Local Information for Alabama

Located in the United State’s southeastern region, the state of Alabama is also known by three nicknames: Yellowhammer State, Heart of Dixie, and the Cotton State. There are many stories about how the state got its name. One story says that Alabama actually means “thicket clearers” because of the two compound words that it is made of: Alba, which means a thick mass, and ammo, which means to gather, to clear, or to collect. Other sources also indicate that Alabama is actually the name of a southern Indian tribe who made their home in the area that is now central Alabama.

Alabama’s largest city, according to total land area is Huntsville. Population-wise, though, Birmingham is the state’s largest city. Montgomery, a city that sits on the Alabama River, is the state’s capital. The saltwater port of Alabama, Mobile, is also its oldest city.

Families who want to build a home in Alabama will be glad to know that the state is home to some of the country’s best educational institutions. It has three medical schools, five law schools, two veterinary colleges, and 17 private universities offering undergraduate and graduate courses.

Affordable Housing in Alabama

There are several options for families looking for affordable housing in Alabama. The Alabama Housing Finance Authority or AHFA is one of these options. Through its Homeownership Programs and rental programs, the AHFA makes housing an affordable choice for low and moderate income families. This Alabama housing authority offers HOME funds, Housing Credits, and Multi-family bonds.

For those who plan to reside in Birmingham, the Housing Authority of Birmingham District (HABD) offers affordable housing options for low and middle income individuals or families. It is Alabama’s largest conventional public housing and tenant-based assisted housing provider.

Montgomery residents, on the other hand, can rely on the help and assistance of the Montgomery Housing Authority (MHA). With around eight public housing properties, the MHA is Alabama’s third largest authority in public housing.

Rental Assistance in Alabama

If you’re looking for rental assistance in Alabama, the Alabama Association of Housing and Redevelopment Authorities or AAHRA is the right authority to turn to. It provides not only public housing assistance, but also Section 8 (or the Housing Choice Voucher/HCV) rental assistance to thousands of Alabama residents. The HCV is funded by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development or HUD and offers equal housing opportunities to less privileged individuals and families.

The AAHRA gets help from 150 housing authorities throughout the state. Safe, clean, and good housing options are made available to families, as well as to the disabled and elderly members of the community. Private housing is also made possible by the AAHRA.

With rental assistance from any of these authorities, moving to and setting up a home in Alabama will easily become a reality. This also means you can own a private home and stay away from public housing. Find your Alabama home now and build a better future for your family.