Life in Madison

The City of Madison, Alabama is a unique place to live and visit. A contradiction in many ways, with a growing population and close proximity to Huntsville, Alabama, it retains its quaintness in both appearance and attitude. It is home to excellent schools, library, and parks and is a great place to plant your roots, raise children, or start a business.

Madison was founded in 1856, after the railroad brought freight lines and business growth to what was then called “Madison Station.” Eventually, Madison incorporated in 1869 and Madison Station became Madison. Cotton production was a major industry until the 1960s. It was then that the space program ramped up on Redstone Arsenal and now, high-tech companies have replaced agriculture as leading industries in the city.

Situated amongst the rolling hills of the Tennessee Valley, Madison’s character is found in its family-friendliness, abundant trees, recreational opportunities, and superb schools. Its open space features hundreds of acres of parkland and greenways, a skate park, mini-golf course, pool, and a state-of-the-art YMCA, among other activity areas.

Historic downtown Madison is home to regularly-scheduled festivals and events and is a great place to connect with others or share fun family time.