Economic Development

Thank you for your interest in the City of Chelsea!

 For many reasons Chelsea is consistently ranked as one of the fastest growing cities in the State of Alabama.  As part of the Birmingham-Hoover MSA, Chelsea is conveniently situated approximately 10 miles southeast of Birmingham on the US Hwy 280 corridor, which provides access to the amenities of a metropolitan area from the comfort of a family friendly community.   

 Chelsea’s theme, Its All About Family, is consistently affirmed through the actions of its City leaders by investing in quality of life amenities sought by those looking to call Chelsea home.   Capital projects in recent years include a new community center, public library, fire station and youth sports facilities but City leaders are also committed to education as evidenced by the increase and dedication of a one cent sales tax for education.  The five schools located in Chelsea are part of the Shelby County School System but the City felt the desire to invest above and beyond taxes currently earmarked in an attempt to further support educational initiatives and technological advancements.  For these and many other reasons, Chelsea is a destination for families and continues to experience steady population growth year after year.  That trend is expected to continue with an additional 650 new homes projected by 2025.

 The City’s consistent population growth has resulted in demographics that may be appealing to companies considering a location in Chelsea.  With a median age of 38, owner occupied housing rate of 84% and more than 43% of residents having a bachelor or graduate degree, Chelsea represents an ideal environment for companies wishing to locate in or near a well educated, stable labor market.  Therefore, Chelsea wishes to capitalize on its location and citizenry by further expanding its economic base.   The City has purchased 15 acres easily accessible and visible from US Hwy 280 that will serve as Foothills Business Park and is poised to serve as an economic recruiting catalyst for Chelsea.

 Infrastructure Facts to Note:

  • 10 Miles to  I-459
  • 12 Miles to I-65
  • 23 Miles to I-20
  • Certain sites served by Norfolk Southern Railroad
  • Access to high speed broadband

 To aid in an initial assessment of the market, please utilize the links below to access materials that contain demographic data, housing projections, traffic counts and general information on growth occurring in the City.  Please note that mobile mapping data reflects that Chelsea serves as the retail trade area for the adjacent cities of Westover, Harpersville, Vincent, Wilsonville, Columbiana and many unincorporated areas of Shelby County and also contributes to Chelsea’s labor shed. 

Click here for Chelsea Industrial Sites/ Buildings

Click here for Retail Sites

For further assistance, please contact our economic development partners at 58 Inc.,   As the non-profit, economic development coalition for Shelby County, Alabama, 58 Inc. fully supports the City’s economic development efforts and is prepared to assist with site selection relative to retail, commercial and industrial development projects. Should you wish to call the City directly, you may reach out to Mayor Tony Picklesimer at TPicklesimer@CityOfChelsea.com or 205-678-8455.

Thanks again for your interest in Chelsea!