Livability

Recreation

With 555 square miles of mountains, valleys, forests, rivers and lakes, Etowah County is one of the most diverse areas for outdoor sports and recreation in the southeast. Whether it's a trophy buck or largemouth bass, chances are you'll find it here. Or you can hike, bike, ATV or horseback ride through scenic trails, as well as sail, jet-ski or canoe on a river or lake.

Cultural Amenities

The Gadsden Symphony Orchestra is funded by grants, ticket sales, patrons and supporters.  It schedules three concerts per season: one with a patriotic theme; the second a formal, classical program; and the third a fun, “pops” theme.

Housing

Homes for sale

On average, there are 600-700 homes for sale in Etowah County at any time.  The cost of living is 81.3 (the national average is 100.0) and housing prices are among the most affordable in the nation. To view current listings, visit these sites:

Climate

Information and statistics on the climate conditions of Etowah County.

 

Health care

Gadsden Regional Medical Center (www.gadsdenregional.com) and Riverview Regional Medical Center (www.riverviewregional.com) have a combined 627 beds.  Both are accredited by JCAHO.

Public Safety

Police Protection

The Etowah County Sheriff’s Department has 62 employees in its criminal, civil, corrections, patrol, court house security and narcotics divisions. The City of Gadsden Police Department has 100 personnel in the following divisions: patrol, hit and run, crime against property, crime against persons, fugitive, juvenile, vice and narcotics, canine, crime prevention, school guards, animal control, field training, records and communications. Surrounding municipalities have police departments of varying sizes.  The violent crime rate is 479.2 per 100,000 inhabitants.

Shopping

Downtown Gadsden is a thriving retail, business, and entertainment district.  Downtown Gadsden, Inc. was created to establish the central business district as a centerpiece for the city’s economic progress.  During 2009-2014, the number of businesses downtown increased by 58, and includes such specialty shops as Frios Gourmet Pops, Old Havana Cigar Bar, King’s Olive Oil Company and Maggie’s Gluten Free Bakery.  Today, the occupancy rate exceeds 90%. 

Religion

A list of major faiths & denominations with churches or synagogues in Etowah County.

Community Organizations

A list of numerous special-interest groups in Etowah County.

Communications

Newspapers

The Gadsden Times (daily)
www.gadsdentimes.com