Where is Alabama Located in the United States?
Alabama is a state located in the southeastern region of the United States, bordered by Tennessee to the north, Georgia to the east, Florida and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and Mississippi to the west. Known for its rich history and diverse geography, Alabama offers everything from mountains and forests to rivers and gulf coast beaches.
- State Name: Alabama
- Postal Abbreviation: AL
- Population: Approximately 4.9 million
- Area: Approximately 52,420 square miles
- Capital: Montgomery
- Largest City: Birmingham
- Statehood Year: 1819
- Time Zones: Central Standard Time (CST), Central Daylight Time (CDT) during daylight saving time
Bordering States
Tennessee
Tennessee, the state bordering Alabama to the north, is characterized by its diverse landscapes that range from the Appalachian Mountains in the east to the Mississippi River plains in the west. Nashville, the state’s capital, is known as the heart of the country music scene, featuring landmarks like the Grand Ole Opry and the Country Music Hall of Fame. The state’s largest city, Memphis, is famed for its influential strains of blues, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll, with the legendary Sun Studio and Elvis Presley’s Graceland residing here. Tennessee’s economy is buoyed by agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, making it a vital part of the southeastern U.S.
Georgia
Georgia, to the east of Alabama, is a gateway to the South and holds a pivotal place in both the historical and cultural makeup of the region. Atlanta, the state capital and largest city, plays a crucial role in the nation’s economy with its bustling airport, vibrant arts scene, and significant business district. The state’s landscape is varied, featuring mountains, farmlands, and coastal beaches, all contributing to its tourism appeal. Georgia is known for its peaches, pecans, and historical sites related to the civil rights movement, including the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site.
Florida
Florida borders Alabama to the south, with a small portion directly to the southeast. It’s famed for its extensive coastlines, theme parks, and warm climate. Cities like Miami offer vibrant nightlife, rich cultural diversity, and iconic beaches, making it a top tourist destination. Florida’s economy is heavily based on tourism, agriculture, and transportation, which benefits from the state’s vast coastline and harbors. The state is also known for the Everglades National Park, an expansive area of tropical wetlands that provides critical habitat for a variety of wildlife.
Mississippi
To the west of Alabama, Mississippi shares cultural ties with its neighbor, particularly in the realms of music and southern hospitality. Jackson, the capital and largest city, has several museums that highlight the state’s rich history from the civil rights movement to its musical heritage. Mississippi is characterized by its delta region, which has been influential in the development of blues music. The state’s economy is rooted in agriculture, textile production, and manufacturing, reflecting its historical reliance on these industries.
GPS Coordinates
The geographic positioning of Alabama is defined by its latitude and longitude coordinates, which are approximately 32.806671° N latitude and -86.791130° W longitude. These coordinates place Alabama firmly within the southeastern United States. The GPS coordinates are crucial for navigation and mapping, serving as a fundamental reference point for various applications from agriculture and defense to personal navigation systems used in vehicles and smartphones.
Levels of Elevation
Alabama’s terrain features a notable range in elevation from the Gulf Coastal Plain to the Appalachian Mountains in the northeast. The highest point in Alabama is Mount Cheaha, which reaches an elevation of 2,413 feet above sea level, offering stunning views and challenging hikes. Conversely, the state’s lowest point is at sea level where Alabama meets the Gulf of Mexico. This variation in elevation contributes to Alabama’s diverse ecosystems, which support a wide range of flora and fauna.
Most Extreme Points
Alabama’s geographic diversity is highlighted by its most extreme points:
- Northernmost Point: The northernmost part of Alabama is located in Waterloo, Lauderdale County, which lies directly on the Tennessee state line.
- Southernmost Point: At Alabama’s southern edge, the town of Gulf Shores faces the Gulf of Mexico, offering beautiful beaches and vibrant tourist attractions.
- Easternmost Point: Phenix City, located in Russell County, serves as Alabama’s easternmost point, adjacent to the Chattahoochee River, which forms the border with Georgia.
- Westernmost Point: The westernmost part of Alabama is found in the small town of Cuba, Sumter County, which lies close to the Mississippi state line.
Major Mountains
Alabama is home to part of the Appalachian Mountains, providing a scenic and topographically rich area in the northeastern part of the state. The most notable mountains include:
- Mount Cheaha: As the highest point in Alabama, Mount Cheaha is a prominent feature in the Talladega National Forest and is a popular destination for hiking and camping.
- Lookout Mountain: Extending from Alabama into Georgia and Tennessee, this mountain is known for its rich history, stunning vistas, and the famous “Lookout Mountain Flight Park” for hang gliding.
Major Rivers and Lakes
Alabama’s rivers and lakes are pivotal to its ecosystem, recreation, and economy:
- Alabama River: A significant waterway, this river flows from the confluence of the Coosa and Tallapoosa rivers in Montgomery, winding its way to the Mobile River.
- Tennessee River: This river cuts across the northern part of the state, providing critical water resources and recreational opportunities.
- Lake Guntersville: Alabama’s largest lake, located on the Tennessee River, is a hub for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
- Mobile Bay: A major Gulf Coast inlet, Mobile Bay is essential for maritime commerce, fishing, and serves as a gateway to the Gulf of Mexico.