Homes for Sale in Gurley, Alabama; Your Complete 2025 Guide

Looking for homes for sale with real potential? Gurley, Alabama, offers a serene backdrop to build a life while keeping you close to Huntsville’s economic engine. In this 2025 guide, you’ll learn about Gurley’s history, houses for sale, schools, job scene, outdoor life, and real estate tips.

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Where Is Gurley and Why It Matters

Gurley is a town of just under 900 people in eastern Madison County, about 16 miles east of downtown Huntsville. Gurley offers peaceful mountain living with quick access to Huntsville. It's great for families, retirees, and remote workers. Though it feels rural, it’s part of the thriving Huntsville-Decatur metro area.

A Rich History That Shapes Community

Founded in the 1830s by John Gurley, the town developed around a railroad water stop in 1857. Gurley became an official town in 1891, thriving on cedar, barrel, pencil, and bucket production. Its historic center features vintage Craftsman and Victorian homes for sale, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places. These homes reflect the town’s deep roots, strong pride, and classic architectural charm that continue to attract new residents.

Demographic Snapshot

Gurley’s estimated population of 856 residents has grown gradually (0.35% annually). The demographic breakdown is roughly 83% White, 7% Black, and 10% other or mixed. Households tend to be mid-age (42 median) with a median income of around $74,300; this mix results in multigenerational family ties, local church networks, and a homey atmosphere.

Read: Capitalization Rate

Gurley, Alabama Homes for Sale, Housing Market & What to Expect

A market in balance

• Median sold price hovers around $335,000, though recent luxury sales reached $600,000+
• A large home was reported sold at $554,900 in early 2025
• Small, older homes for sale are often listed for $120,000–$260,000 in the historic town center
• Average time on market: 52 days, but new construction may sell within 3–4 weeks

Homes for sale types permit choice

• Historic bungalows and ranches (2–3 bedrooms, older footprint)
• New construction subdivisions (Craftsman-style homes for sale on modern lots)
• Estate-style homes for sale on acreage (quiet privacy and rural charm)
• Custom builds on raw lots around town

Overall, Gurley offers more bang for your buck than nearby Madison/ Huntsville without sacrificing quality.

Read on: Foreclosure

Neighborhoods & Subdivisions

Most lots exceed 0.3–2 acres, allowing room for gardening, recreation, and creative uses. Historic zones offer smaller lots with easy access to shops, schools, and churches.

Read: North Alabama's booming neighbourhoods

Local Schools & Education

Gurley belongs to Madison County Schools:

• Madison County Elementary (K-8) supports most local children 
• Madison County High School, grades 9–12, 460 students 
• Graduation rates around 95%, strong athletics program

Nearby Randolph School, Huntsville private schools, and the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) offer additional choices. Families appreciate high academic quality, small class sizes, and supportive communities.

Commuting & Transportation

• Main routes: U.S. Route 72 to Huntsville (16 min) and Interstate access (10 miles west)
• Commuters average 23 minutes to Huntsville; most drive solo, while 12% carpool, and 4% work from home
• Limited transit: Madison County TRAM offers weekday rideshare service

A standard Gurley commute is manageable; cows seen grazing outside your window are not uncommon.

Also read: Rent increase notice

Employment & Telework

Local jobs are limited; 40% of the residents work in education, healthcare, and public administration. Huntsville-area employers include:

• Redstone Arsenal military/defense
• Research Park Boeing, Dynetics, Raytheon
• University & biotech firms-UAH, HudsonAlpha
• Mazda-Toyota (plant 30 min southeast)

A growing number of residents work remotely or run small businesses out of home labs or studios. Gigabit internet is becoming available in new subdivisions.

Recreation and Local Life

Gurley is all about outdoor spaces:

• Charles Stone Park: trails, playground, community events
• Kayaking, fishing, and hiking at Cathedral Caverns State Park (16 mi)
• Lost Sink Trail: beautiful farmland and wildlife
• Annual 4th of July picnic, church yard sales, My Brothers Coffee meetup

Seasonal gatherings promote bonding and preserve the village feel.

Read: Things to consider when choosing a leasing-only service in North Alabama

Healthcare & Wellness

• Mad City Urgent Care (10 min) provides quick care for minor emergencies
• Madison Hospital offers a full emergency room (ER) and inpatient care in nearby Madison (20 min)
• Specialists and dentists are within a 20–30 minute drive

Expect an ongoing integration of local care providers as the community expands.

Shopping and Dining

Gurley offers small-town essentials:

• Gurley Café & Grill: local favorites for breakfast & lunch
• Pat’s Cleaners, two auto mechanics, and a Dollar General
• Madison provides Publix, Harris Teeter, Starbucks, and golf courses (15 min)
• Huntsville’s Bridge Street Town Centre: boutiques, theatre, major chains (25 min)

You get local convenience and big-city choice within easy reach.

Faith, Civic Life & Culture

Gurley is anchored by:

• Gurley Baptist, Gurley Methodist, New Friendship Baptist
• American Legion and Lions Club sponsor community events
• Fire & Police Departments staffed by residents

Weekly and seasonal gatherings build cohesion, strengthened by village pageantry.

Read on: Insurance for apartment owners

Weekend Getaways and Natural Spaces in Gurley

Gurley, Alabama, is known for its natural spaces and weekend getaways listed below:

• Walls of Jericho (Back Door Trail for waterfalls, 30 min)
• Monte Sano State Park, including mountain biking and hiking (20 min)
• Cathedral Caverns offers caving, lodging, and year-round programming
• Lake Guntersville offers boating and fishing (45 min)

Outdoor lovers have easy access to birdwatching, biking, and family adventures in all seasons.

Cost of Living Breakdown in Gurley, Alabama

You get lower taxes and housing costs. Residents enjoy savings and real quality-of-life gains.

Investing in Gurley Real Estate

Benefits

• High demand for $150K–$300K homes for rentals, flips, and long-term hold
• Strong year-over-year price gains (11.1% in 2023)
• Low entry cost, stable appreciation potential
• An untapped market of remote/hybrid workers seeking smaller-town living

Risks & Considerations

• Smaller size limits economic diversity
• Long-term growth tied to Huntsville region health
• Less downtown commercial demand keeps business involvement cautious

Moving Guide & Timeline

3–6 Months Prior

• Explore online listings, history of homes for sale
• Reach out to local agents (e.g., Keller Williams, RealtySouth)

2 Months Prior

• Tour neighborhoods (day and night)
• Pre-approval for financing

1 Month Prior

• Contract review, finalize closing
• Set up utilities, internet

Move-in Week

• Transfer mail, register a vehicle, and join Facebook community groups

1–2 Months Post-Move

• Volunteer at a park event or a city meeting
• Meet neighbors at Charles Stone Park

What Lies Ahead for Gurley, Alabama?

The future growth for Gurley Alabama will be cautious and thoughtful:

• Possible new schools or expansions
• More custom-built homes for sale and services
• Enhanced broadband coverage for hybrid work
• Continued community events and volunteer-driven development

As Huntsville grows, Gurley benefits without losing its small-town charm.

Final Take: Who Should Live in Gurley, Alabama?

Gurley Alabama is suitable for those seeking:

• Heritage charm or modern craft designs
• Relative affordability in an improving housing market
• Small-town living with big-city reach
• Affordable homes for sale
• Families need strong schools and a friendly pace
• Investors seeking rental opportunities in Redstone-influenced change zones

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 Ready to Explore Life in Gurley?

Whether you're searching for a home for sale, planning your retirement, or looking for the next great investment opportunity, Gurley, Alabama, offers the perfect blend of charm, community, and convenience.

 📩 Need help managing your rental? Ask about our Gurley property management services

Let’s find your perfect home—and protect your investment from day one.

FAQs Homes for Sale in Gurley, Alabama

1. Is Gurley, Alabama, growing quickly?
 Gurley, Alabama, is expanding at a slow and steady pace compared to nearby Huntsville. The town focuses on preserving its rural charm and peaceful environment. Growth is controlled, avoiding the issues that come with rapid sprawl. This steady expansion makes Gurley real estate appealing to families and retirees seeking stability.

2. Can you find work in Gurley, Alabama?
 Job opportunities directly in Gurley are limited, so many residents commute to Huntsville for work. Popular fields include healthcare, education, engineering, and technology. Remote work has also become more common as internet services improve. Gurley offers a quiet home base with quick access to Huntsville’s thriving job market.

3. Is there any public transportation in Gurley, Alabama?
 Public transportation options in Gurley are minimal. TRAM runs on weekdays, but the routes are few and far between. As a result, most residents heavily rely on personal cars. A vehicle is almost necessary for commuting, errands, and daily life in Gurley.

4. Is groundwater or flooding a concern in Gurley, Alabama?
 Flooding risks in Gurley are generally low because many homes sit on hillsides. Elevated land and natural drainage help reduce water issues. While heavy rains may cause minor drainage problems, severe flooding is rare. This makes Gurley real estate safer than lowland areas prone to water damage.

5. How are the schools in Gurley, Alabama?
 Schools in Gurley fall under Madison County Schools, which are well-rated and respected. Families appreciate the smaller class sizes and strong community involvement. Students often benefit from a more personal learning environment compared to larger districts. This quality of education adds to Gurley’s family-friendly appeal.

6. What is the cost of living in Gurley, Alabama?
 The cost of living in Gurley is lower than in larger Alabama cities. Housing is more affordable compared to Huntsville, making it attractive for buyers. Utilities, groceries, and transportation costs are also moderate. This affordability draws renters and homeowners looking for value and comfort.

7. Is Gurley, Alabama, a safe place to live?
 Gurley is considered a safe town with lower crime rates than nearby urban centers. Residents enjoy a peaceful, family-friendly community. Neighborhoods are quiet, and people often know their neighbors well. Safety is one of the top reasons families choose Gurley for long-term living.

8. What is the housing market like in Gurley, Alabama?
 The housing market in Gurley is growing steadily but remains relatively small. Buyers can find single-family homes, new constructions, and rural properties. Property values are rising gradually, showing stable long-term growth. Investors and families see Gurley real estate as a smart opportunity.

9. How far is Gurley, Alabama, from Huntsville?
 Gurley is about 15 to 20 minutes from Huntsville by car. This short commute makes it convenient for those working in the city. Residents get the benefit of small-town living while staying close to Huntsville’s amenities. The location makes Gurley especially attractive to commuters and families.

10. Are there recreational activities in Gurley, Alabama?
 Yes, Gurley offers many outdoor activities for residents and visitors. Hiking, fishing, and camping are popular thanks to the nearby mountains. Parks and trails provide plenty of opportunities for family outings. Nature lovers enjoy Gurley for its peaceful and active lifestyle.