People love living in Irondale—here’s why

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You can live most anywhere and call it home, but how does that grow into something a little more meaningful—a community where you really belong?

It takes thoughtful city planning, easy access to conveniences and services—and then comes the fun stuff: events and cool stuff to do.

The City of Irondale takes that feeling of community to the next level. In fact, it’s hosted more than 250 events in the last five years. That’s about once a week where citizens are gathering around the park for movie nights, paddling down the Cahaba or hiking Ruffner Mountain or simply breaking bread (ok, a fried green tomato!) and sharing a friendly hello.

Irondale residents share their love for the city

Irondale recently celebrated their residents at I Love Irondale Day with an old-fashioned neighborhood block party. We checked it out and spoke to a few residents about why they love living here.

LaShonda Nichols and her family were eager to share their love of where they live:

“I love the diversity of Irondale. I love the community and how everyone welcomes you and comes together. The farmer’s market is my favorite, and I love volunteering around the community.”

LaShonda Nichols, Irondale resident

Nancy Gafford has lived in Irondale since January of 2000:

”I like living in Irondale because it’s low key. It’s wonderfully accessible to the highways that can take you anywhere you want to go. You’re able to find a home that is affordable. The people are friendly. I know all of my neighbors. It’s a small town feel with a big city right at your fingertips.”

Nancy Gafford, Irondale resident

Irondale is strengthening its public safety infrastructure with a brand new Fire Station #3, and the firefighters were happy to share the love:

“Our administration and our citizens take care of us very well—every part of Irondale, I love.”

John Bailey City of Irondale Firefighter

Irondale’s biggest champion: Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr.

Mayor Stewart has obviously been one of the city’s biggest champions. He’s been crucial for all of the exciting city changes we’ve previously outlined + all the fun activities we’ve shared.

“We build community by creating an environment where people can come and gather. We have achieved what this [I Love Irondale Day] was set out to do, to bring people together in a safe environment and allow them to be able to enjoy themselves.”

Irondale Mayor James D. Stewart Jr.

Lots of big changes are coming to Irondale, like the opening of the new Irondale library this fall, and residents are sharing their appreciation and excitement. Here are a few more shots of the fun and celebration we captured at the 2025 I Love Irondale Day:

Don’t Miss: City of Irondale’s Back to School Pep Rally—Aug. 1

Join Mayor James D. Stewart, Jr and the community for a pep rally to get back into the school spirit. Find free school supplies, prizes and more!

• When: Friday, August 1 | 5-7:30PM
• Where: Irondale City Hall, 101 20th St S in Irondale

What are some of your favorite things about Irondale? Let us know @bhamnow!

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