Welcome Home
New to Rocket City? We've Got You Covered
Your complete relocation checklist and starter guide to making Huntsville & Madison County feel like home
Your complete relocation checklist and starter guide to making Huntsville & Madison County feel like home
Huntsville isn't just a place to live—it's a thriving community where innovation meets Southern hospitality.
Founded in 1805, Huntsville has evolved from a small cotton town to become one of the fastest-growing cities in the Southeast. The city earned its nickname "The Rocket City" after World War II, when Dr. Wernher von Braun and his team of German rocket scientists arrived to develop America's space program at Redstone Arsenal.
It was here that the Saturn V rocket—the vehicle that took humans to the moon—was designed and tested. Today, that legacy continues with NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center, the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, and hundreds of aerospace and defense companies calling Huntsville home.
Huntsville's rich history is preserved in its charming historic districts, including the Twickenham Historic District—the largest antebellum district in Alabama—featuring stunning 19th-century architecture and tree-lined streets.
225,000+
Metro Area: 500,000+
51%
Bachelor's degree or higher
$65,000+
Above national average
Aerospace
Defense, Tech, Healthcare
Home to NASA, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and over 300 tech companies. One of the highest concentrations of engineers per capita in the U.S.
Low cost of living with no state income tax on pensions and high-paying jobs. Housing costs well below major metro areas.
Nestled in the Appalachian foothills with stunning mountain views, lakes, caves, and over 100 miles of greenways and trails.
From Southern BBQ to international cuisine, craft breweries, and a growing farm-to-table movement with award-winning restaurants.
Excellent public and private schools, plus UAH, Alabama A&M, and Calhoun Community College for higher education.
Friendly neighbors, strong sense of community, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes newcomers feel at home quickly.
Follow these steps to make your move smooth and stress-free
Research neighborhoods based on your lifestyle, commute, and school needs. Each area has its own character—from suburban family havens to urban downtown living.
Browse Neighborhood GuidesGet connected with electricity (Huntsville Utilities), water, internet, trash service, and set up your Alabama driver's license and vehicle registration.
View Utilities & Contact InfoDiscover your new favorite coffee shop, grocery store, restaurants, parks, and weekend hangouts. Get recommendations from locals who know best.
Explore Things To DoJoin local Facebook groups, attend neighborhood events, visit the Space & Rocket Center, and start building your Rocket City social circle.
Join Our Facebook CommunityUnderstand Rocket City pride, embrace Southern hospitality, learn about Huntsville's space heritage, and discover what makes this community special.
Learn About Huntsville's HistoryQuick access to everything you need to get settled
Huntsville Hospital, urgent care, pediatricians, and specialty providers
Huntsville Hospital
📞 (256) 265-1000
📍 101 Sivley Rd SW
Huntsville City Schools, Madison City Schools, and private school options
Huntsville City Schools
📞 (256) 428-6800
Madison City Schools
📞 (256) 464-8369
Bridge Street, Mid City, Target, Publix, Whole Foods, and local markets
Bridge Street Town Centre
📍 6767 Old Madison Pike
Gyms, yoga studios, parks, greenways, and outdoor activity spots
Huntsville Parks & Recreation
📞 (256) 883-3700
DMV, voter registration, library cards, and municipal services
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency
📞 (256) 539-6890
HMCPL Main Library
📞 (256) 532-5940
Voter Registration
📞 (256) 532-3570
Essential services and places to stay while getting settled
Huntsville Utilities
Electric, Water, Gas - (256) 535-1200
Internet Providers
Xfinity, AT&T, WOW!, Google Fiber (select areas)
Waste Management
City of Huntsville Solid Waste - (256) 427-5100
Madison Utilities
Electric, Water - (256) 772-5533
Natural Gas
Spire (formerly Alagasco) - (800) 292-4008
Internet Providers
Xfinity, AT&T, WOW!
Alabama DMV
Driver's license & vehicle registration
Library Card
Huntsville-Madison County Public Library
Voter Registration
Madison County Board of Registrars
Close to dining, entertainment, and Big Spring Park. Ideal for urban explorers.
AC Hotel Huntsville Downtown
📍 300 Williams Ave SW
📞 (256) 327-9400
The Westin Huntsville
📍 6800 Governors West NW
📞 (256) 428-2000
SpringHill Suites Downtown
📍 320 Williams Ave SW
📞 (256) 327-8911
Near Redstone Arsenal and tech companies. Perfect for business travelers.
Embassy Suites Huntsville
📍 800 Monroe St SW
📞 (256) 539-7775
Marriott Huntsville
📍 5 Tranquility Base
📞 (256) 830-2222
Hampton Inn & Suites
📍 4815 University Dr NW
📞 (256) 830-9400
Weekly and monthly rates for those needing longer-term housing during transition.
Extended Stay America
📍 4020 Independence Dr
📞 (256) 721-2472
Homewood Suites
📍 4880 University Dr NW
📞 (256) 971-0777
Residence Inn Madison
📍 8940 Madison Blvd
📞 (256) 430-8777
Pro Tip for House Hunters
Book an extended stay hotel or Airbnb for your first few weeks. This gives you time to explore neighborhoods in person before committing to a lease or purchase. Many corporate relocations also offer temporary housing assistance.
Rocket City Insider members get special welcome perks—local discounts, insider recommendations, and exclusive access to help you settle in faster