Alabama State Maps
These maps show Alabama State's Counties, Cities, Federal Areas, Physiographic, and Ecoregions.
Alabama Counties Interesting Facts
Alabama’s 67 counties cover coastal plain to Appalachian foothills; Jefferson & Mobile are anchors.
- Number of counties: 67 — List
- First & last established: First Washington (1800); last Houston (1903) — Newberry Atlas
- Highest & lowest county: Highest at Cheaha ( Cleburne ); lowest sea level on Gulf (Baldwin) — USGS
- Most & least populated: Most: Jefferson; Least: Greene
- Least & most developed (proxy): Most: Jefferson; Least: Greene
- Most geographically diverse: Baldwin County (delta, bays, Gulf Coast)
- Strangest-shaped county: Mobile County (bay “claw” outline)
- State’s Biggest Commodity: Broilers. USDA NASS (2023)
- Largest Private Employer: Walmart (statewide). State list
- Top 3 Non-English Languages: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese — DataUSA
Alabama State County Sizes Map
Smallest County in Alabama State
Etowah County: 551 sq miles
Largest County in Alabama State
Baldwin County: 1657 sq miles
Mean and Median Area of Counties in Alabama State
Mean Area: 756 sq miles
Median Area: 610 sq miles
Major Cities of Alabama State and Their Locations
In Alabama, most major cities are strategically located near important transportation routes, rivers, and the Gulf Coast. Below are examples of each type:
1. Gulf Ports
Mobile: The largest port city, located on the Gulf of Mexico. Mobile is a key economic hub with a rich history as a center of trade and shipping.
2. River Ports
Montgomery: Situated on the Alabama River, Montgomery has a rich history and strategic significance for trade and transportation.
Topographic Tour of Alabama
Alabama is known for its diverse topography, ranging from coastal plains to the Appalachian foothills. Its terrain offers a variety of natural landscapes, from forests to rivers.
1. Coastal Plains
The southern region of Alabama features the coastal plains, characterized by flat, fertile land near the Gulf Coast. The region includes wetlands, estuaries, and rich farmlands.
2. Appalachian Mountains
The northern part of the state includes foothills and parts of the Appalachian Mountains, providing stunning views, hiking opportunities, and diverse ecosystems.
Physiographic Regions of Alabama
1. Appalachian Plateaus
The Appalachian Plateaus region in northern Alabama is characterized by rugged mountains and forests, offering diverse habitats and recreational opportunities.
2. Cumberland Plateau
The Cumberland Plateau features steep terrain and deep river valleys, with mixed forest cover and a cooler climate. It is home to significant biodiversity and recreational activities.
3. Coastal Plain
The Coastal Plain spans the southern part of the state and includes low-lying flatlands near the Gulf, supporting a variety of ecosystems and agricultural activities.
4. Piedmont Upland
The Piedmont Upland in eastern Alabama features rolling hills and forests, transitioning from the mountains to flatter terrain. It is an area rich in minerals and natural resources.
5. Valley and Ridge
The Valley and Ridge region includes parallel ridges and valleys in northeastern Alabama, shaped by the folding and faulting of rock layers, providing scenic views and outdoor opportunities.
Notable Federal Lands: Some of the Largest and Most Fascinating Destinations in Alabama
1. Talladega National Forest
Talladega National Forest covers the eastern part of the state, providing opportunities for hiking, camping, and wildlife observation.
2. Little River Canyon National Preserve
Located in northeastern Alabama, this preserve is home to a stunning canyon and offers excellent hiking, kayaking, and scenic drives.
Ecoregions of Alabama
1. Coastal Plains and Flatwoods, Lower Section
This ecoregion in southern Alabama features sandy soils, wetlands, and pine forests, supporting diverse wildlife and agriculture.
2. Coastal Plains, Middle Section
This section includes fertile lands and forests in the middle portion of the coastal plain, supporting a variety of plant and animal species, as well as agriculture.
3. Interior Low Plateau, Highland Rim Section
Located in central Alabama, this section is characterized by rolling hills and fertile soils, ideal for farming and forestry.
4. Northern Cumberland Plateau Section
This area features steep hills, dense forests, and limestone rock formations, providing rich habitats for wildlife and numerous recreational opportunities.
5. Southern Appalachian Piedmont Section
This section in northeastern Alabama is a rugged, forested region with diverse ecosystems, offering stunning views and outdoor activities.
6. Southern Cumberland Plateau Section
Characterized by deep valleys and steep ridges, this section offers scenic beauty and is known for its caves and rocky outcrops.
7. Southern Ridge and Valley Section
This ecoregion features long, parallel ridges and wide valleys, supporting both forest and agricultural lands, and providing picturesque landscapes.