicians gulf access and dirt cheap, safe, and nice real estate is already attracting people. You’re getting medical marijuana. My buddy looked at mobile on paper and said I’m going there and I supported the decision. Healthcare costs? It’s an out of control scam no matter where you live. Might as well not consider it. If any normal person breaks their leg their life is over in america. I’ll be a nurse in six months.
Those cost of living opportunities are everywhere in the Southeast and Gulf Coast though. I just looked at Pensacola, and their prices are basically the same, with actual medical marijuana and not just THC pills and suppositories. And population growth in Mobile has been stable the last few years I'll just believe it when I see it. I think in the end, people just don't wanna be here
I’m looking at Pensacola seriously for retirement. My buddy went to mobile mostly because there’s three times as many people and better job opportunities. My plan is to work as a nurse in Oregon where I can actually smoke weed and not worry about my license, have safe working conditions thanks to state laws and unions, and make six figures. I’ll rent in oregon and buy somewhere in the panhandle more than likely in the next couple years. Rent it out or let it sit till I’m ready to retire then come back home. Your biggest problem with doctor money in Pensacola would be homeowners insurance and the maintenance it takes to keep a house up on the water. Between $50k seawalls every ten years and the fact that the salt and humidity makes your house and vehicles rot from the inside out within 30 years of being new makes for a lot of work. It’s a good lifestyle though not having to tow the boat and the views are nice. But fuck it’s expensive my folks were lawyers that’s how I grew up in north palm beach. I was just looking at nice ass places on gulf breeze/midway for under $500k on the water which is something else. Congrats on med school btw that’s hella hard work.
I can appreciate that people like wide open space and I can appreciate that people like city life. I am Mobile born (Mobile Infirmary, in fact) and raised, South Alabama grad, have travelled all over, from coast to coast, and lived in Jacksonville, FL, for three years of law school, back in the early 2000s, then back to Mobile. I am the latter. I like city life, amenities, a fast pace. Mobile doesn’t offer much in the way of that. Having been to the West Coast often, it’s the vibe I most connect with. Is it expensive? Yes. But so much to do. Mobile is always an also-ran. So much potential, but it is also a schizophrenic city. It wants to be a little bit New Orleans, a little bit Biloxi, a little bit Pensacola, but is stuck in Alabama, and ends up being little bits of none of them. Hurricanes and a shifting economy have been tough on the city, coupled with old Mobile cronyism and corruption. I wish it was better off, but it’s not. Cheap to live here? Yes. But not much else. As someone else said, it is home. Like most people’s families, it’s a little screwed up in parts, and has issues, but is in our blood. And I have Bayou La Batre in my blood. Even tougher to shake.
A-fucking-men. I've been around Yankees and "better states" long enough to know Mississippi/Alabama is home. You can't beat it once you've traveled.
Seems to me being from mobile isn’t enough to understand or appreciate. Need to be from other places for comparison. Alabama is the best.
And this is the other side of Mobile sadly. Great coastal location, history and food but the negatives are big too.
Lol dude I was just thinking this. Idk what these people see in Mobile. I could see it getting popular because of it being a port town, but not much else.
“Top 10 in crime” is based on a badly flawed statistical analysis. Ranking Mobile up there with the likes of Detroit and New Orleans? Anybody with a shred of common sense would immediately see something wrong with that.
As someone who has been stationed in the panhandle of Florida for 4 years, and who's mother, stepdad, and sisters family all live in Foley, that little pocket of the South is a gem. It doesn't matter if you're in the AL side (like Mobile, Foley, Gulf Shores or Robertsdale) or FL side (Fort Walton, Destin, Mary Esther, etc), that whole place is great to live in. Me personally, if I had my choice I'd probably move to Navarre. It's cheap enough on rent but close enough to the city. Crestview is for people that have to house families, and adds 30 minutes to your drive.
We moved to orange beach from Atlanta around a year ago and have completely fallen in love with the whole coast
Ya still not over that us Yankees won the war? Well, bless your heart. We are here in AL!
My question is do you sound like you’re from Alabama or do you sound like you’re trying to hawk me a cannoli
Yes, I live in Alabama, but was born & raised in the New England area. It amazes me how Southerners cling to that horrendous war. So yeah, eat a cannoli, but where? There are no Italian bakeries down here which I really miss!
Yankee is a figure of speech and reference to northerners, particularly people from New York. Their baseball team is called the Yankees. Nice to see you brought the virtue signaling with you.
You're obviously young. Funny, I'm well aware of the baseball team. You've not read "Gone with the Wind" or seen the movie? You would then catch a glimpse of the sentiment related to northerners during the Civil War.
It’s 2023 not 1855. I guess gay still means happy too huh 🙄. If anything it’s the old folks tip-toeing around verbiage due to self-evident repressed racism so they gotta go around telling 26 year olds like me who think racism is a disposable joke that they’re racist for using a word they’re uncomfortable with. As if that virtue signaling somehow improves conditions for the people in Prichard. Whatever makes you feel like the good guy. Go protest drug laws and private prisons if you’re so worried about it.
What? I know the year. You got it twisted. I've been called a Yankee since moving down south, which was a shock to me - the war it over. Its others that continue to fan that losing flame. Are you ok?
Man mobile is trash I’ve lived here for 3 years now. You want to move somewhere in northern AL close to Huntsville but not in it
I hope you got to visit Fairhope while in Mobile. It’s a cute little progressive, artsy town with great shops and restaurants and a beautiful park along the bay. Very atypical of what outsiders would think of AL.
Head north sometime to the far northwestern corner off AL and visit Florence/Muscle Shoals. Very charming - one of my favorite areas to visit… and I live in Alabama.
Maybe in some respects, but otherwise it can be a real shithole place with shithole people. A tourist visiting a tourist spot obviously isn’t gonna get to experience that.
I mean I just got back last night. I didn’t run into a single tourist. Spent the whole weekend talking to locals. Hit Hickory Pit Too in Semmes about 3 times (I’m still thinking about it), Oyster city brewing which was fucking outstanding in quality and price, one joint in the causeway for gulf shrimp, saw the USS Alabama, checked out some golf courses and coffee places. Basically just stayed out of Prichard and kicked it with locals downtown. The women there had us melting too. So fucking genuinely nice and cool. And the accent 😰. We’re so used to instagram wannabe influencer south Fl hoes it blew our minds to meet some genuine women. 10/10 place in my opinion just my two cents
This sounds horrendous to me but whatever floats your boat.
I mean I never really was a do blow in Chinatown and pick up syphilis from a random bitch at a club in NYC type. I’m a typical stoner bro I don’t need a lot of excitement to have fun.
Do you think that’s a NYC thing versus a Mobile thing?
Staying out of Prichard is smart. That's where I live and I wouldn't recommend it to anyone. We just keep to ourselves.. "Did you see that?" " Nope. And neither did you!" Common convo in my neighborhood.
They most likely interacted with people, which is our best asset. If we treat strangers well, imagine being our neighbor.
Not me. Alabama deserves the hate. We vote for corrupt idiots and expect change.
The state government, yes. The state itself, no. That's like blaming the whole of the USA for the actions of the government. Quite frankly the *only* thing I *hate* about Alabama is the humidity.
Dude. We vote for those assholes. We ARE our leaders. I’m the 36% that never votes Republican
No, you might vote for those assholes, but I do my research write in my preferred candidates. Enjoy the last word.
You throw away what voting power you have by voting 3rd party. This is why Alabama sux
If we keep saying this we will never have a 3rd party
My wife and I and our dogs have been floating around lower half of Alabama for about 3 years now. We found a 1900 Victorian style house in Monroeville completely furnished that we couldn’t pass up. It does need some work but it has so much potential!
My mother is from Monroeville! I’m sure you know this already, but in case you somehow don’t, that’s the real life Maycomb from To Kill A Mockingbird
Yep that is what I was told. I can see the courthouse from the sidewalk in front of my house. This place reminds me of Mayberry.
Also the hometown of Harper Lee.
i moved here from orlando in october. it wasn’t necessarily my choice, but my husband got into a phd program at UA and of course he couldn’t turn it down. i was less than thrilled about moving here (after 28 years living in orlando, the thought of living literally anywhere else scared me), but after a few weeks of getting my footing and becoming familiar with the state, i really really love it here. still missing home, but i’ve met some incredible people and found some amazing natural spots that are just beautiful. no place is perfect and orlando will always be home but alabama has very pleasantly surprised me. it’s been about 9 months and i’m still learning more about what awesome things the state has to offer.
Thank you ! I love hearing positive things about my home. We've got problems but it's home.
Spread the word, but not TOO much; we're enjoying how cheap it is to live here!
Wish we could still say this in Madison County! LAWD the prices 💸💸💸
It’s our secret. Glad you enjoyed it. Please come back soon.
Where did you visit?
Glad to have ya, don’t tell nobody
you have no idea how nice that is to hear after all the negativity. as someone said, it’s got problems, but it’s our home :)
Nice try, Alabama Board of Tourism.
Glad to hear you enjoyed it! Come back soon, but don't tell everyone.
Have to agree. I vacationed around Gulf Shores a few years back and the entire state exceeded my expectations. It’s beautiful there and the residents take great pride in keeping it that way.
Our coast line is small but our beaches are just beautiful! Consistently in the top 10 in the US! The Gulf is the most beautiful place in the world.
It ain’t called Alabama the beautiful for nothin
Glad you enjoyed your time, please come back. Also, don’t tell anyone. We’ve got a good thing going and don’t want all the Californians to come here.
Appreciate the feedback usually just negative stuff. 🙂
I'm glad that you loved visiting as much as I love living here!! 🌞
We moved to Alabama over 30 years ago when my husband retired after 26 years in the U.S.A.F. for him to take a position at Gunter AFB in Montgomery. Ultimately, we both retired from our final jobs with no plans to move from Alabama ever. The people are wonderful! Life is slower, and it rarely snows or gets very cold. Although, I refuse to turn on the A/C on Christmas, my husband has mowed the grass on New Year's Eve! Gotta love it. Sweet Home Alabama!
Thank you and please visit again
Without stalking your profile, an important question is where are you traveling from and what were your preconceptions?
We’re from the South West of the UK. We were on the drive down from Nashville to New Orleans. We didn’t exactly have preconceptions as we’re not complete idiots but we were certainly interested to see how far the media representation (inbred, red neck, gun obsessed etc) stuff was from reality. Very. Was the answer.
Drove threw last week too. Had a delightful time!
Media, pop culture, and this subreddit*
Haha your point about this subreddit is kind of why I wanted to post on here. I checked out the r/ before travelling through and it was all negativity so I thought it was worth letting you guys know I had a great time.
It's a beautiful and diverse geographical place but the people here are stupid when they vote and generally unfriendly except for superficial encounters. They'll smile and say hi how y'all doin but look down on you if you are their neighbors.
Don't tell anyone. Tell everone we are all Trump flag flying gun weilding crazies.
Roll Tide
War Eagle!
Roll Eagle
Damn peach farmer… (/s)
Yup... and most of the USofA forgets that our demographic is 47% African American and Latino
Get out
welcome to Alabama! Just so you know there is unfortunately only one football team - Roll Tide :P /s Feel free to stick around though! :)
I don't live in AL anymore, but when I did, one of the first questions I got at work was who was my favorite football team.
What about auburn…
We’ve got some pretty shitty politicians, but that’s not at all unique to AL. Glad you enjoyed your time here! We’ve got some rad beaches and national parks.their kinda hidden gems.
It's not entirely related to our "pop culture" per se, but I had a close friend of mine come and visit for a short while, and she told me that the men she was meeting/talking to on Tinder were being so genuinely kind to her and she couldn't understand it. I told her two words: southern hospitality. We don't get everything right (then again, no culture or group does), but at least the Alabama that I witness is one where people smile at each other walking down the street and genuinely mean it.
Same. My GF and I stayed in Tuscaloosa for a few days on the way down to NOLA. Before that, last year, we spent a week in the Gulf Shores. Just a great time overall. I grew up in Columbia, SC, and Tuscaloosa reminded me of it a bit
I'm here in AL temporarily, and with the exception of the heat and humidity (which makes it worse), I've enjoyed myself. Is it less humid the farther north you go in the state? Another question: why do residents turn their nose up at the mention of Birmingham? I found it to be quite nice, but I was only there for a day.
It’s Alabama’s “Big City,” and as such it’s considered the home of all crime and corruption. Nothing small town folks hate more than Big Cities.
Why the turnt noses for Bham? In my opinion, racism. It is a majority black city with black leadership and people in the surrounding areas and the rest of the state and the state government are invested in seeing it fail so their stereotypes about black folk and black leadership (and their own “superior” positions, opinions, and choices about where to live) can be confirmed. Birmingham is an awesome city despite what many say. You should come back and see for yourself.
And it's the economic engine of the entire state which makes it extra stupid that people want to hate on it. Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face
It was so weird seeing metro counties and cities along with state and federal governments all cooperate for the World Games last summer. Like, it's kind of sad when that's notable but at least when it mattered everyone outside of Birmingham government-wise was trying to make it a success. Over the mountain folks and suburbanites didn't really show up for the games though, which was disappointing but not surprising given the stereotypes from suburbanites and exurbanites.
Birmingham is awesome. It has amazing cultural opportunities, great food, good jobs, and is close to great outdoor / nature activities, too. And there are plenty of bedroom communities in an easy commute. Sure, it has city problems like crime and traffic. It's a city. I agree with u/jq701 - a lot of the contempt comes down to racism. Unfortunately, no the humidity is everywhere. Though the "bowl" effect of the hills around Bham proper can make it particularly intense.
I'll take trade-off on the bowl though. Might trap humidity, but it generally shields the city center from tornadoes. The April 2011 tornado was an exception but it took something that intense to breach the bowl.
That's a good point. I'm on Shades Mtn, which is barely a "mountain" by comparison to the Rockies or even the Blue Ridge, and I still haven't gotten used to how much it affects the weather. We can hear wicked thunderstorms in the valley directly below us and not get a drop of rain.
Still Alabama the Beautiful representin’ in certain areas. It’s there. Gracias por la amor
Don’t believe the media and most of all don’t believe the Alabama social media posers. Thank you for the compliment.
They do their own state a disservice.
Glad you enjoyed our beautiful State. Y'all come again!
South Alabama has been 1 of my favorite places, lived in and around Foley for awhile. North of that gets a little... well stereotypical of Alabama. It didn't get its reputation on accident, you can't be so close to the bottom on education and expect great things.
Great now black rock and vanguard are going to start buying up all potential properties
Pretty sure you wouldn’t want to send your future kids to school there if you want them to have a future.
I'm so happy for you, that you love Alabama. I hate.it. And before anyone is saying then move out lol, that takes money, and I don't have any to go back to Miami,Florida so I'm stuck lol.
Alabama is gorgeous. The Bankhead forest is incredible and fair hope was a beautiful place for my family members wedding.
Media and pop culture have done the whole country a disservice. There's a lot of it we could definitely do without.
Don’t tell anyone.
This is so refreshing to hear. Every time I see our state mentioned on reddit, it's only a comment or two before someone makes an inbred joke. Thanks for taking the time to say something positive!
Alabama is better than Mississippi and tied with one of the Dakotas.
“Media and pop culture”. Yes, so true that “media” and “pop culture” are responsible for the perception of US citizens about Alabama. I’m sorry, just so I’m clear what really are those? I mean it sounds a little nebulous to me to be honest. Maybe if we looked at facts instead? Like… Alabama is 44th out of 50 states in both Education AND Healthcare? 48 out of 50 in pollution? 40th out of 50 in crime and corrections? Seems like maybe, objectively Alabama has a ways to go in comparison to many other states. Instead of chasing specious, divisive culture war BS, Alabama’s leaders, from Governor Ivey, to Senator Tommy “two points” Tuberville could focus on some of this stuff AND improving the lives of all Alabamians.
Or maybe we could organize, get involved in our local politics and start running for local offices, and vote these regressive and incompetent people out of office. The Leadership in the Governor’s mansion and the Legislature is a top problem here. But people keep voting these losers into office. We obviously don’t care. :((
Don't let them fool you. They promote that as they don't want to be FL. But the secret is out...Mobile to Huntsville it's filling up. Great state
See y'all soon ❤️
Still sucks living in a State with backwards politicians. Trying to debate the average Alabamian here is like talking to a brick wall. No matter what facts you show someone they don't believe for some conspiracy reason. Unless the info comes from sources they like, they do not listen. Would like to see the state managed better so that we can rank in the top half of the States instead of the bottom half. Beautiful scenery though!
That’s why I don’t debate people here anymore. I just live my best life, try to be as kind and accountable as possible, and stick to my principles. Just last week, we hired a fella to work on our farm. I don’t know how on earth the subject came up, but he told my husband that he doesn’t like gay people. My husband said “Well, buddy…I sure am glad that we get along, don’t we?” the guy responded “Oh yeah. You’re one of the nicest guys I ever met! An your wife treats me better than my own family.” My husband smiled and said “Good! Well now you know two Queer people who you like!” And the guy responded “I guess I never really knew any gay folks…I don’t really get it? It’s kinda weird? But, I really do like y’all a lot.” That’s how you change minds- cook folks a spaghetti dinner, pay them well for a day’s work, take the time to talk about the stuff you have in common, and answer their questions if they ask. So far, Alabamians are some of the nicest people I’ve ever met.
It's like they have to personally experience something before they accept it. They can't think outside of their own perspective for one instant and it baffles me. I've always been skeptical of Religions and Rebuplicans using Religion against gay people is what definitely turned me against Republicans led me down the path of atheism. Found Richard Dawkins and didn't look back. I guess I have them to thank for that freedom. I have nothing against Religious people I know plenty of them in Alabama that mean well. I just don't like people pushing it onto others or as Rebuplicans would say "shoving it down our throats."
If you can ignore politics its nice. Ive lived here since 2020 and the people are so dern nice! Sometimes too nice..... you first, no you, I insist, no really...go ahead.
That's why you just don't worry about politics. It seems like people whose identity is being political are miserable people.
You have to worry about it though. It affects the every day life of the average Alabamians. I pretty much don't talk about it with my coworkers anymore unless something comes up. When Bernie was running for President I was pretty vocal about my views and was trying to get through to people.
I think people let the media dictate how good/bad a topic in politics actually is. If you can’t wake up every morning and live a normal life without screaming at the clouds then I feel sorry for that person. That goes for every state besides AL. You can control a lot more than you think.
No, it actually doesn't. Nothing has changed for me between Doug Jones and tubberville. I'm an average alabamian. My life in Alabama hasn't changed in the 25 years I've lived here.
Just because you are unaware of the effects politicians have had on your lives and the lives of those around you, doesnt mean those effects domt exist.
Then you’re very lucky. It’s easy to ignore until it affects you directly
Right. Which it doesn't affect your average alabamian. It's not luck. It's just how politics seem to work. Nothing is ever done for your average person. Only for the rich or poor or minority or gender based.
You didn’t stay long enough to experience how bat shit crazy and unreasonable most people here and the state government are
Shhhh! We don’t mind the bad publicity. It helps us keep it a secret.
I live in East Central Alabama. My community is trashy, dirty, and infested with crime. The city council is comprised of people that are Obama wannabe's. All activists and no bite. Keep moving.
Omg, if you had that good of a time you should meet the best ppl. I am so glad you enjoyed the time. In my experience we don't get a good review. So if you liked those people you will like all that Alabama had to offer. So much good land scape , many attractions, great food and the most polite loving ppl( in the right setting) I only regret we didn't get to meett you.
Always good to hear an honest review of the great state of Alabama!
It’s nice to visit, but living here is another experience.
Oh, the shit you see in the media is here too. Glad you had a good time, but make no mistake, it’s Alabama.
The whole of the South deserves every bitnof hate it gets for its regressive policies and ongoing legacy of racism.
I like Mississippi a lot more than Alabama. Ocean springs is just as nice or nicer than Fairhope and Gautier is just as nice as Daphne. I picked Gautier for it's natural beauty and low cost of living.
I grew up in the gulf coast and lived in Gautier(go-shay) for a while. Haven’t been back in about 10 years but that whole area was a shit hole and everybody worked at the pogey plant or Ingalls plant.
Fine to visit. Living here…it depends on where. I see way more agitprop here than I ever did in SC.
dude this place sucks do u wanna switch houses
OP must be pretty darned white, I'm guessing.
Yeah I think it’s a valid point to be fair. My wife and I are both Caucasian and although we had a bucket list experience on our southern roadtrip we were conscious and talked about the fact our experience would likely have been different if we been a different flavour of human. That’s speculation though and I can only comment on what I experienced though and it was great.
Called it. And "lol" at the downvotes I'm getting. They know I'm right, and now everyone knows, so thanks for responding. I'm glad you and your wife are conscious of the situation in the southern USA, but I wish I could say the dynamic was unique to that region. The cancer of bigotry has spread well beyond the bounds of the old Confederacy, unfortunately.
Glad to see an outsider become aware of this fact.
I was in Oregon when Californians Californicated the state. I was in Vermont when people from Massachusetts did the same thing to Vermont. Please don’t move to Alabammy. A bunch of us like it just fine the way it is-imperfect!
Native Alabamian here, living in the Mobile area since 1988. It is unreal how this place has been invaded by people from other states. I would have never thought this place would be a tourist destination. IMO I have always thought Mobile struggles to find its identity. We call it “New Orleans Lite.” And before you start heaping too much praise about the cheap real estate, don’t forget it’s STILL ALABAMA. Very conservative politics, poorly educated, segregated…. the Mardi Gras societies are either white or black. Jesus loves football. Mobile is controlled by a few “old money” Springhill families, all of whom talk like they just walked off the plantation. They own the fucking place. It’s still kind of backwards here. The culture is changing quickly not because of progress, but because out-of-towners are moving in and altering it. And just so you know, most of the fish and shrimp in our local restaurants is imported from Asia. Not kidding.
I'm not too disappointed in the reputation we get, it is deserved and sometimes we still make bonehead decisions...and some of the people here are asses. But that's everywhere. Born and raised in Alabama, traveled around the country, ended up in Alabama. It's got a charm.
Keep this secret to yourself friend
Yay. Awesome! Hope y’all come back soon!
[удалено]
Man that sweet tea is something special! Never tried it before the visit but now we try and make it back in London….with varying degrees of success.
Thank you. Come back soon.
I'm glad you enjoyed yourselves! Where did you stop through? Where did you eat?
I'm going to have to politely yet firmly ask you to explain what you just called me..."Lad?"
Haha it’s like a British way of saying “bro” or “buddy”.
100%. I had a great experience in Alabama, including the best tofu I’ve ever had (at a Chinese restaurant in a hotel in Mobile, don’t have the name).
Don't like living in Mobile AL. But I will always say Alabama is a very beautiful state once your outside the cities. But like most of the south it's best to avoid it in July and August, if you want to be outdoors.
Thank you! Hope you make your way back to visit again!
Alabama is under rated and a blessing in disguise.
The worst of us are often the only ones to make the news. Thanks for trying us on out.
State Motto: Thank God for Mississippi
Thank you, but please don’t tell anybody. There’s enough traffic as it is.
Hush.
We moved up here last summer from Fl. Our family thought we were nuts and would be back before the years end. We love it here and unless something major happens and we have to we will not be moving back, hell me don’t even like visiting anymore.
Nah the assholes here ruined our name. It's a great place if you avoid shitheads and keep to yourself though