Alabama is known as one of the best states for military members to retire, with the Montgomery area a popular location. In addition to this Southern city’s affordable home prices, a lower than average cost of living, and some of the lowest property taxes in the nation, numerous factors draw military retirees to settle in the area.
The state of Alabama has a veteran population of over 377,000, according to the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs, with over 15,000 living in Montgomery County. The nearby Air Force bases of Maxwell AFB and Gunter Annex give retirees easy access to base amenities in the River Region.
The greater Maxwell-Gunter community is considered welcoming and supportive of military families, and you'll find civilian community engagement all year long, whether it's a job fair, festival, or holiday event.
Thinking about settling near Maxwell AFB after your military service? Here’s why you'll love it.
1. Good Economic Environment
If you're hoping to open your own business and pursue the entrepreneur life after the military, you'll be in good company in Alabama.
With over 45,000 veteran-owned businesses across the state, this means that "11.8% of the total number of businesses in Alabama are majority-owned (51% +) by veterans, which is nearly 31% (+2.76%) higher than the national average of 9.04%." (Source: Veteran Owned Business.)
The Montgomery area also ranks high in job opportunities for veterans, with the latest unemployment rate at 2.8%, lower than the national average. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, thriving industries include manufacturing, financial, education and health services, government, and trade, transportation, and utilities.
2. Low Cost of Living and Affordable Housing
Compared to the national average, Montgomery offers a lower cost of living, saving you money on transportation, utilities, groceries, and housing. Relocating from a higher-cost area might surprise you with the amount of house you can afford here. Best Places shows that the median home price in the Montgomery metro area is $126,700, while a two-bedroom rental runs about $1,020 a month.
Housing in popular nearby areas, including Prattville, is more affordable than the national average, with median home costs of $226,600 and two-bedroom rentals around $1,100 per month. Other popular locations include Millbrook and Wetumpka. If you’re looking for proximity to Maxwell-Gunter, you’ll find that nearly all the suburbs are about a 30-minute drive to base.
U.S. News & World Report calls the Montgomery area one of the best places to retire in the U.S. due to its low cost of living and housing affordability.
If you're nearing retirement and wondering if Maxwell AFB is the right place to settle, a military retirement calculator such as the ones provided by the DoD or Military OneSource can help provide insights into your financial readiness, helping you make an informed decision.
Ready to house hunt? Take a look at MilitaryByOwner's updated inventory of Maxwell AFB homes for sale and houses for rent:
3. Outdoor Living near Maxwell AFB
The Deep South's humidity may take some getting used to for newcomers, but the long, warm seasons and abundant outdoor activities often win people over. You’ll find hiking, kayaking, biking, hunting, canoeing, boating, championship golf courses, and so many other recreational activities in the Alabama River Region.
Need ideas for outings? Try 13 Ideas for Family Fun Near Maxwell AFB, Alabama.
4. Montgomery's Southern Charm
We couldn’t mention Alabama without bringing up that sweet Southern charm. In the Maxwell AFB area, you’ll find city amenities served up with Southern hospitality. From comfort food and barbecue to the Montgomery Ballet and the Museum of Fine Arts, Montgomery has it all!
Explore important historical and cultural landmarks such as the Civil Rights Memorial, Dexter Avenue King Memorial Church and its Parsonage Museum where Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once lived, the Rosa Parks Memorial, and the Freedom Riders Museum. Montgomery's pivotal role in the Civil Rights Movement is renowned, offering days of exploration for significant sites.
After your explorations, you’ll want a bite to eat. See our list of 7 Restaurants to Try in Prattville, Alabama.
Have you settled near Maxwell AFB after military retirement? Let us know all the reasons why you love it there!
