Congratulations on your new job! Moving to Auburn or Opelika is an exciting opportunity for a fresh start in two of Alabama’s most vibrant and growing communities. Whether you’re relocating to work at Auburn University, a nearby tech company, or another local business, you’ll find that Auburn and Opelika offer a unique blend of Southern charm, modern amenities, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hi, I’m Rozi Dover, your local real estate expert, and I’ve helped many professionals relocate to Auburn and Opelika for work. In this blog, I’ll share key insights to help you navigate the move, from choosing the right neighborhood to settling into your new home.
1. Research Auburn and Opelika Neighborhoods
Finding the perfect place to live is an essential part of your relocation. Auburn and Opelika both offer a variety of neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and amenities. Whether you’re looking for a friendly community, a trendy urban setting, or a peaceful suburban retreat, there’s something for everyone.
Popular neighborhoods in Auburn:
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Downtown Auburn: If you love being close to restaurants, shops, and the lively atmosphere of Auburn University, downtown Auburn might be the perfect spot for you. You’ll have easy access to campus events, nightlife, and more.
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Moores Mill: For those seeking a more upscale, suburban feel, Moores Mill offers beautiful homes, a country club, and golf course. It’s ideal for families and professionals looking for luxury living with easy access to downtown.
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Cary Woods: Known for its historic homes and tree-lined streets, Cary Woods is a charming neighborhood close to Auburn University.
Popular neighborhoods in Opelika:
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Historic Downtown Opelika: If you love history and want to live in a walkable area with boutiques, cafes, and entertainment, downtown Opelika is a great choice. The historic district is known for its beautifully restored homes and thriving arts scene.
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Grand National: Located near the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Grand National offers resort-style living with a focus on outdoor recreation. This neighborhood is perfect for golf enthusiasts and those who enjoy nature.
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Northside: For families, Northside Opelika offers spacious homes, top-rated schools, and proximity to parks and shopping centers. It’s a growing area with plenty of amenities.
2. Understand the Cost of Living
Auburn and Opelika are known for their affordability, especially when compared to larger metropolitan areas. However, it’s still important to understand the local cost of living and how it will impact your budget when moving for a new job.
Housing costs:
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Renting: Average rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Auburn is around $1,200 to $1,500 per month, while rent in Opelika tends to be slightly lower. Renting may be a great option if you’re looking to settle in before committing to buying a home.
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Buying: The median home price in Auburn is around $350,000, while Opelika offers more affordable options with a median price of approximately $275,000. Both cities provide a variety of housing options, from condos and townhomes to single-family homes.
Other expenses:
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Utilities: Alabama’s utility costs, including electricity, water, and internet, tend to be below the national average. Depending on the property, expect to pay around $150 to $250 per month for basic utilities.
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Groceries and dining: Both Auburn and Opelika have a wide range of grocery stores, including local farmers’ markets, and restaurants to fit all budgets. Dining out can range from casual barbecue spots to upscale dining options.
3. Explore Local Schools and Education Options
If you’re moving with children, researching local schools will be a top priority. Both Auburn and Opelika have highly rated public schools, as well as several private and charter school options.
Top public schools in the area:
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Auburn City Schools: Known for its strong academic programs, Auburn City Schools is one of the top-rated school districts in Alabama. Auburn High School consistently ranks among the best in the state.
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Opelika City Schools: Opelika’s public schools are highly regarded for their focus on community involvement, academic achievement, and extracurricular activities.
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Auburn University: If you’re interested in continuing your education or looking for job opportunities in academia, Auburn University is a renowned institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
In addition to public schools, there are private school options like Lee-Scott Academy and Auburn Classical Academy, which offer alternative educational environments for families seeking specialized programs.
4. Commuting and Getting Around
Fortunately, both Auburn and Opelika are relatively small cities with minimal traffic compared to larger metro areas. Whether you’ll be commuting to work or exploring the area on weekends, getting around is generally easy.
What to know about commuting:
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Work commute: Most residents have short commutes, averaging around 15 to 20 minutes. Both cities are connected by major highways, making it convenient for those who need to travel between Auburn, Opelika, and nearby cities.
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Public transportation: Auburn offers the Tiger Transit system, which provides free bus services around the city and Auburn University. Opelika also has public transportation options, though most residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting.
If you’re moving to the area for work, it’s important to consider where your job is located and how far you’re willing to commute.
5. Discover Things to Do and Local Attractions
One of the best parts of moving to Auburn or Opelika is the variety of local activities and attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover, sports enthusiast, or someone who enjoys the arts, there’s always something to do.
Outdoor recreation:
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Chewacla State Park: Just outside Auburn, this park offers hiking trails, camping, fishing, and swimming. It’s a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts.
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Golf courses: The Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National in Opelika is a must for golf lovers. The course is renowned for its challenging layout and beautiful scenery.
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Auburn University Arboretum: A peaceful retreat on the Auburn University campus, the arboretum offers walking trails, native plants, and a chance to relax in nature.
Sports and entertainment:
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Auburn Tigers football: If you’re a sports fan, you’ll love the energy that surrounds Auburn University’s football season. Jordan-Hare Stadium is the place to be on game day.
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Downtown Opelika: Enjoy a night out in downtown Opelika, where you’ll find local breweries, art galleries, and live music venues.
6. Connect with the Community
Auburn and Opelika are known for their welcoming and close-knit communities. Whether you’re looking to meet new people through work, local events, or neighborhood activities, you’ll quickly find that the locals are friendly and eager to make you feel at home.
Ways to get involved:
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Join local clubs or organizations: Both cities offer a variety of social and professional clubs where you can meet like-minded individuals.
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Volunteer opportunities: Auburn and Opelika have a strong tradition of volunteerism, with many local non-profits and community service groups offering ways to give back.
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Attend local events: From food festivals to live music performances, both cities have active social calendars filled with events that are perfect for meeting people and exploring the local culture.
Ready to Make Your Move to Auburn or Opelika?
Moving for a new job is an exciting opportunity, and I’m here to help make your transition as smooth as possible. Whether you need help finding a home or want advice on the best neighborhoods to settle in, feel free to reach out to me for further assistance. Auburn and Opelika are wonderful places to live and work, and I’d love to help you find the perfect home here.
Rozi Dover
Your Trusted Real Estate Expert in Auburn and Opelika, Alabama
Phone: +13346630077
Email: rozi@mindspring.com
Website: www.auburn-opelikahomes.com
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