Is Ozark Safe, Pros and cons of living in Ozark

Ozark, Alabama, offers a blend of Southern charm and modern convenience, making it an appealing place for many individuals and families. Situated in Dale County, this city provides a unique lifestyle with access to both natural beauty and community-focused living. Its location in the southeastern part of Alabama places it within reach of various recreational opportunities and a growing economic landscape.

The community is characterized by its friendly atmosphere and a commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing progress. Ozark’s strategic position allows residents to enjoy a peaceful environment without being too far from larger urban centers, offering a balanced living experience. This balance is a key factor for those considering a move to this part of Alabama.

Is it Safe to Live in Ozark?

Crime statistics in Ozark, Alabama, present a mixed picture, with specific data varying by the type of crime and the reporting year. Property crime has been a facet of crime statistics in Ozark (as reported by FBI crime data). Total crime and violent crime figures are also tracked, with specific rates available for different years (as reported by FBI crime data).

While specific current crime rate percentages are not detailed in the search results, the FBI’s Uniform Crime Reporting Program provides a framework for understanding crime trends nationally and at local levels. Information on hate crimes is also collected and reported for Ozark (as reported by FBI crime data).

Housing and Cost of Living

The housing market in Ozark, Alabama, shows a median property value of $143,500 (as reported by Data USA). The homeownership rate stands at 61.9% (as reported by Data USA), indicating a significant portion of residents own their homes. For those looking to rent, the average rent in Ozark, AL, is $950 per month (as reported by Zillow). This includes a range for houses from $550 to $1,800 (as reported by Zillow).

The cost of living in Ozark, Alabama, is generally considered affordable. The cost of living index is calculated based on expenses like food, transportation, healthcare, rent, utilities, and taxes (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute). Ozark, Alabama, ranks as the 5,417th most expensive city out of 6,010 cities in the US based on its cost of living index (as reported by ERI Economic Research Institute).

Rental Market Details

The rental market in Ozark, AL, features a variety of options, with an average rent of $950 per month (as reported by Zillow). Houses for rent typically fall within a range of $550 to $1,800 (as reported by Zillow). Currently, there are approximately 23 rentals available in Ozark, AL (as reported by Zillow).

The monthly change in rent was -$25, and the year-over-year change was also -$25 (as reported by Zillow). This indicates a stable to slightly decreasing trend in rental prices over the past year.

Home Prices and Trends

Home prices in Ozark, Alabama, have seen some fluctuations. In March 2026, home prices were down 4.4% compared to the previous year, with a median sale price of $164,000 (as reported by Redfin). The median sale price per square foot was $123, down 4.3% from the prior year (as reported by Redfin).

Homes in Ozark, AL, are currently selling after an average of 101 days on the market, which is longer than the 50 days it took on average the previous year (as reported by Redfin). In March of the current year, 16 homes were sold, a slight increase from the 16 homes sold in March of the prior year (as reported by Redfin).

Job Market and Economy

Ozark, Alabama, has a median household income of $48,944 (as reported by World Population Review). The poverty rate in Ozark is 28.06% (as reported by World Population Review), which is a significant consideration for the local economy.

The city’s economy is supported by various sectors, with major employers contributing to job availability. The Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce serves as a resource for connecting businesses and fostering economic growth within the community. Information on specific major employers can be found through local business directories and the Chamber of Commerce (as reported by Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce).

Employment Statistics

While specific unemployment rate data for Ozark, AL, is not directly available in the provided search snippets, the Bureau of Labor Statistics tracks unemployment data for states and metropolitan areas. Alabama’s unemployment rate was 2.7% in March 2026 (as reported by Bureau of Labor Statistics), indicating a generally low unemployment level statewide.

The average commute time for residents in Ozark, AL, is 22.5 minutes, with an average of 2 cars per household (as reported by Data USA). Most residents drive alone to work (as reported by Data USA).

Climate and Weather

Ozark, Alabama, experiences a climate characterized by long, hot, and oppressive summers, short and cold winters, and rainfall throughout the year. The average daily high temperature typically ranges from 41°F to 91°F, rarely falling below 27°F or exceeding 96°F (as reported by U.S. Climate Data).

The hot season extends from mid-May to late September, with July being the hottest month, averaging a high of 91°F and a low of 73°F (as reported by U.S. Climate Data). The cooler season lasts from late November to late February, with January being the coldest month, having an average low of 41°F and a high of 60°F (as reported by U.S. Climate Data).

Rainfall Patterns

Rainfall is consistent throughout the year in Ozark, Alabama. The wettest month is typically March, with an average of 5.2 inches of rain, while October is the driest month, receiving an average of 2.8 inches (as reported by U.S. Climate Data).

A “wet day” is defined as a day with at least 0.04 inches of precipitation. The likelihood of a wet day varies across the year, with a wetter season generally occurring from late May to early September (as reported by U.S. Climate Data).

Education and Demographics

Ozark City Schools serves the educational needs of the community, receiving an overall Niche grade of B (as reported by Niche). The district has a student-teacher ratio of 16 to 1, with 2,029 students in grades PK-12 (as reported by Niche).

According to state test scores, 23% of students are proficient in math and 39% are proficient in reading (as reported by Niche). Ozark City Schools is ranked #34 out of 143 for diversity among school districts in Alabama (as reported by Niche).

Population and Diversity

Ozark, Alabama, has an estimated population of 14,327 as of the most recent census data (as reported by Census Dots). The population is composed of approximately 56.7% White, 32.3% Black or African American, and smaller percentages of Hispanic, Multiracial, Asian, and Native American/Other residents (as reported by Census Dots).

The median age in Ozark is 43.1 years (as reported by World Population Review). For every 100 females, there are 92.1 males (as reported by World Population Review). The city is considered more racially diverse than Alabama overall (as reported by Census Dots).