It was once known as the “Sock Capital of the World” due to our impressive hosiery industry where more than 7,000 residents were employed. While Fort Payne still has a hold on the sock industry, it also boasts a healthy industrial area with plants and distribution centers such as The Children’s Place, Playcore and Ferguson to name a few. The city is home to just over 14,000 citizens who enjoy smal
l-town life, a low cost of living, and easy access to recreation and larger cities. Families in Fort Payne enjoy a city school system that is ranked the 36th best school district in Alabama out of 136 by Niche.com. The low student-to-teacher ratio (18:1) also means teachers have more opportunities to work closely with their students. From the valley to Lookout Mountain, the City of Fort Payne boasts a backdrop of natural beauty. A mecca for parks and outdoor recreation, the city is surrounded by landmarks including Little River Canyon National Preserve, Lookout Mountain, DeSoto State Park, and Manitou Cave. Just a short drive away, you will find water recreation at Guntersville Lake, Weiss Lake, and the Coosa River. Fort Payne may best be known as being home to the sons of country music who make up the legendary band ALABAMA. The band’s museum and fan club hail from our city. Fort Payne also earned the distinction as one of the “100 Best Small Towns in America.”
