Best Neighborhoods in Opelika, Alabama for Auburn University Faculty and Staff
Best neighborhoods in Opelika, Alabama for Auburn University faculty and staff are some of the most requested relocation searches I receive each year. Whether you’re joining Auburn University as a professor, administrator, researcher, or staff member, choosing the right neighborhood is just as important as choosing the right home.
Many Auburn University employees discover they can enjoy a little more space, quieter neighborhoods, and excellent value in Opelika while still having a convenient commute to campus.
As an Auburn University graduate who’s lived in the area since 1988 and has been helping buyers and sellers for over 20 years, I enjoy helping faculty and staff find neighborhoods that fit both their commute and their lifestyle.
Why Many Auburn University Employees Choose Opelika
One of Opelika’s biggest advantages is balance.
You can often enjoy:
- More spacious homes
- Larger lots
- Quiet neighborhoods
- Convenient shopping
- Excellent restaurants
- Easy access to Interstate 85
- A comfortable drive to Auburn University (https://www.auburn.edu/)
For many faculty and staff, that combination makes Opelika an outstanding place to call home.
An Easy Commute to Campus
One of the biggest misconceptions is that living in Opelika means a long commute.
In reality, many Auburn University employees make the drive every day and appreciate how straightforward it is.
Depending on the neighborhood and your destination on campus, many commutes are only a short drive, allowing you to enjoy additional space without giving up convenience.
That’s one reason so many relocation clients ask me to show them homes in both Auburn and Opelika before making a final decision.
Historic Downtown Opelika
One of my favorite things about Opelika is its historic downtown.
Beautiful brick streets, locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, boutiques, community events, and seasonal celebrations give downtown a personality all its own.
During the Fourth of July, American flags line the streets, families gather to celebrate, and the patriotic atmosphere reminds you why so many people love calling this community home.
This year, as we celebrate America 250, Downtown Opelika feels especially festive with neighbors, visitors, and local businesses coming together to celebrate Independence Day.
Community Makes the Difference
When buyers relocate to the Auburn-Opelika area, they’re often searching for more than a house.
They’re looking for:
- Friendly neighborhoods
- Safe places to walk
- Convenient shopping
- Local restaurants
- Parks and recreation
- Community events
- Comfortable daily living
Opelika delivers all of those while maintaining its own unique character.
Life Outside of Work
After a busy day at Auburn University, many faculty and staff enjoy everything the area has to offer.
Popular activities include:
- Shopping at Tiger Town
- Exploring Downtown Opelika
- Dining at locally owned restaurants
- Visiting the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art
- Attending performances at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center
- Enjoying Auburn University sporting events at Jordan-Hare Stadium (https://auburntigers.com/jordan-hare-stadium)
- Relaxing with family and friends during community celebrations
Having so many activities nearby makes it easy to enjoy life outside the office.
Finding the Right Neighborhood
Every Auburn University employee has different priorities.
Some buyers want:
- The shortest possible commute
- Low-maintenance living
- Larger lots
- Quiet streets
- New construction
- Established neighborhoods
- Space for a home office
- Outdoor living areas
That’s why I spend time learning about each client’s goals before recommending neighborhoods.
The right neighborhood isn’t necessarily the closest one—it’s the one that fits your lifestyle.
A Client Story
I recently helped an Auburn University employee relocating from another state.
Initially, they assumed they wanted to purchase in Auburn.
After touring neighborhoods in both cities, they discovered Opelika offered exactly what they were looking for: a beautiful home, additional space, a comfortable commute, and a welcoming community.
Today, they’re enjoying the best of both worlds—easy access to campus while living in a neighborhood they absolutely love.
Quick Comparison
| Living in Opelika | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Convenient commute | Easy access to Auburn University |
| Larger homes | More space for many buyers |
| Quiet neighborhoods | Relaxed atmosphere |
| Historic downtown | Restaurants, shopping, community events |
| Great value | Excellent long-term lifestyle |
Quick Q&A
Do many Auburn University employees live in Opelika?
Yes. Many faculty and staff choose Opelika because it offers a combination of convenience, space, and value while remaining close to campus.
Should I only look in Auburn?
Not necessarily. Touring both Auburn and Opelika often helps buyers discover neighborhoods they hadn’t previously considered.
Can you help narrow down neighborhoods?
Absolutely. That’s one of the biggest advantages of working with a local REALTOR® who knows both communities well.
Why Work With Laura Sellers?
I’ve lived in the Auburn area since 1988, graduated from Auburn University, and have been helping buyers and sellers for over 20 years as an award-winning REALTOR® with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate.
If you’re relocating for Auburn University, I’d love to help you compare neighborhoods based on your commute, lifestyle, budget, and long-term goals.
Explore additional relocation resources at AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com or compare communities by visiting Auburn subdivisions (https://auburnopelikaalrealestate.com/auburn-al-subdivisons/).
Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Preferred Real Estate is the Official Real Estate Partner of the Auburn Tigers.
Let’s Find Your Perfect Fit
Whether you’re relocating across the country or simply moving closer to campus, I’ll help you find the neighborhood that feels like home.
Laura Sellers, REALTOR®
Award-Winning REALTOR® • Auburn University Graduate • Serving Auburn & Opelika Since 2005
📞 334-332-7263
🌐 AuburnOpelikaALRealEstate.com
💬 Comment “FACULTY” and I’ll share some of my favorite Opelika neighborhoods based on your commute and lifestyle.
Homes, y’all!
