Livability
Recreation
With 555 square miles of mountains, valleys, forests, rivers and lakes, Etowah County is one of the most diverse areas for outdoor sports and recreation in the southeast. Whether it's a trophy buck or largemouth bass, chances are you'll find it here. Or you can hike, bike, ATV or horseback ride through scenic trails, as well as sail, jet-ski or canoe on a river or lake.
Cultural Amenities
The Gadsden Symphony Orchestra is funded by grants, ticket sales, patrons and supporters. It schedules three concerts per season: one with a patriotic theme; the second a formal, classical program; and the third a fun, “pops” theme.
Housing
Homes for sale
On average, there are 600-700 homes for sale in Etowah County at any time. Prices are among the most affordable in the nation. To view current listings, visit these sites:
Climate
Information and statistics on the climate conditions of Etowah County.
Health care
Gadsden Regional Medical Center (www.gadsdenregional.com) and Riverview Regional Medical Center (www.riverviewregional.com) have a combined 627 beds. Both are accredited by JCAHO.
Public Safety
Police Protection
The Etowah County Sheriff’s Department has 62 employees in its criminal, civil, corrections, patrol, court house security and narcotics divisions. The City of Gadsden Police Department has 100 personnel in the following divisions: patrol, hit and run, crime against property, crime against persons, fugitive, juvenile, vice and narcotics, canine, crime prevention, school guards, animal control, field training, records and communications. Surrounding municipalities have police departments of varying sizes. The violent crime rate is 479.2 per 100,000 inhabitants.
Shopping
Downtown Gadsden is a thriving retail and business district. Downtown Gadsden, Inc. was created to establish the central business district as a centerpiece for the city’s economic progress. Since then, 95 new businesses have opened and 398 building improvements have been completed. The new private-sector investment exceeds $26 million, stimulated by a public investment of more than $5.5 million. Now, the occupancy rate exceeds 90%.
Religion
A list of major faiths & denominations with churches or synagogues in Etowah County.
Community Organizations
A list of numerous special-interest groups in Etowah County.
Communications
Newspapers
The Gadsden Times (daily)
www.gadsdentimes.com
