"Andalusia has a rich vein of artistic expression that has been evident for many generations." - Mayor Earl Johnson
Deep in the South of Alabama, Andalusia has a rich history. The name comes from the Spanish language, and Andalusia dates back before Alabama was even admitted to the United States. Andrew Jackson once marched troops through Andalusia on what was known as the Three-Notch March, and his route is marked on current streets to this day. Inventor Jess Dixon, in 1940, built a helicopter car here! That is exactly what it sounds like, though there's no telling how well it worked. Always within 80 miles of a major metropolis, you'll never feel too far from centers of trade and commerce (we're talking about Pensacola, Montgomery and Mobile), though the town itself is a smaller enclave. The sub-tropical, humid climate may have you wanting to make the 85 mile drive to the Gulf of Mexico to take a dip every now and again though.
If you're planning to look for places for rent in Andalusia, you will have an easy time of it! The town and surrounding area contains many rentals and finding an apartment for rent shouldn't be a problem
"Andalusia has a rich vein of artistic expression that has been evident for many generations." - Mayor Earl Johnson
Deep in the South of Alabama, Andalusia has a rich history. The name comes from the Spanish language, and Andalusia dates back before Alabama was even admitted to the United States. Andrew Jackson once marched troops through Andalusia on what was known as the Three-Notch March, and his route is marked on current streets to this day. Inventor Jess Dixon, in 1940, built a helicopter car here! That is exactly what it sounds like, though there's no telling how well it worked. Always within 80 miles of a major metropolis, you'll never feel too far from centers of trade and commerce (we're talking about Pensacola, Montgomery and Mobile), though the town itself is a smaller enclave. The sub-tropical, humid climate may have you wanting to make the 85 mile drive to the Gulf of Mexico to take a dip every now and again though.
Moving to Andalusia
If you're planning to look for places for rent in Andalusia, you will have an easy time of it! The town and surrounding area contains many rentals and finding an apartment for rent shouldn't be a problem. Depending on the neighborhood and what type of place you're looking for, you'll want to begin your search as soon as eight weeks before your move. The real estate market in Andalusia is not expensive, so make sure you shop around. You may always find a better deal. It is a renter's market, so to speak, as there is a bulk of real estate in Andalusia that is available.
Apartment Community or House?
In downtown Andalusia, you may find a well-appointed apartment complex. While a furnished apartment is unlikely, many of them are very nice, sometimes recently renovated. If you're looking for a little more elbow room, you can get outside of the city, where green-lawned rental properties beckon. Whatever your speed, Andalusia has something for you!
What You Need
Andalusia is an inviting place to move, but a little research goes a long way in determining where you'd like to end up. Vacancy rates are higher than average here, so you shouldn't have too much trouble finding the kind of place you want, but it's always best to search high and low, to find the home for rent that's perfect for you! Landlords in Andalusia are typically thorough, so be prepared to show all the necessary documentation: a copy of your ID, your credit report, bank statements, pay stubs and references are often required. Many places are pet-friendly, though it is always helpful to bring any pertinent documentation. Some landlords will restrict certain breeds from their properties, and it's helpful to show that your precious pet won't be eating the neighbor children.
Neighborhoods
Andalusia has quite a lot to offer its residents, from its panoply of parks to plenty of restaurants. Check out the list below for an idea of what each neighborhood here has to offer.
City Center: Downtown Andalusia contains much of the architecture that we know and love about the south. Pillars and columns adorn many of the buildings, including many of the apartment complexes. Local businesses, including a yarn shop, reflect the southern charm evident in the city. With an apartment downtown, you will find yourself in the center of this vibrant community. A house for rent can be difficult to find here, though if you do, it is guaranteed to be beautiful!
River Falls: Find yourself in antebellum America in the River Falls neighborhood. The stately homes built on these rental properties evoke a time past. You should be prepared to pay a little more for these rentals, though the lifestyle they afford you will be worth every penny! And once you've moved in, get yourself a slice of pie at Hideaway Pizza.
Three Notch: This neighborhood, named for General Sherman's famous march through Andalusia, is home to many homes on sprawling lawns. This is a place where you will see people outside, enjoying all that southern Alabama has to offer. Try out the Three Notch Market each May, where dozens of local artists and musicians come together to celebrate the town's artistic expression. You can buy wares created by local artisans, or just wander around listening to music from the southern tradition, be it gospel, country, or jazz. Renting an apartment may be difficult here, as most of the available rentals are homes. But if you're prepared to pay a little more, this is one of the most popular neighborhoods in Andalusia!
Life in Andalusia
You can take a stroll through the beautifully manicured gardens of Kirkpatrick Park, enjoy a round on the links at Evans Barnes golf course, or catch freshwater fish at Lake Armstrong, be it from a boat or one of their docks. Andalusia's schools are in the top twenty-five in the state of Alabama, offering learning opportunities alongside top flight extracurricular activities. The system enrolls nearly 1700 students, making it a diverse and vibrant learning community.
The pace of life in Andalusia, like many places in the south, is slow and relaxed. Enjoy a cup of sweet tea, loaded to saturation with sugar -- as it should be, if you ask a local -- and relax in the shade of an oak tree in your backyard or in Andalusia's many parks. Take in a serene moment at the Veteran's Memorial, located behind City Hall. Or if you're interested in getting out for a little night time fun, have a plate from Hook's Barbecue and wash it down with a cold beer. If seafood is more your thing, check out David's Catfish House, which serves (you guessed it) fresh catfish!
If you really want to feed your inner night owl, take a trip to Mobile, where you can check out the blues bars and museums or walk the historic streets where many of the important events of the Civil Rights Movement took place. The Lower Alabama Arts Council is headquartered in Andalusia, where they sponsor frequent gallery shows, artist question-and-answer sessions, and even a children's summer art camp. This shows in the town's artistic expression. And why wouldn't an artist want to live there! The natural beauty that surrounds the town would be inspiring to anyone. Move to Andalusia and see why it is a hidden gem of the American south!
