Cullman, AL, United States

Capital City

Cullman may boast a population of 18,213, but its German heritage and small-town vibe come with a catch - it used to be a sundown town, where African Americans were not welcome after dark. The tax burden is heavy, and bureaucracy is a persistent headache, but the city has rebuilt since a devastating 2011 tornado. With a median age of 39.1 and 20.2% of residents over 65, Cullman is best suited for retirees and families seeking a quiet, homogeneous community.