Madison County has secured a spot among the best places to live in the nation, ranking seventh out of 2,764 counties in Niche’s 2025 list of “Best Counties to Live in America.” The county also claimed the top ranking within Alabama.

Niche’s rankings are based on a comprehensive analysis of factors such as quality of local schools, cost of living, job opportunities and access to amenities. These insights are drawn from sources including the U.S Census Bureau, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and other sources.

“Madison County continues to stand out as a place where people can thrive,” said Chairman Mac McCutcheon. “This recognition reflects the growth of our community and the quality-of-life amenities that set us apart.”

With a population of nearly 400,000 and a median household income of $83,528, the county offers a strong economic foundation and abundant community life. In addition to its top ranking for livability, Stacker also named Madison County the number one best county to raise a family in Alabama, based on Niche’s 2025 rankings.