Market Highlights
Also known as Coastal Alabama, Mobile and Baldwin County are two adjacent yet distinct MSA’s that contribute to the state’s economy in significant ways. Mobile is well-known for its ideal transportation infrastructure, driving the Aerospace, Chemical, Metals, Distribution & Logistics, and Maritime industries. The Port of Mobile is the 9th-largest port in the United States with an economic impact of $85 billion. Mobile has 5 Class 1 railroads and connects to two interstates (I-10 & I-65). The Mobile Airport Authority operates 4 transportation hubs, including the Mobile Regional Airport, Mobile International Airport, Mobile Aeroplex, and St. Elmo Airport. Mobile County’s largest university is the University of South Alabama, contributing close to 14,000 of the county’s 17,000+ 4-year college & university enrollment.
Directly to the east of Mobile County, Baldwin County is characterized by its rapid job and population growth. 4 of the Top 10 fastest-growing cities in Alabama are in Baldwin County (Foley – #2, Daphne – #5, Gulf Shores – #7, Fairhope – #10), and Baldwin County is the 12th-fastest growing metro in the nation. Baldwin County has appeared on recent lists by Forbes and Emsi for being among the top places for business, careers, and talent attraction.
The Mobile County & Baldwin County school systems are among the area’s largest employers, and other notable employers include Infirmary Health, University of South Alabama, Austal USA, and Airbus Alabama. The apartment market consists of 225 properties and over 35,000 units.
