Let the numbers do the talking.
Decatur, AL vs Northport, AL
Decatur, AL vs Northport, AL: What the data shows
Decatur, AL is in Decatur, AL while Northport, AL is in Northport, AL — both in the same state. On home prices, Northport, AL is the more affordable option at $178,200 median — $21,800 less than Decatur, AL's $200,000. WYLT rates Decatur, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing — and Northport, AL as “Think twice” — a neighborhood that warrants careful research before committing.
Both neighborhoods have similar safety profiles. Decatur, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. Northport, AL has Moderate violent crime and Moderate property crime. On environmental risk, Decatur, AL has Low flood risk and Northport, AL has High flood risk.
For families weighing school quality, Decatur, AL has the higher school rating — Decatur, AL rates 8/10 and Northport, AL rates 7.2/10.
| Category | Decatur, AL | Northport, AL |
|---|---|---|
| Housing | ||
| Verdict | Think twice | Think twice |
| Median Price | $200K | $178K ✓ Lower price |
| Median Rent | $1K | $920 ✓ Lower rent |
| Median Income | $45K | $60K ✓ Higher income |
| Price Volatility | Moderate | Moderate |
| Getting Around | ||
| Walk Score | Car-dependent | Car-dependent |
| Transit Score | 3/100 ✓ Better transit | Minimal transit |
| Bike Score | 1/100 ✓ More bikeable | N/A |
| Commute | 45 min | 20 min ✓ Shorter commute |
| Safety & Environment | ||
| Safety Grade | D+ | D+ |
| Violent Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Property Crime | Moderate | Moderate |
| Flood Risk | Low ✓ Lower risk | High |
| Air Quality | Moderate | Moderate |
| Community | ||
| Schools | 8/10 ✓ Better schools | 7.2/10 |
| Best for | familiescommuters to Birminghamaffordable home buyers | Families with kidsFirst‑time home buyersRenters on a tight budget |
Bottom line
Decatur is a slightly better option for those prioritizing school quality, with a higher rated school system, but its longer commute to Birmingham may be a drawback. Northport, on the other hand, offers a shorter commute to Tuscaloosa and a lower median home price, making it a more affordable choice for families and first-time home buyers who don't mind car dependence. Ultimately, Decatur's better schools and Northport's lower cost and shorter commute make each neighborhood suited to different priorities.
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