East Alabama Communities Near Auburn & Opelika
East Alabama offers a diverse collection of communities that provide easy access to Auburn and Opelika while offering their own distinct lifestyles, price points, and pace of life. From riverfront living to quiet rural neighborhoods, these surrounding towns give buyers and relocating families more options when deciding where to call home.
Many people exploring Auburn and Opelika also find that nearby East Alabama communities offer additional flexibility, whether that’s a shorter commute to Columbus, Georgia, more space for the price, or a quieter setting just outside the city.
Why Consider East Alabama Communities
Communities throughout Lee and Russell counties appeal to buyers looking for a balance between convenience and lifestyle. These areas often attract:
- Buyers seeking more home for their budget
- Those commuting to Columbus, Fort Moore (formerly Fort Benning), Auburn, or Opelika
- Residents who prefer a slower pace with easy city access
- Families looking for established neighborhoods or larger lots
East Alabama communities offer a mix of suburban, rural, and small-town environments, all within reach of major employers, universities, and regional amenities.
Phenix City, Alabama
Located along the Chattahoochee River and just across the state line from Columbus, Georgia, Phenix City is one of the largest communities in East Alabama. Its proximity to Fort Moore and downtown Columbus makes it a popular choice for military families, commuters, and investors.
Phenix City offers a range of housing options, from established neighborhoods to new construction, along with riverfront recreation, parks, and growing local development. Residents enjoy access to nearby dining, entertainment, and employment centers while maintaining a more residential feel.
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Smiths Station, Alabama
Smiths Station is known for its quieter, residential atmosphere and strong sense of community. Located north of Phenix City and within driving distance of Auburn, Opelika, and Columbus, it appeals to buyers who want space, privacy, and a more rural-suburban lifestyle.
Many homes in Smiths Station sit on larger lots, and the area is often chosen by families and buyers who prefer a slower pace while still remaining connected to nearby cities.
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Nearby East Alabama Communities
Beyond Phenix City and Smiths Station, East Alabama includes several smaller communities that offer unique living environments. Areas such as Salem, Beauregard, Crawford, Waverly, Notasulga & Loachapoka provide a more rural setting while remaining accessible to Auburn, Opelika, and Columbus.
These communities are often ideal for buyers seeking:
- Acreage or farmland
- Custom or older homes
- Quiet surroundings
- Lower density neighborhoods
Each town has its own character, and understanding the differences can help buyers find the right fit.
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How East Alabama Compares to Auburn & Opelika
While Auburn and Opelika offer walkable downtowns, university-driven culture, and higher-density development, East Alabama communities provide alternatives that focus on space, affordability, and commuting flexibility.
Many buyers find that East Alabama communities complement Auburn and Opelika rather than compete with them — offering options for different stages of life, investment goals, and lifestyle preferences.
If you’re deciding between living in town or just outside the city, understanding these regional differences is key.
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Find the Right Community for You
Choosing where to live is about more than a map, it’s about lifestyle, priorities, and long-term goals. Whether you’re relocating for work, military service, education, or a new chapter, understanding East Alabama’s communities helps you make an informed decision.
Our team works with buyers across Auburn, Opelika, and the surrounding East Alabama region and can help you compare neighborhoods, property types, and market trends.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Relocating to Auburn & Opelika
East Alabama communities near Auburn and Opelika include Phenix City, Smiths Station, and several smaller towns such as Salem, Beauregard, Waverly, Crawford, and Seale. These areas offer a range of lifestyles, from riverfront and suburban living to rural acreage, all within driving distance of Auburn and Opelika.
Yes. Phenix City is a popular choice for people working in Columbus, Georgia or at Fort Moore due to its close proximity, established neighborhoods, and access to riverfront recreation, shopping, and dining.
Smiths Station offers a quieter, more residential setting compared to Auburn or Opelika. Many homes feature larger lots and a slower pace of life while still providing convenient access to nearby cities for work, shopping, and entertainment.
In many cases, yes. Buyers often find that East Alabama communities offer more space or lower price points compared to homes located directly in Auburn or Opelika, making them appealing for families, retirees, and investors.
Absolutely. Choosing the right community depends on lifestyle, commute needs, and long-term goals. Our team helps buyers compare neighborhoods, property types, and market conditions across Auburn, Opelika, and the surrounding East Alabama region.
The property information herein is derived from various sources that may include, but not be limited to, county records and the Multiple Listing Service, and it may include approximations. Although the information is believed to be accurate, it is not warranted and you should not rely upon it without personal verification.2022 Coldwell Banker. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker logos are trademarks of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. The Coldwell Banker® System is comprised of company owned offices which are owned by a subsidiary of Anywhere Advisors LLC and franchised offices which are independently owned and operated. The Coldwell Banker System fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act.
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