Foley has secured its spot as one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States, ranking 10th in the nation, according to the U-Haul Growth Index.

The study, which examines one-way customer moves over the past year, highlights Foley’s impressive growth, making it the highest-ranked city in Alabama.

Auburn and Huntsville followed Foley on the list, placing 12th and 14th, respectively, while no other Alabama cities cracked the Top 25. Foley's estimated population has surged from 20,335 in the 2020 census to approximately 26,500, highlighting the city’s rapid expansion.

The U-Haul data revealed that 53.1% of its traffic into Foley involved arrivals, compared to 46.9% departures. Arrivals rose by 5% in 2024, while departures saw a 2% decline, reflecting the city’s growing appeal.

Chad Rome, president of U-Haul Company of Southern Alabama, attributed the growth to Foley's affordability and attractive lifestyle.

“The biggest factors bringing people to Foley are the cost of living and general affordability of Foley. You have all the same activities as other places but with significantly lower costs,” Rome said. “You have great beaches nearby in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores. Foley has a good public school system, which is a big draw for families. It also tends to be a second-home community. There are a lot of Airbnb rentals, and real estate is available for people to get a second home.”

Rome also noted that other Baldwin County cities, including Fairhope and Daphne, have experienced significant growth, but Foley’s unique mix of affordability, amenities and proximity to Gulf Coast attractions has made it a standout destination.

The U-Haul Growth Index, compiled from more than 2.5 million one-way truck, trailer, and U-Box portable moving container transactions across the U.S. and Canada, serves as a key indicator of population trends.

Nationally, Ocala, Florida, claimed the top spot in the study, with five Florida cities ranking in the Top 25. Other states with strong showings included Tennessee and Washington, which each had three cities on the list. Two Virginia cities made the top five.

In addition to cities, U-Haul also ranked metro areas for growth. Dallas, Texas, emerged as the fastest-growing metropolitan area in the nation.

Foley’s growth signals a broader trend in Baldwin County, as the area continues to attract new residents seeking affordability, family-friendly communities and proximity to world-class beaches.