The Alabama Association of Realtors® this week included Andalusia in a published list of “10 small Alabama towns with great livability.”
The list is featured on the organization’s website and its social media pages.
“While cities make headlines, small towns more quietly go about the business of providing a sense of community, safety, and prosperity,” the article states. “These 10 were chosen based on safety, quality of life, cost of living, population, and schools.”
The article says of the city, “Andalusia doesn’t feel small when it comes to community life and activities. Among the city’s most popular annual events are Christmas in Candyland featuring snow and treats attracting visitors from across the region, and the World Championship Domino Tournament brings in competitors from across the country.
“Andalusia is home to Lurleen B. Wallace Community College and its own city school system. Cultural offerings include the notable Andalusia Ballet which features classical ballet performances including the annual Nutcracker. Nature lovers will enjoy the nearby Conecuh National Forest, Sepulga River, and Gantt Lake.”
Mayor Earl Johnson said, “We are honored to be included on this list of most livable communities. We work very hard with the Chamber of Commerce and other organizations to ensure we have a quality of life that draws people here.
“We know that Christmas in Candyland and JulyJamz are big events for us, and we are constantly looking for other events that improve the quality of life for local residents and could become annual draws for Andalusia,” the mayor said. “We believe our efforts with downtown redevelopment, and our constant quest to nurture local businesses and help build our retail trade area will help keep us ranked among the state’s most livable cities.”
Andalusia was one of only two cities in South Alabama included on the list. Neighboring Brewton, also is listed. Other Alabama cities on the list are Chelsea, Cullman, Guntersville, Hartselle, Jacksonville, Millbrook, Montevallo and Muscle Shoals.