Athens/Huntsville - Development

Limestone County, with Athens as its county seat, has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, solidifying its position as Alabama's fastest-growing county. Between 2020 and 2023, the county's population surged from 103,565 to approximately 114,654, reflecting a 3.4% growth rate. Athens itself has seen a significant population increase, reaching 32,636 in 2024, which marks a 26.95% rise since 2020. This rapid expansion is accompanied by substantial residential development. In 2022, the Limestone County Commission approved over 2,300 residential lots, and by early 2023, nearly 3,500 units were ready for construction, with an additional 1,928 lots receiving preliminary approval. The area has also attracted major industrial investments. Notably, Mazda Toyota Manufacturing established a significant presence, employing approximately 4,100 individuals. Other prominent employers include Polaris, with 2,600 employees, and the Tennessee Valley Authority's nuclear plant, which employs around 1,500. The combination of strategic location, a skilled workforce, and a business-friendly environment has made Athens and Limestone County a focal point for both residential and industrial growth in Alabama.