The Shoals | Nashville's Backyard

MUSIC ON THE WATER

THE SHOALS

The region we call “The Shoals” is actually a cluster of four Alabama cities spanning two counties, tucked right near the Tennessee line. Like Nashville, Muscle Shoals, Florence, Tuscumbia and Sheffield are Music Cities in their own right, and the perfect southern border to Nashville’s Big Back Yard.

Singing Heritage

Right on the banks of the Tennessee River, this area was once home to Native Americans who settled near the “singing river” -- so named for the sound of the shallow, treacherous rapids flowing over the rocky deposits called “shoals.” In the 1960s and 70s, the area was home to the music studios that produced some of the most revolutionary records of the era.

Legacy of Sound

Muscle Shoals Sound and Fame Studios recorded everyone from the Rolling Stones and Aretha Franklin to the Allman Brothers and Cher, and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Now-iconic local house bands brought a swirling mix of blues and country influence to the stars’ recordings, leaving a mark as the “Muscle Shoals Sound” and earning the Shoals its title as the Hit Recording Capital of the World. Music is still a driving force in the region, with both studios still welcoming national artists to record and live music punctuating every outing and event. The Shoals is an important slice of the Americana Music Triangle.

Small Cities, Big Heart

Life in the Shoals is “Southern Living at its Best,” with distinctive small-city experiences that attract transplants from across the country. People love Florence’s restored homes, quaint boutiques, award-winning restaurants and ten (that’s right, ten) historic districts. Tuscumbia’s Main Street is a delight; the town is also home to Ivy Green, museum and former home of Helen Keller. The Shoals’ sleepier cousin, Sheffield, offers a sweet cluster of historic homes and access to outdoor fun on Pickwick Lake; Muscle Shoals is a family-friendly community full of personality and opportunity.

Folks are flocking to the Shoals as visitors, and finding it easy to picture a life here. Opportunity, affordability, and creative spirit make residents out of guests every day.

Even currently, financial incentives are being offered to work remotely in The Shoals. Find out if you are eligible here.

THE SHOALS

At a Glance

Region including Muscle Shoals, Florence, Tuscumbia, and Sheffield
131 miles south of Nashville, TN
On the banks of the Tennessee River and Shoal Creek
Population 40,428 (Florence); 8,894 (Sheffield); 8,407 (Tuscumbia); 14,263 (Muscle Shoals)

Growing business communities
Schools: Lauderdale County Schools (Florence); Colbert County Schools (Tuscumbia, Sheffield, Muscle Shoals)
Nearest Hospital: Shoals Hospital, Helen Keller Hospital, North Alabama Medical Center
Airport: Northwest Alabama Regional Airport